Krispy Kreme is officially back in Minnesota, and fans couldn’t be more excited. The famous doughnut brand opened its new shop in Fridley on Wednesday morning at 8 a.m., marking its first return to the state since 2008. The excitement began long before the doors opened. On Tuesday night, eager fans gathered outside the new store, setting up camp in the cold to be among the first to enjoy the hot, fresh doughnuts. Some brought blankets and lawn chairs, while others came prepared with creative setups — one group even started a bonfire to stay warm, and another brought an ice fishing house.
For many, the event was about more than just the sweet treats. It was about creating memories and being part of a shared experience. One fan, Judah from Fridley, said he and his friends wanted to be able to tell their kids someday, “We camped out here overnight, and we were one of the first in line.” That sense of excitement and nostalgia captured what the opening meant for many Minnesotans who had missed the brand for nearly two decades.
Krispy Kreme’s comeback to Minnesota has been a long time coming. Patrick McIntyre, a representative for the company, said that fans across the state have been eagerly waiting for this day. “Everywhere you go in Minnesota, people keep asking, ‘When’s Krispy Kreme opening? We can’t wait!’” he said. That enthusiasm was clear from the crowds who lined up through the night just for a taste of the famous glazed doughnuts fresh off the conveyor belt.
The new store is located at 5696 University Avenue in Fridley. City officials anticipated the excitement and planned carefully to manage the opening day traffic. Although there were no road closures, police officers and traffic agents were stationed on 57th Avenue Northeast to keep the roads clear and safe. Drivers were directed to enter from 57th Avenue near Caribou Coffee and to exit by turning right onto 57th to avoid congestion. The city’s preparation helped ensure that the grand opening went smoothly, even with the large crowds.
According to Krispy Kreme’s CEO, fans have been requesting the brand’s return to Minnesota for nearly twenty years, and the company is thrilled to finally make it happen. The new store represents more than just another location — it’s a sign of Krispy Kreme reconnecting with a loyal fan base that has been patiently waiting since the last Minnesota store closed in 2008.
To celebrate the big day, Krispy Kreme is treating customers to something special. During the grand opening week, 120 lucky customers will each win a dozen free doughnuts every month for an entire year. This sweet giveaway adds even more excitement to an event that already feels like a community celebration.
The return of Krispy Kreme to Minnesota is about more than doughnuts — it’s about the shared joy and nostalgia that the brand brings. Whether people are there for the soft, warm glazed doughnuts or simply to be part of a memorable moment, it’s clear that Minnesotans are welcoming the comeback with open arms. With more than 300 stores across the United States, Krispy Kreme’s return to Fridley shows that even after years away, some cravings never fade.
