What’s big, green, and laughs like Santa Claus? The Jolly Green Giant of course! We all know the lovable mascot from cans of corn and peas, so if you happen to be driving through Minnesota, check the life-size Jolly Green Giant statue out in person!
The Jolly Green Giant was created by the advertising firm Leo Burnett in the 1920s to serve as the spokesman for the Green Giant food company. To this day his likeness still appears in advertisements for their products. (Frozen broccoli in cheese sauce anyone?)
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Blue Earth, Minnesota celebrates the famed advertising icon in the form of a massive 55-foot fiberglass statue of the big green giant. The monument was built for $43,000 in 1978 to commemorate the linking of the east and west sections of Interstate 90. Paul Hedberg, the owner of a local radio station, pioneered the endeavor. He hosted a program called “Welcome Travelers” and would serve his guests canned vegetables from the local plant. Interviewees would often wish to see the green giant mascot himself, which sparked the idea for the roadside attraction.
The Green Giant Company took a vital role in the building of the giant statue, making sure he conformed to the ideal mold, especially since the giant had never before been seen from behind!
Now tourists can stop by and see the giant in his towering glory, from the front, sides, and behind.
Looking for more Minnesota roadside attractions? Just beside the Jolly Green Giant statue are some wooden cutouts of his pal Sprout and some farmers! And, close by, a fiberglass statue of Sprout hangs out at a local gas station. Also in the area, you can check out the Culvert Man in Nodine, Minnesota.
Where is the Jolly Green Giant statue in Minnesota?
Location: Green Giant Statue Park, 1126 Green Giant Ln, Blue Earth, MN 56013
Cost: Free to see.
Hours: Always Visible
Date: August 30, 2008
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