Year after year, millions of people tune in on a Sunday to watch the Super Bowl, and this year it was finally in our backyard. The weeks leading up to Super Bowl 52 in Minneapolis have been nothing but remarkable. Countless events and experiences brought football fans, Minnesotans, and those who traveled here for the big game, together. From concerts, pop-up stands on Nicollet Mall, kids football activities and more, there was something for everyone. The last time the Super Bowl took place in Minnesota was in 1992, making this year one to remember. 

In the Convention Center, the Super Bowl Experience let kids get inside the game with football obstacle courses, NFL virtual reality, free autographs from players, the ability to take a photo with the Vince Lombardi Trophy, and more. This not only made it an entertaining experience for the little ones, but also for the parents who were excited about the big game being so close and wanted to participate in the encouraging events. Downtown Minneapolis held Super Bowl Live, a 10-day festival on Nicollet Mall, that showcased Minnesota’s brand of the Bold North. Another new adventure for those of all ages was ziplining across the Mississippi River. Over 10,000 people climbed the 15 stories to get to the top to begin this 30-second event over the frozen water. And for the people who were looking for some more entertainment, there were concerts each day for a week leading up to the Super Bowl. A few well-known names who made an appearance were Imagine Dragons, The Chainsmokers, Snoop Dogg, G-Eazy, Florida Georgia Line, and DJ Khaled.

Although it was one of the coldest places for the Super Bowl, Minnesota was proud to host Super Bowl LII. No matter the age, the place you were from, or who you were with, Minneapolis was a welcoming place for all and was overflowing with fans and families trying to be a part of the experience. Not only was the building and opening of the U.S. Bank Stadium in 2016 an amazing new add-on to our state, but it was even more significant to have it hold the 2018 Super Bowl game, which Minnesotans could not be more grateful for.