What’s big, green, and laughs like Santa Claus? The Jolly Green Giant of course!

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.

Blue Earth, Minnesota celebrates the famed advertising icon in the form of a massive 55-foot fiberglass statue. It 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 giant himself which sparked the idea.

The Green Giant Company took a vital role in the building of the 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.


Site: Jolly Green Giant Statue
Location: 1130 Giant Drive, Blue Earth, MN
Cost: Free to see.
Hours: Always Visible
Date: August 30, 2008