Minnesota State Fair attendance Thursday was less than half what it was two years ago, as rain and concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic made for an unusual opening day after a yearlong hiatus.

Just 61,983 people attended the 2021 fair's opening day, which normally draws upward of 100,000 visitors, according to attendance records. The most recent fair, in 2019, set an opening day record with 133,326 attendees. The previous year saw 122,695 attendees on opening day.

"We are grateful for those who were able to come out and support our exhibitors, performers, vendors, volunteers and hardworking staff who make this event an iconic part of Minnesota," fair officials said in a statement...