Photos: No chickens, but plenty of fair critters

Gabi Linder touched a sheep.
Gabi Linder, 7, of Cottage Grove reached out to touch a sheep at the Minnesota State Fair on Thursday. She came to the fair to see the animals.
Courtney Perry for MPR News

The crowds are heading in, the 4Hers are showing animals (except chickens), a new lineup fair foods are cooking and the weather is perfect. The State Fair has begun.