Minnessentials stories
What are the foods, sights, activities and rituals that make Minnesota what it is? Introducing Minnessentials, an occasional series that plunges into the culture of our state with the help of Star Tribune readers. Have a favorite? Tell us at minnessentials@startribune.com or tweet at reporter @SharynJackson.
At 75, a Minnesota Christmas tree farmer isn't slowing down
Choosing the right tree out of row upon row of needle-laden green pyramids is a quintessential holiday custom, especially in Minnesota. The magic of the season keeps this 75-year-old Christmas tree farmer growing.
Variety
In Minnesota, booya is more than just a stew
For a passionate segment of the state's population, booya is a quintessential fall tradition, a community gathering and a childhood memory all centered on a stew of epic proportions.
Variety
Work is sweet for lucky few at Sweet Martha's Cookie Jar
For a lucky group of workers, nothing is better than the 12 days spent filling pails for those hungering for a State Fair tradition.
Variety
Bait shops are marketplaces, meeting spaces for Minnesotans
With shared stories, tips and a sense of community, bait shops are the Minnesota version of barbershops.
Latest Columns
Most Read
- Army pulls recruiting ads after Jonathan Majors' arrest • Celebrities
- The 5 best things our food writers ate and drank in the Twin Cities area this week • Eat & Drink
- Ukrainian family adapts to U.S. thanks to 'a very deep part of Minnesota culture'
- Looking for something to do this spring? 60 top picks in Twin Cities entertainment
- Review: Al Franken was good enough, smart enough as host of 'The Daily Show' • TV & Media