As if COVID-19 ruining the Great Minnesota Get-Together wasn't bad enough, opportunists are now ruining the fair's alternative summer spectacular with outrageously over-priced tickets.

Last Friday, tickets for the Minnesota State Fair's alternative event Food Parade went on sale. If you had trouble purchasing a ticket -- like our morning show did -- that's because they sold out in 2.5 hours.

"Tickets for the first-ever Minnesota State Fair Food Parade are currently sold out," the Minnesota State Fair posted online. "Our website and ticketing service experienced unprecedented volume; in 2½ hours, we reached our capacity of 19,000 vehicle tickets sold for this 13-day historic event."

If you think everyone who bought a ticket intended to use it to enjoy the food parade for themselves, however, think again. In the few days since going on sale, tickets have begun popping up for resale on sites like Craiglist by opportunists looking for some quick, easy cash. Tickets originally going for $20 on Etix are now going for as high as $250 elsewhere. Bring Me the News reports that at one time they were even as high as $500.

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Craigslist
Craigslist
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Obviously, hopeful visitors to the food parade are not happy.

"And how sad some jerks bought tix and are selling them on Craigslist for $100 = such greedy people," said Laura Fremont Traeger in the Minnesota State Fair's comment section. Meanwhile, one good Samaritan on Craigslist is warning anyone considering buying a ticket there.

"Be VERY careful when buying the MN State Fair Food Parade tickets! You have no idea if they are scamming you! They could sell the same ticket to 10 people! Or they could have you Venmo/Paypal or Cash App the money and not send you anything!! BUYER BEWARE!"

Craiglist
Craiglist
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Hosted for the first time ever, the food parade is the Minnesota State Fair's alternative event this year for those looking to get their fair food fix. Following a 1.5 mile route, vehicles will parade through the fairgrounds past 16 different food vendors, entertainment, trivia contest and other activities planned. The dates are Aug. 20-23, 27-30 and Sept. 3-7.

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