Mustard Beer? The 2024 Minnesota State Fair new beer and specialty sip list is out, and one of the major innovators in the new beer space has decided to largely sit it out. Ball Park Cafe gave me a glimpse into their mindset this year, deciding to play the hits of the most popular beers they’ve had, while letting other people play the novelty/new game.
“There were 65 new beverages at the 2023 fair. That’s a lot. A lot, a lot. We asked: ‘How can we stay true to our goal of delivering our state’s Blue Ribbon Best, with that much turnover?'” asked Dan Theisen, owner of Ball Park Cafe. Ball Park brought Mini Donut Beer to the fair, and they also brought a lot of beers that have become core offerings for their respective breweries. It’s a gamble, as so many people chase the new stuff at the fair. But Theisen didn’t want to put something mediocre on tap just for the sake of being on the new list.
“And at the end of the day, doesn’t that matter more than being new?” he asked.
We’ll see! Ball Park isn’t totally sitting this thing out, they are introducing boozy frozen drinks for the first time—a frozen mango/citrus/rum-flavored drink and a frozen “daquiri” (the fair doesn’t allow booze, so boozy flavors are how this works).
As for the other drinks, frozen slushies are here to stay. I count 15. Plus, LOTS more cider options, lots of versions of cocktails (since the fair doesn’t allow hard alcohol, you’ll see a bloody mary riff, a manhattan riff, etc.), and just one NA beer option thanks to the Minnesota Brewers Guild. I organized the fair’s list into categories—as you’ll see in the descriptions, there are some that defy categorization. I did my best! Here’s the list, with descriptions provided by the Minnesota State Fair.
SLUSHIES
Agua Fresca Hard Slushie
A refreshing frozen blend of watermelon and mint, this agua fresca-inspired slushie will keep you cool on hot summer days. Brewed in Minneapolis by Indeed Brewing Co. At LuLu’s Public House
Baja Breeze Slushie
A tropical whirlwind of mango, pineapple, and lime. Enjoy a frozen fruity flavor giving refreshing beach vibes. 6% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At Shanghai Henri’s, located at the International Bazaar
Boombox Freeze
A frozen seltzer with tropical fruit and sweet strawberry flavors. Call it a mixtape in your mouth! 5% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Bauhaus Brew Labs. At The Blue Barn
Cherry Lime Freeze
Get your freeze on with this delicious, sweet, and flavorful slushie made with Quirk seltzer and a fruity and floral mix of flavors including cherry blossom and lime and cherry limeade. 4% ABV. Brewed by Boulevard Beverage Co. At Mancini’s al Fresco
Frozen Mango Tango
A burst of mango, citrus, and dark rum-inspired flavors. Feeling bold? Try it mixed with Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri for a Ball Park Vice. 6% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At Ball Park Cafe
Frozen Piña Colada
A blend of natural pineapple, real coconut cream, and rum flavors combine in this classic tropical frozen cocktail-inspired seltzer slushie for the ultimate island escape. 6% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At Cafe Caribe
Frozen Spicy Pineapple Margarita
Spice things up with this frozen cocktail-inspired slushie made with pineapple and tequila flavors, Proper Bartender Habanero Bitters, and topped with Tajín seasoning. 6% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At Cafe Caribe
Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri
This strawberry and rum-flavored frozen cocktail-inspired drink is made with real fruit juice. Set sail, this is a vacation in a cup. PRO TIP: Get it mixed with Frozen Mango Tango for our version of a Ball Park Vice. 6% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At Ball Park Cafe
Mai Tai Slushie
