Be a Part of What Makes Nothing Compare

DES MOINES, IA (06/16/2026) (readMedia)-- Volunteers are an essential part of what makes the Iowa State Fair an unforgettable experience. Individuals, families, civic organizations and community groups are invited to be part of the 2026 Iowa State Fair, August 13-23, by signing up for one of the many volunteer opportunities. Whether serving for a few hours or several days, volunteers help create the traditions and memories that make the Iowa State Fair a place where Nothing Compares.

Fundraising Opportunity – Gate Admission

The Iowa State Fair is looking for civic and community groups to help with gate admissions at the Iowa State Fair as a fundraiser. Volunteers can raise money for their organization by welcoming Fairgoers, scanning admission tickets and providing hand stamps for guests. Each volunteer will receive admission, a parking pass and $10 in food coupons per day. Volunteers must be 16 years or older; preferred group sizes of approximately 15 people. For more information or to reserve your spot, please contact Luciano Bertagnolli at 515.401.1557 or LBertagnolli@iowastatefair.org.

Fundraising Opportunity – Barksdale's State Fair Cookies

The Iowa State Fair is looking for civic and community groups to help with Barksdale's State Fair Cookie operations at the Iowa State Fair as a fundraiser. Volunteers can raise money for their organization by bucketing cookies and helping with cleaning tasks. Each volunteer will receive admission. Five parking passes will be provided per group of 10 volunteers. For more information or to reserve your spot, please contact Miranda Kirby at 515.401.1593 or cookies@iowastatefair.org.

The Garden sponsored by Corteva Agriscience - Volunteers

The Iowa State Fair is seeking volunteers for The Garden presented by Corteva Agriscience. Come answer questions and talk to Fairgoers about gardening in Iowa. The Garden will feature fruit trees, vegetable gardens, a history of corn display, soybeans and agricultural cover crops and composting displays. Volunteer for a morning or afternoon and receive free Fair admission. Email ewynn@iowastatefair.org or call 515.401.1544 for more information.

Andringa Family Foundation Little Hands on the Farm – Volunteers

Little Hands on the Farm teaches children about the importance of agriculture and how it impacts their daily lives in a fun and interactive way. Children ages 2 to 10 become farmers at this popular free, hands-on exhibit and volunteers are needed throughout the exhibit each day. For more information, contact Emily Wynn at ewynn@iowastatefair.org or call 515.401.1544.

Vet Camp - Volunteers

The Iowa State Fair is seeking volunteers for Vet Camp and Advanced Vet Camps. Volunteer opportunities are available for veterinarians, veterinarian technicians and student volunteers. Sign up at iowastatefair.org or email Emily Wynn at ewynn@iowastatefair.org for more information.

Parade

Be part of the crew that helps put on the state's largest parade and kick-off for the Iowa State Fair! Volunteers are needed to help facilitate many areas, including staging, barricades and dispersion. For information on volunteering, contact Kiersten Simonetta at ksimonetta@iowastatefair.org.

Information Booth – Volunteers

Maybe you know the Fair like the back of your hand? Maybe you love meeting new people? The Fair is always interested in volunteers to help staff information booths and diaper-changing/nursing stations. For more information contact Paula Barnes, Volunteer Superintendent by email at iowafairvolunteer@gmail.com.

Blue Ribbon Foundation- Volunteers

The Blue Ribbon Foundation is literally the foundation for the Fair, fundraising for all capital improvement projects and all grounds renovations. Sign up to help sell bottled water and Iowa State Fair merchandise at stands throughout the grounds. All Blue Ribbon Foundation funds go toward Fairgrounds renovations. To volunteer with the Blue Ribbon Foundation, visit https://blueribbonfoundation.org/events/iowa-state-fair/volunteer.

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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.