Charcuterie Board Creators Claim State Fair Honors

DES MOINES, IA (09/11/2024) (readMedia)-- Monica Walz of Marion won first place in the Board Fun competition judged Thursday, August 8, at the 2024 Iowa State Fair.

Natalie Larson of New Market claimed both the second and third place overall awards.

Entrants were challenged to create award-winning charcuterie boards in three divisions of competition.

Entries were judged on uniqueness, taste and appearance.

Complete results follow:

Traditional Board

1) Natalie Larson, Des Moines

2) Rose Ridgway, Johnston

3) Lauren Petersen, Knoxville

Theme Board (savory, sweet, holiday, etc.)

1) Monica Walz, Marion

2) Natalie Larson, Des Moines

3) Olivia Smith, Winterset

Jarcuterie - Anything Goes

1) Natalie Larson, Des Moines

2) Samantha Streff, Ankeny

3) Molly Thomas, Centerville

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There were 140 divisions, 726 classes and over 6,400 entries at this year's Fair. Food Department judging is held in the Elwell Family Food Center.

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The Iowa State Fair is one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country and the single largest event in the state. The Fair began 170 years ago and is now considered one of the best events in the nation, attracting more than one million Fairgoers every year from all over the world. The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University, just off the interstate and minutes from Downtown Des Moines. Catch Fair Fever at the Iowa State Fair, August 8-18, 2024. For more information, visit www.iowastatefair.org.