Blending tropical orange, pineapple, and rum flavor into a refreshing frozen drink, escape to paradise with this hard slushie. 6% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At LuLu’s Public House
Mudslide Slushie
A luscious and creamy mudslide-inspired slushie. Filled with flavors of coffee, Irish cream, and heavy cream. This lactose-free boozy milkshake is served with an edible straw. 6% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At Coasters
Pink Lady Lemonade
Take a delightful sip down memory lane with a vibrant and refreshing spin on a beloved summertime treat, served slushie-style. 6% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At Ragin Cajun
Red Devil Hurricane
This vibrant passion fruit, lime, and rum-flavored hard slushie will transport you to the streets of New Orleans with every icy sip. 6% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At Ragin Cajun
S’more Than A Feeling Slushie
Combining the flavors of the traditional campfire treat, this drink gives notes of toasted marshmallows, rich chocolate, and graham cracker crunch. Flavors are fused together into a frozen seltzer-based slushie for a refreshing sense of nostalgia bringing an outdoor adventure to every sip. 5% ABV. Brewed in St. Paul by Urban Growler Brewing. At Swine & Spuds, located in the Warner Coliseum
Tutti Frutti Bubblegum Hard Slushy
Experience a unique fusion of nostalgia and refreshment with this blend of bubblegum and vibrant fruity notes. This slushy delivers a playful and memorable taste that is perfectly balanced and refreshingly light. Plus, every slushy comes garnished with bubblegum—enjoy the bubbly fun! 6% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At Andy’s Grille
Watermelon Crush
Kickstart your fair day with a lively blend of refreshing watermelon, citrus, and Red Bull Red. This seltzer-based slushie will keep you cool and caffeinated. 5% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At O’Gara’s at the Fair
BEER
Attack of the Quack!
Let your tastebuds embark on an epic quest with this purple punch-inspired kettle sour. Comes with a Viking souvenir rubber ducky ready to conquer the high seas, and perhaps football season! 4.5% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Surly Brewing Co. At The Hideaway Speakeasy
Barn Storm
A tropical sour ale with an infusion of jalapeño. Enjoy this blend of fruit and spice for a refreshing kick. 4.8% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Pryes Brewing Co. At The Blue Barn
Blackberry Limeade Lager
Fruity with an edge, Blackberry Limeade Lager is subtly sweet with a twist of tart citrus. 5.2% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Indeed Brewing Co. At Dino’s Gyros
Blueberry Pancake Lager
This fun, breakfast-inspired brew perfectly combines the zing of tart blueberries with a maple sweetness and a smooth malty finish. Features playful notes of caramel, brown sugar, and blueberry. 4.9% ABV. 10 IBUs. Brewed in Cold Spring, Minnesota, by Third Street Brewhouse. At Cafe Caribe
Cakewalk Berry Bliss Lager
A taste of fresh strawberries, creamy vanilla, and sweet cake flavors all in one lager. It’s a perfect sippable treat. 4.9% ABV. Brewed in Cold Spring, Minnesota, by Third Street Brewhouse. At Coasters
Chocobananas Wheat Ale
A hearty wheat ale with notes of creamy chocolate and banana flavors. Try it out for a drinkable twist on the classic dessert duo. 4.8% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by The Freehouse. At The Blue Barn
Firecracker Cream Ale
Erupting with pops of tart raspberries and a hint of lime, this cream ale is a flavor bomb in the heart of summer. 5.5% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Indeed Brewing Co. At LuLu’s Public House
Cinnamon Lemoncello Cake’d Up
Delivering delicious cinnamon and lemon flavors that are sweet, tangy, and refreshing. This beer embodies the rich flavors and traditions of Italy in every sip. 5% ABV. Brewed in North Mankato, Minnesota, by Mankato Brewery. At The Hangar
