If we may, an etiquette guide to the State Fair

Now that the Minnesota State Fair is in full swing, we know many fairgoers are probably wondering: Is my behavior at the Great Minnesota Get-Together consistent with the highest standards of polite society?

When so many people from all walks of life are bumping into each other, good manners and civility are more important than ever.

To help those concerned about making a fair faux pas at the Moo Booth or who shrink at causing comment or a raised eyebrow and pursed lip at the Giant Slide, we consulted an etiquette expert on proper decorum and comportment at the fair.

Nicki Black is an etiquette enthusiast who has trained at the Protocol School of Palm Beach. She’s the owner of Polished and Beyond, a Plymouth-based company that teaches etiquette skills to adults, kids and business people.

Here are some suggestions on how to eat a corn dog, how to navigate a crowded street and how to share a bench with strangers, in a recent interview edited for length and clarity.

Q: The State Fair is a pretty casual event. Is etiquette important at the State Fair?

A: I think etiquette is important, honestly, wherever we go. What’s at the heart of etiquette is having an awareness of people who are around you. Etiquette isn’t about rigid rules — it’s about being mindful of those around us and showing respect and kindness. Even at a bustling State Fair, a little courtesy can make a big difference. Crowds flow more easily, interactions are friendlier, and everyone enjoys themselves. Remember, everyone is there to have a great time!

A: This is the perfect time to go with the flow. Pay attention to the direction of the crowd, move with it, and avoid stopping in the middle. If you need to pause, step to the side. Be mindful not to walk several people across in a way that blocks the path for others. And always give extra space and patience to those using wheelchairs, strollers or scooters. I think it’s really important to have an awareness of what’s going on around you and just showing some kindness if the people in front of you are walking too slow because they’re trying to look at something.

Q: There are also lots of lines at the State Fair. Lining up to get chocolate chip cookies. Lining up to look at crop art. What should you do if someone cuts in front of you?

A: In a crowd, it’s easy for someone to accidentally step into the wrong spot. Other times, it’s deliberate. Either way, saying politely and calmly, “Excuse me, the line actually starts back there,” usually does the trick. If they don’t move or things get tense, it’s best to just let it go.

Q: Space on a park bench is often at a premium at the fair. If someone is sitting at one end of a bench, is it OK to park yourself at the other end? Should you ask first?

A: If the bench appears to be open, it’s OK to sit. As a courtesy though, I recommend asking the person sitting there, “Would you mind if I sit here?”

A: Well, it is the type of food that you hold by the stick. You can eat it right off the stick. You don’t need to cut it up. You don’t need to put it on a plate. You don’t need to hold your pinkie out. You can still eat it in a presentable way. Chew with your mouth closed. That’s very important. It’s a big one for kids and grown-ups, I’m telling you.

Q: If you’re eating a really gooey Pizza Cheese Curd Taco or Hot Honey Jalapeño Popper Donuts, is it OK to lick your fingers afterwards?

A: Messy hands are part of the experience when you’re enjoying the food delights of the fair. But licking your fingers can make others uneasy, especially if you’re sharing food. Instead, keep napkins or wipes handy so you can easily clean up. My State Fair bag is loaded with wipes!

Q: Advice on how to interact with employees at concessions? I’ve heard of rude encounters from impatient people.

A: Treating our customer service people with the kindness they deserve is incredibly important. Probably, a lot of us have at some point in our lives worked in customer service, and it is not easy. We treat everyone with the kind of kindness and respect that we would want. It’s those polite words like saying “please” when we ask for anything. “Please” and “thank you” are the big ones. So is “excuse me.” Something small and quick can really make a huge impact. It shows that we are respectful of other people.

A: Absolutely. This just really goes back to the heart of etiquette, which is thinking about the people who are around you. There are people outside of us who are affected by what we say and what we do.

Q: We’re outside most of the time at the fair, so I’m assuming we don’t have to use our indoor voices. But is it OK to scream your head off on a Midway ride?

A: Yes, absolutely! I think screaming comes with the territory of going on rides. I’m right there with you. Once off a ride, though, it’s best to dial back the volume.

Q: Should you limit public displays of affection to the Ye Old Mill ride?

A: A quick kiss on the Ye Old Mill ride is part of its charm. It is known as the “Tunnel of Love” after all. But over-the-top displays of affection can feel out of place at the fair, whether you’re in the tunnel or out among the crowds.

A: The fair is a casual event, so casual clothing is expected. Overly revealing or potentially offensive clothing, though, can make others uncomfortable and may bring unwanted attention. The key is to choose something comfortable that makes you feel confident while still showing respect for fellow fairgoers.

Q: So no T-shirts with ribald sayings?

A: Clothing with rude or offensive language is sure to catch the attention of other fairgoers. A few may find it amusing, but it will make most people uncomfortable. A shirt that’s fun and lighthearted, without being offensive or inappropriate, is a better way to go.

Q: Finally, if it’s hot, can a man walk around without a shirt on?