Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation's Corndog Kickoff Fundraiser Tops $1 million

DES MOINES, IA (07/10/2023) (readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation's 2023 Corndog Kickoff Benefit Auction and Fair Food Grazing Party on Saturday, July 8 was a true celebration of Iowans' favorite days in August. Saturday's event raised a record total of $1,006,590 for the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds!

More than 2,500 Iowa State Fair supporters gathered for a night of fun, food and fundraising. The Blue Ribbon Foundation auctioned off 34 live and 273 silent auction packages.

"The Corndog Kickoff set a tremendous record this year in terms of attendance and dollars raised," said Peter Cownie, Blue Ribbon Foundation Executive Director. "The Blue Ribbon Foundation is grateful for the Fair-lovers who came out to support the grand tradition that we all hold near and dear to our hearts. Thank you on behalf of the Blue Ribbon Foundation and the Iowa State Fair for a remarkable evening."

The Blue Ribbon Foundation encourages the public to attend this year's Iowa State Fair, August 10-20 to enjoy the many improvements made possible through the support of generous donors.

The $25 million livestock barns renovation started with the sheep barn this spring. The cattle, horse, and swine barns will each receive enhancements over the next several years.

The Iowa State Fair public safety building is being updated to make sure the facility meets the high standards of the Iowa State Fair Police Department. The exterior of Pioneer Hall was repainted, windows replaced and the main doors rebuilt.

Permanent restrooms were added to the Elwell Family Park. The Fairview Tap patio was expanded and landscaped. The north and east exterior doors of the Agriculture Building have been renovated. There will be a new agriculture inspired mural at the Alliant Energy Landing.

Since its inception in 1993, the Blue Ribbon Foundation has been raising funds to renovate and restore the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. More than $200 million has been generated to date and has supported more than 40 projects throughout the Fairgrounds.

The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. For more information, please contact the Foundation at 515-262-3111, Info@BlueRibbonFoundation.org or visit www.BlueRibbonFoundation.org.

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