Step Right Up! Why the Iowa State Fair is More Than Just an Event – It’s a Feeling

There are some places that just stick with you, weaving themselves into the fabric of your memories and bringing a smile to your face whenever they come to mind. For countless Iowans, and indeed, for visitors from far and wide, the Iowa State Fair is one such place. It’s not just a collection of rides, food stalls, or even prizewinning livestock; it’s an annual pilgrimage to the heart of what makes summer so magical, a vibrant explosion of sights, sounds, and flavors that awaken the senses and stir the soul. Mark your calendars for August 7-17, 2025, and head to IOWA because you won’t want to miss it!

Iowa State Fairgrounds
3000 East Grand Ave
Des Moines, Iowa 50317
August 7-17, 2025

Childhood Memories

I remember my own childhood visits like they were yesterday. Our family vacations often meant packing into a refurbished, converted RV school bus “schoolie” with family friends and heading to the fairgrounds to camp, turning the entire event into an unforgettable adventure. The sheer scale of it all was overwhelming in the best possible way – the dizzying heights of the Ferris wheel, the cacophony of the midway, and that unmistakable aroma of corn dogs and warm doughnuts. But amidst all the excitement, two traditions stand out in my mind. One was the legendary Butter Cow, drawing me in with its cool, creamy allure. It was, and still is, a marvel of edible art, a testament to creativity and tradition that embodies the whimsical spirit of the fair. The other was just as captivating, even from afar: I used to watch the Bill Riley Talent Search every night on PBS TV if I wasn’t in attendance, cheering for the young performers and dreaming of one day seeing it all in person. That feeling of wonder, of seeing something truly unique, whether live or on screen, is a core part of the fair’s enduring appeal.

Agricultural Heritage

Beyond the iconic attractions and delicious treats, the Iowa State Fair also serves as a vital showcase for the next generation of agricultural leaders. Step into the livestock barns, and you’ll witness the incredible dedication of local 4-H and FFA finalists. 4-H is a youth development organization where young people “learn by doing” across a wide range of projects, from animal husbandry to STEM, focusing on head, heart, hands, and health. The National FFA Organization (previously known as Future Farmers of America), is an intracurricular student organization for those interested in agriculture and leadership development, preparing students for various careers in the agricultural industry. These bright young minds proudly display their meticulously cared-for cattle, hogs, sheep, and more, each animal a testament to months of hard work and commitment. It’s truly inspiring to see their passion, their knowledge, and the tangible results of their efforts, as they compete for top honors and represent the future of Iowa’s rich agricultural heritage.

Talented Line Up

And the excitement doesn’t stop there! The Iowa State Fair Grandstand always delivers a stellar lineup, and 2025 is no exception. Get ready to sing along to some of your favorites, with acts like Forrest Frank & Lecrae, Parker McCollum & Josh Abbott Band, Megan Moroney & Kameron Marlowe, Pitbull, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Rascal Flatts, Hairball’s Silver Anniversary Tour, Def Leppard, Hank Williams Jr., T-Pain, and KIDZ BOP LIVE Certified BOP Tour all set to electrify the stage throughout the fair’s run. From chart-topping country to legendary rock and family-friendly fun, there’s a concert for every taste, promising unforgettable nights under the Iowa sky.

Beyond the Grandstand

Beyond the grandstand there are numerous other scheduled events in other venues around the fair grounds. The Iowa State Fair offers an incredible array of free entertainment included with gate admission, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening across its multiple stages and throughout the fairgrounds. You can enjoy a diverse lineup of musical acts, from country to rock tributes, at the Susan Knapp Amphitheater, Anne and Bill Riley Stage, and MidAmerican Energy Stage. Catch musical acts like tribute bands for Journey, Heart and the Beatles as well as Allie Colleen, Waylon Wyatt and Jason Brown. Beyond the music, the Fun Forest Stage brings laughter and amazement with comedy and magic.

Crowning a Queen

A true highlight of the Fair’s spirit of excellence and community is the annual Iowa State Fair Queen Coronation. This revered tradition brings together talented young women, crowned as queens in their respective counties, to compete for the coveted state title. Judged on personality, attitude, leadership, citizenship, and overall poise, these young women represent the very best of Iowa’s youth, embodying the values and spirit of the fair. Witnessing the crowning ceremony is a moment of pride and celebration, recognizing not just beauty, but also intelligence, dedication, and a commitment to their communities.

