Minnesotans celebrate Prince with show of purple at the State Fair

"Unite in Purple" features music, dancing and a special pyrotechnic Prince tribute.

August 28, 2016 at 2:26PM
Prince fans were easy to find Friday night at the Minnesota State Fair.
Prince fans were easy to find Friday night at the Minnesota State Fair. (Vince Tuss — Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

The Great Minnesota Get Together had a decidedly purple tint on Friday, officially designated "Unite in Purple" day at the Minnesota State Fair.

The official lineup of events kicked off at 5 p.m., but all day fans could be seen sporting purple T-shirts, hats, buttons -- even eye shadow -- in honor of Prince, the pop superstar and Minneapolis native who died of an overdose in April at Paisley Park.

Some vendors joined in, offering purple sno cones, purple cheese curds and whipped cream.

Prince also made several appearances in the crop art category.

Events included giveaways, music, a dance party and a fireworks tribute set to Prince music at the Grandstand.

A view of the button being handed out at the Minnesota State Fair.
A view of the button being handed out at the Minnesota State Fair. (Vince Tuss — Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
Buttons and glow bracelets were being passed out as part of the fair's Prince celebration Friday.
Buttons and glow bracelets were being passed out as part of the fair's Prince celebration Friday. (Vince Tuss — Star Tribune/The Minnesota Star Tribune)
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