Nuri Ducassi, Star Tribune
This little piggy: … went to the fair, and then to market. Some pigs, cows, goats, rabbits or chickens have that winning look and are bound for State Fair greatness. But many a beloved Pekin duck, Rambouillet lamb, Duroc hog and brown Swiss cow has left the barn with no purple ribbon to show for their long days in the dusty heat of the animal barns, patted and prodded by city folk and sticky-fingered kids. And their young owners also face long days at "The Cow and Her Contributions to Mankind" exhibit (1928), the milking booth, the Miracle of Birth barn and many others, followed by nights in a barn or a trailer. Yet they compete hard to get there. Last year, 4-H kids from 87 counties brought nearly 3,000 animals to the fair. "It's a lifestyle, not just a hobby," said 4-Her Emily Brual.

Sunday Sept. 6

Fact Frenzy: Pop quiz! Do you know your state history? We'll be judge of that. Your last chance to play along and win fabulous prizes and bragging rights. 9:30 a.m.

Grandstand/Molly Maher: A multitalented force on the Twin Cities music scene, this singer/songwriter just released the alluringly organic album "Follow." See her artful performance, complete with spin painting, starting at noon.

Food Guide: Missing your State Fair bucket of cookies? Here are cookie options from around the Twin Cities that offer a sweet replacement.

Conversations: Timberwolves President Gersson Rosas talks with Mike Rand about landing the No. 1 pick and what's next.