A beloved brand is making its long-awaited comeback to Minnesota this Wednesday as Krispy Kreme opens its new Fridley location at 8 a.m.
Excitement has been building for days. Fans began camping outside the store Tuesday night, some bringing blankets, lawn chairs, and even an ice fishing house to stay comfortable through the night. One group kept warm by starting a bonfire.
For many, it wasn’t just about the doughnuts — it was about being part of the moment.
“The dad lore,” said Judah from Fridley. “We want to tell our kids when we drive by this later, ‘We camped out here overnight, and we were one of the first in line.’”
This marks Krispy Kreme’s first store in Minnesota since 2008, and anticipation has been sky-high.
“People just love this brand,” said Patrick McIntyre of Krispy Kreme. “Everywhere you go in Minnesota, people keep asking, ‘When’s Krispy Kreme opening? We can’t wait!’”
The new store is located at 5696 University Avenue, and the city has made preparations for the expected crowds. While there won’t be any road closures, police will be stationed on 57th Avenue Northeast to help manage traffic. Drivers will be directed to enter the business from 57th Avenue near Caribou Coffee, and exit by turning right onto 57th.
According to the company’s CEO, fans have been asking for Krispy Kreme’s return for nearly two decades, and the team is thrilled to finally be back.
To celebrate the grand opening, 120 lucky customers this week will each win a dozen free doughnuts every month for a year.
With more than 300 stores nationwide, Krispy Kreme’s return to Minnesota is already proving to be one of the sweetest reintroductions yet.