Golden Spike Ale
This western-inspired tasty golden ale is crafted with prickly pear and mezcal flavors. Saddle up! 5% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At Frontier Bar
Grilled Pineapple Lager
Charred to perfection, this lager boasts a caramelized flavor atop its juicy pineapple base. 5.2% ABV. 10 IBUs. Brewed in Minneapolis by Indeed Brewing Co. At Mancini’s al Fresco
Hazy Days IPA
The late summer morning haze that settles over the Mighty Midway meets its match with this IPA. Filled with robust, juicy notes of pineapple and tropical fruit and haze for, well, days. 7.2% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Surly Brewing Co. At LuLu’s Public House
A Hazy Shade
This silky New Zealand Hazy IPA has smooth notes of tropical fruits including mango, passion fruit, guava, and lime. Enjoy in the shade of a beautiful Minnesota summer day. 6% ABV. 35 IBU. Brewed in St. Paul by Dual Citizen Brewing Co. in collaboration with The Freehouse. At The Blue Barn
Iced Tea Lemonade Blonde Ale
A refreshing cream ale inspired by the legendary Arnold Palmer beverage. This unique brew combines the crispness of a classic cream ale with the zesty tang of lemonade and the classic taste of iced tea. Cheers to embracing the bright side of life with every refreshing gulp. 4.2% ABV. Brewed in Eagan by Bald Man Brewing. At Coasters
Imperial Lager
A medium-bodied, golden lager with the perfect blend of sweet malty flavor and fruity-floral hop aroma. This beer packs a punch, so grab your State Fair favorite foods and enjoy the people watching! 7.8% ABV. Brewed in New Ulm, Minnesota, by August Schell Brewing Co. At LuLu’s Public House
“The Lingonburg” – Lingonberry Shandy
This Minnesota aviation-inspired delight is a refreshing lingonberry-flavored shandy that’s just the right mix of tart, sweet, and a hint of pink—perfect for your high-flying taste buds. It’s light enough to keep you grounded while still giving your spirits a lift. Brewed in Excelsior by Excelsior Brewing Co. At The Hangar
Mustard Stain IPA
Inspired by the perfect fair-food condiment, this mustard beer is a full-bodied, hop-forward, Session IPA spiced with mustard seeds. Sit back and enjoy this beer while watching a horse or livestock show. 4.5% ABV. Brewed in Hastings, Minnesota, by Spiral Brewery. At Aldo’s Burgers, Sabino’s Pizza Pies, Snack House, and Swine & Spuds, located in the Warner Coliseum
Pineapple Party
Delight your senses with this light and refreshing blonde ale, bursting with juicy pineapple notes. A vibrant fusion where tropical meets traditional. 4.7% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At LuLu’s Public House
Purple Maize
A refreshing and light-bodied Mexican-style lager brewed with purple corn, featuring notes of honey and biscuit. This is a perfect drink to accompany your favorite fair foods. 4.6% ABV. Brewed in St. Paul by Summit Brewing Co. At Shanghai Henri’s
Purple Reign IPA
This vivid purple double dry-hopped cold IPA uses 100% Minnesota malt as a backbone for a “princely” amount of hops lending fruit, fresh pineapple, and nectarine notes. 5.5% ABV. Brewed in Roseville by Bent Brewstillery. At Dino’s Gyros
Sour Batch Fizz
A tasty sour beer with a little extra fizz. Choose from three flavors: raspberry, watermelon, or woodruff. A fun take on traditional-flavored sour beers, done as it is in Germany. 5% ABV. Brewed in New Ulm, Minnesota, by August Schell Brewing Co. At LuLu’s Public House
Strawberry Guava Miraculum
Add an extra twist to your usual IPA. Amp up your beer with a bold burst of strawberry and guava. This fruited drink reinvents the signature Miraculum Midwest IPA. 6.4% ABV. 75 IBUs. Brewed in Minneapolis by Pryes Brewing Co. At O’Gara’s at the Fair
Sweet Clementine Beer