Food and Thrills

But the fair’s magic extends far beyond the Grandstand. Imagine soaring high above the bustling grounds on the Sky Glider, taking in breathtaking panoramic views, or taking a nostalgic journey through the charming Ye Old Mill, the fair’s oldest permanent ride. For thrill-seekers, the Thrill Parks—Thrill Ville, Thrill Town, and Thrill Zone—offer heart-pounding rides and carnival games. And let’s not forget the food! With over 200 vendors, the Iowa State Fair is a foodie’s paradise, famous for its incredible array of “food on a stick” and new, adventurous culinary creations each year. This includes unique and beloved spots often run by commodity groups and livestock associations, like the Cattlemen’s Beef Quarters serving up their famous Hot Beef Sundae, or the Iowa Pork Producers Association’s Pork Tent with its mouth-watering Pork Chop on a Stick. These stands not only offer delicious, Iowa-sourced fare but also directly support the very agricultural communities that make the fair so special. Whether you crave a classic footlong corn dog, a deep-fried Uncrustable, or the famous Bauder’s Peppermint Ice Cream Bar, your taste buds are in for a treat. You can even find unique displays like the record-setting “Big Boar” or cool off in the air-conditioned Cultural Center with its diverse art exhibits.  In 2025, the Fair is also introducing over 60 new food items from seven new vendors, a Sensory-Friendly Morning on August 13th, the Variety Star Playground for all abilities, and an attempt to break a Guinness World Record for the most people scratching a lottery ticket at once on August 14th. These new elements promise to add fresh layers of excitement and engagement for all fairgoers.

“The Iowa State Fair is one of my favorite Midwest fairs to attend. I am excited about the line up of country music talent this year and I am looking forward to the Beef Sundae.”

Britt Bailey
Gotta B Country Radio
http://www.youtube.com/@britt-pearson

Cowboy Boot Camp

The Iowa State Fair’s Cowboy Boot Camp offers an exciting, interactive dive into the Wild West. Fairgoers can try their hand at gold panning and roping, learn how to saddle a horse, and even experience a “Cowboy Campout” with a faux cookout. It’s a fantastic way for fairgoers of all ages to engage with cowboy culture through fun, hands-on activities.  Dress like a cowgirl or cowboy and don’t forget your CLN patch!  

2025 Features

The Iowa State Fair doesn’t just introduce new food every year.  This year it is introducing several exciting new features and events too!

In livestock, a notable addition is the debut of the Highland Cattle Show on August 15th in the Livestock Pavilion, promising to be a shaggy and captivating spectacle. Beyond this new specific show, the fair continues its tradition of showcasing participants across various animal categories, from beef and dairy cattle to sheep, swine, goats, and poultry.

As for a rodeo, the 2025 Fair will feature a NEW Electric Utilities Lineman Rodeo on August 15th in Elwell Family Park. This unique event will see skilled linemen compete in high-flying, high-stakes challenges, offering a different kind of “rodeo” excitement. While it’s not a traditional rodeo, it certainly brings a new element of thrilling competition to the fairgrounds.

Midwestern Spirit

While the Iowa State Fair consistently ranks among the top fairs in the nation and is Iowa’s largest event, it holds its own unique charm even when compared to other Midwestern giants. For example, the Minnesota State Fair, known as “The Great Minnesota Get-Together,”  and the Wisconsin State Fair, famous for its cream puffs and strong homegrown business focus.   Iowa also hosts other incredible county fairs within that captures the heart of their regions, such as the Clay County Fair in Spencer, known as “The World’s Greatest County Fair” and recognized for its massive farm machinery show, and the Mississippi Valley Fair in Davenport, a major annual celebration for the Quad Cities area featuring big-name concerts and diverse entertainment. Each of these fairs offers its own distinctive flavor, but they all share that quintessential Midwestern spirit of community, agriculture, and celebration that makes the Iowa State Fair so special.  There really is no other fair that compares to a Midwest Fair.  

Unparalleled Experience

If you want to step out of your daily routine and marvel at a bovine masterpiece, cheer on future farmers, indulge in a unique fair delicacy, partake in a thrilling carnival ride or catch a Grandstand performance, the Iowa State Fair offers an unparalleled experience. It’s a place where communities come together, where traditions are celebrated, and where new memories are forged. It’s truly Iowa’s greatest celebration, attracting over a million people annually and consistently ranking as one of the top events in the entire country.

So, as the summer days unfold, let the anticipation build. The Iowa State Fair isn’t just an event to attend; it’s an experience to live. If unable to attend, be sure to tune in to the Nightly Iowa State Fair Recaps on Iowa PBS or their YouTube channel to see just what you missed out on.   We’ll see you there!