Iowa State Fair Economic and Community Impact Study Results

DES MOINES, IA (11/19/2025) (readMedia)-- The internationally acclaimed Iowa State Fair is the state's largest event and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country. A 2025 study conducted by Johnson Consulting found that the economic impact from the Iowa State Fair and Fairgrounds' year-round activities for the state of Iowa totaled $629.2 million in 2024.

The economic impact findings were shared with the public by Iowa State Fair CEO and Manager Jeremy Parsons on Wednesday, November 19, during a coffee-and-conversation event held at the Elwell Family Food Center on the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

The study revealed the Iowa State Fair and Fairgrounds' 2024 total economic impact, including:

• 81,400 hotel room nights generated
• 4,880 ongoing jobs sustained
• $211.9 million in wages created
• $17 million state fiscal impact

The economic impact of the eleven-day Iowa State Fair is comparable to other 2024 events, including the Kentucky Derby ($405M), the NCAA Men's Basketball Final Four in San Antonio ($429M), the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Austin, Texas ($434-480M), and a three-show run of the Taylor Swift Eras Tour in New Orleans ($500M).

According to the nationwide portion of the same study by the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) and Johnson Consulting, fairgrounds across the United States have a $52 billion economic impact and generate $17.6 billion in wages. Furthermore, 29% of the U.S. population attends a fair each year, more than the combined attendance of Major League Baseball and the NFL.

*The methodology utilized for this study was based on revenue generated along with attendance figures for fairs and non-fair events held throughout the year. Standard statistical models and assumptions were applied to create these results. The totals DO NOT include revenue made by concessionaires, carnivals, or other businesses that operate at fairs. The revenue received as rent or profit-sharing from these companies is reflected, but their impact is not factored into this study. Therefore, we are capturing only one portion of a symbiotic industry. This study was made possible with the generous support of OABA, The Eastern States Exposition, and the Iowa State Fair.

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The Iowa State Fair, held annually in Des Moines, remains one of the nation's premier state fairs. Drawing over a million visitors each year, it's known for celebrating Iowa's agricultural roots and community spirit. 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.