A flavorful and aromatic light lager brewed with clementines, resulting in a bright and citrus-forward brew. Zesty, tangy, and fruity notes, garnished with a candy peach ring. 4.2% ABV. Brewed in Cold Spring, Minnesota, by Third Street Brewhouse. At Giggles’ Campfire Grill
Touchy Peely
This summer sensation combines the crisp, refreshing taste of a traditional kölsch with a bright burst of lemony citrus—a tangy and enticing ale perfect for hot summer days. 4.4% ABV. Brewed in St. Paul by Modist Brewing. At LuLu’s Public House
Triple Berry Cream Ale
A triple threat of flavors exploding with bright, vibrant, and fresh fruitiness from a blend of strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry. This crisp, berry-licious cream ale will dance onto your tastebuds. 5% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Fulton Brewing. At Frontier Bar, located on the south side of Carnes Avenue between Liggett and Nelson streets
Tropical Fruit Smoothy IPA
The State Fair has cute pink piglets, the neon pink glow of Mighty Midway, and now pink beer! This colorful flavor-blast beer comes with a wild blend of Strata hops, luscious marshmallows, and a mix of tropical fruit flavor that’ll take your taste buds to paradise! 7.1% ABV. 41 IBUs. Brewed in Minneapolis by Pryes Brewing Co. At Andy’s Grille
CIDERS
Apple Pie Hazy Cider
A delightful fusion of fresh-pressed apples and warm pie spices for a beautifully balanced cider. Unleash the taste of autumn! Brewed in Duluth by Wild State Cider. At The Blue Barn
Blackberry Breeze Cider
Smooth, fruity notes of blackberry cider, while relaxation meets fruity perfection. 5.2% ABV. Brewed in Duluth by Wild State Cider. At Dino’s Gyros
Blood Orange Mimosa Cider
Dry champagne-like cider sweetened with freshly pressed blood orange juice, a refreshing drink perfect for any time of day. 6.2% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Sociable Cider Werks. At LuLu’s Public House
Piña Ciderlada
A blend of freshly pressed apples fermented dry, then sweetened with pineapple juice and coconut cream. Garnished with a pineapple and cherry skewer. Enjoy the beach in a glass! 5.9% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Sociable Cider Werks. At Giggles’ Campfire Grill
Prickly Pear Passion Fruit Cider
Juicy and bursting with tropical fruit, this refreshing cider is crafted with fresh-pressed apples, bright prickly pear, and tart, zingy passion fruit flavor. 5.5% ABV. Brewed in Duluth by Wild State Cider. At O’Gara’s at the Fair
Sparkling Pearsecco
A delightful pear cider inspired by the effervescent charm of Italian sparkling wines. Time for a bubbly toast! 5.5% ABV. Brewed in Spring Valley, Minnesota, by Loon Juice Cider Company. At Mancini’s al Fresco
Strawberry Rhubarb Crumble
Freshly pressed apples fermented dry, then sweetened with rhubarb, strawberry juice, blackstrap molasses, and lactose sugars. This Minnesota classic treat is making its cider-style State Fair debut. 5.9% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Sociable Cider Werks. At LuLu’s Public House
WINE + MEAD
Black Currant Mead
This sessionable mead is made of honey from Midwestern pollinators, fermented dry, then sweetened with freshly pressed black currant juice. 6% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Sociable Cider Werks. At LuLu’s Public House
Lake Dayz Spritz
This refreshing tropical wine spritz is made from Minnesota-grown grapes with a hint of tropical fruit and light bubbles. Cheers! 7% ABV. Wine made in Scandia, Minnesota, by Rustic Roots Winery and Lift Bridge Brewing Co., Stillwater. At O’Gara’s at the Fair
Lemon Bellini
A Minnesota-made sparkling Edelweiss wine made with fresh pureed lemons. A citrus-forward refreshing drink perfect for sipping on a scenic fair day. Enjoy solo or in a Bellini Flight with orange, lemon, and peach. 12% ABV. Wine made in Cannon River, Minnesota, by Cannon River Winery. At Mancini’s al Fresco
