I look forward to the fair every year for one reason – the food. Any seasoned fair‑eater knows the drill: you need to take a full lap first. Get the lay of the land. See what’s new, what’s familiar, and what’s calling your name. The 2026 Isanti County Fair delivered once again, with more than 30 vendors spread across the grounds – each putting their own spin on classic Minnesota summer comfort. The staples showed up strong: mini donuts, cheese curds, corn dogs, and all the nostalgic favorites that simply belong at a July fair.
Big Sjo’s, the Neapolitan wood‑fired pizza crew that made the long haul from Paris, Texas, arrived with something special: authentic Texas brisket, smoked low and slow back home and featured across their menu. Their signature creation, the Rattlesnake Bite pizza, layers brisket, bacon, pickled jalapeños, mozzarella, and a swirl of BBQ sauce over a house‑made roasted‑garlic white base. It’s the kind of pizza that stops you mid‑stride. And Big Sjo’s didn’t stop there. Every fair has a sleeper hit, and this year it came from the same Texas team: Browned Butter Cannolis made with powdered sugar, cream cheese, heavy cream, and vanilla – absolutely worth the stop if you’re a cannoli fan. Other crowd favorites rounded out the evening…
- Philly Cheesesteak Wontons from Wonton Creations
- Mexican Street Corn from Tacos El Rancho
- Egg Rolls from Quashi Cuisine
- Cheese Curds from Blue Loon Concessions
- Açaí Bowls from Cloud 9 Energy Bowls
- All the drinks from Sota Girls
That’s far from the full lineup of great fair food—just the standout favorites our group managed to try. And because fair food adds up fast, here’s a pro tip: the Lions Club trailer continues to serve some of the most reasonably priced meals on the grounds. Solid food, great people, great value.
With vendors offering everything from classic Minnesota comfort to unexpected out‑of‑state flavor, the 2026 Isanti County Fair proved once again why it’s one of the most anticipated summer events we’ve got. I’ll leave you with photos of each vendor to help you strategize.
