11 Days. 11 Ways to Celebrate Fair Spirit. August 13–23

DES MOINES, IA (07/06/2026) (readMedia)-- We've got spirit, how about you? From mouthwatering Fair favorites and thrilling rides to live entertainment, Blue Ribbon competitions and unforgettable family fun, all 11 days of the 2026 Iowa State Fair are packed with memory making moments. Discover new attractions, exhibits and experiences for an unforgettable celebration of America250 and Fair Spirit, August 13–23.

Fair Spirit is found in every...

1. FLAVOR, with must-have Fair foods that capture the goodness of the Iowa State Fair. The Best New Food Event will take place Tuesday, July 14 at 1 p.m. – watch it Live on Facebook, then wait for the reveal of the Red, White or Blue Food and the new Drinks at the 2026 Fair.

2. COMPETITION, thousands of red, white and blue-ribbon competitions showcasing the talent and passions of Iowans. Don't miss the Iowa Arts Council art contest in the William C. Knapp Varied Industries Building south hallway and the Iowa Department of Education's essay contest in the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center hallway, plus numerous contests and competitions commemorating America250.

3. ENTERTAINMENT ACT, 11 days packed with over $500,000 in nighttime free shows, strolling acts and special entertainment. Plus, check out the nightly Grandstand shows, fireworks and drone shows; buy tickets at iowastatefair.org.

4. SHOW RING, Cheer on exhibitors during livestock shows, championship drives and banner presentations, then don't miss one of Opening Day's biggest spectacles-the Big Ram and Super Bull Weigh-In at 7 p.m. in the Pioneer Livestock Pavilion. It's a larger-than-life Fair tradition you have to see to believe!

5. EVENT, Create unforgettable memories with unique experiences happening throughout the 11-day celebration. Join us for Sensory-Friendly Morning, presented by ChildServe, try your luck at the NEW Euchre Tournament on August 14 in the Oman Family Youth Inn or make your visit even more memorable with VIP hands-on and up-close animal experiences ($). Visit iowastatefair.org for a complete list of special events.

6. CREATIVE EXPRESSION, where unique crafts and demonstrations meet Fairgoers. Whether it's shopping in The Marketplaces under the Grandstand, exploring artwork in the Patty and Jim Cownie Cultural Center, purchasing Iowa-made crafts in the Walnut Center or taking in the new Legacy Sculpture in Ruan Plaza, Fairgoers will find creativity around every corner.

7. SENSE OF COMMUNITY, where the volunteers, staff and Fair fans' dedication fuel the Fair year-round. Thank a local community hero for their service on Red, White and Blue Day August 13 or a veteran during the Veterans Day Parade August 17. These meaningful moments of gratitude and recognition are traditions that embody the true spirit of the Fair.

8. ADVENTURE, where the rides, thrills and attractions put the "fun" in Fair fun. With over 40 rides and games in Thrill Ville and Thrill Town, you are going to want to ride the new Arctic Blast roller coaster in Thrill Ville and try your luck at winning the big prizes. Save time and money – buy your Advance Thrill Pass, One Day Ride Wristbands and State Fair Value Packs now at iowastatefair.org.

9. LEARNING EXPERIENCE, watch skilled artists and experts bring their crafts to life through demonstrations and hands-on presentations in the Bruce L. Rastetter 4-H Exhibits Building, Expo Hill, Cultural Center and John Deere Agriculture Building. Then keep exploring the Fairgrounds, where interactive exhibits and unexpected discoveries will inspire curiosity for all ages.

10. ACT OF GIVING. Through the Blue Ribbon Foundation, Fairgoers have supported the grounds they love, including a $45 million barns renovation project. The Horse Barn is the latest renovation project to be completed, with new flooring, stalling, relocated offices, remodeled and brand-new restrooms and more.

11. BUTTERY TRADITION. The 2026 Butter Cow companion sculpture, "Meet Me at the Pepsi Clock," celebrates the people, celebrations and diversity that make Iowa shine. The sculpture will showcase the rich heritage and vibrant spirit that bring Iowans together. Plus, a brand new 600 lb butter cow will make its 111th appearance at the 2026 Fair. It's worth the wait in line for this udderly unforgettable photo opportunity.

Whether you're returning for your Fair favorites or visiting for the first time, you'll find countless opportunities to create lasting memories with family and friends. Experience the excitement of what's new at the 2026 Iowa State Fair! Find Your Fair Spirit here: www.iowastatefair.org/participate/whats-new.

# # #

Frequently ranked as one of the top events in the country, the Iowa State Fair is the single largest event in the state of Iowa and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country. Annually attracting more than a million people from all over the world, the Iowa State Fair, located at East 30th and East University, just 10 minutes from downtown Des Moines, is Iowa's greatest celebration with a salute to the best in agriculture, industry, entertainment and achievement. Fair Spirit, to be held August 13–23, 2026, promises to stand as one of its most historic events yet. For more information, visit www.iowastatefair.org.