Orange Bellini
A citrusy delight of Minnesota-made sparkling Edelweiss wine, perfectly blended with fresh pureed oranges. Indulge in its refreshing zest, solo, or in a Bellini Flight with a trio of orange, lemon and peach. 12% ABV. Brewed in Cannon River, Minnesota, by Cannon River Winery. At Mancini’s al Fresco
Popping Good Wine
Experience a burst of flavors with a blend of red and sparkling white wine, enhanced with a surprising popping candy twist. Give your classic glass of wine a pop of surprise! 8% ABV. Brewed in Cannon River, Minnesota, by Cannon River Winery. At Coasters
Steph’s Summer Spritzer
Unwind with a divine blend of white wine, peaches, mangos, and citrus. Light, sweet, and incredibly refreshing. 6.3% ABV. Wine made in Scandia, Minnesota, by Rustic Roots Winery. At The Blue Barn
SELTZERS
Blackberry Mojito Hard Seltzer
A delicious cocktail-inspired sugar-free Bolo Hard Seltzer, featuring notes of blackberry, lime, mint, and sweet honey with a lovely purple hue. Your tropical escape awaits! 5% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Bauhaus Brew Labs. At Cafe Caribe
Bloody Mary
Malt alcohol base mixed with award-winning Bloody Mary mix by Lovejoy. 6% ABV. Brewed in Minneapolis by Sociable Cider Werks. At Shanghai Henri’s
Chelsey’s Southern Sipper
A symphony of smooth bourbon flavor, juicy peaches, and sweet tea. A dose of southern hospitality in every sip. Garnished with a candy peach ring. 5% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At RC’s BBQ
Grumpy Old Manhattan
Take a step inside the speakeasy and enjoy this refreshing malt-based take on a classic cocktail, crafted with flavors of aged bourbon and cherry. Served with a smoky surprise. 7% ABV. Brewed in Stillwater by Lift Bridge Brewing Co. At The Hideaway Speakeasy
Imperial Mai Tai Seltzer
A sweet, fruity, tart, and sparkling lower-calorie and lower-carb seltzer. Enjoy solo or in a Tropical Escape Seltzer Flight with Passion Fruit Daiquiri and Watermelon Hard Candy. 8% ABV. Brewed in Roseville by Bent Brewstillery. At Dino’s Gyros
Lingonberry Blast
A burst of vibrant flavor that’s both tart and subtly sweet, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to your State Fair experience. It is sure to delight your taste buds—solo or paired with delicious fair eats. 5% ABV. Brewed in North Mankato, Minnesota, by Mankato Brewery. At The Hangar
Passion Fruit Daiquiri Seltzer
Citrusy hints of melon, pineapple, and kiwi, sure to transport you back to a sunset stroll on the beach. Sweet and tart lower-calorie and lower-carb seltzer. Enjoy solo or in a Tropical Escape Seltzer Flight with Imperial Mai Tai and Watermelon Hard Candy. 5% ABV. Brewed in Roseville by Bent Brewstillery. At Dino’s Gyros
Tangerine Sunset Mojito
This refreshing malt-based non-distilled mojito bursts with citrusy tangerine that dances harmoniously with the invigorating bite of fresh mint leaves. 6% ABV. Brewed in New Ulm, Minnesota, by August Schell Brewing Co. in collaboration with Tattersall Distilling, Minneapolis. At LuLu’s Public House
Watermelon Hard Candy Seltzer
Starting sour and finishing sweet, this watermelon-flavored hard candy-inspired seltzer is a throwback to the bike-riding days visiting the corner convenience store. Order solo or in a Tropical Escape Seltzer Flight with Passion Fruit Daiquiri and Imperial Mai Tai. 5% ABV. Brewed in Roseville by Bent Brewstillery. At Dino’s Gyros
NONALCOHOLIC
NA Rotating Brews
Featuring a variety of nonalcoholic brews, this brand-new exclusive tap line is focused solely on alcohol-free craft beer, cider, and seltzers. Stop by for a glass or a flight of specialty Minnesota-made drinks from a number of local breweries, rotating daily. Note: 21+ only, photo ID required. At Minnesota Craft Brewers Guild, located in the Agriculture Horticulture Building, west side
