Wet Weather Delays Iowa State Fair Vendor and Camper Parking

DES MOINES, IA (08/05/2026) (readMedia)-- With 2.5 inches of rain overnight and more rain today, the Iowa State Fair is pausing all vendor and camper setup on Wednesday, August 5.

• Concessionaires and outdoor vendors may only park or set up on hard surfaces today (Wednesday, August 5). Setting up on grassy areas is not allowed until 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 6.

• The Iowa State Fair Campgrounds are closing at noon today (Wednesday, August 5) for any new camper arrivals. The Campgrounds will reopen on Thursday, August 6 at 8:00 a.m.

Ground conditions are too soft at this time, and moving in now could damage grassy areas, cause deep ruts, and create unsafe conditions for vehicles, trailers, and campers.

We appreciate everyone's patience and understanding as we prepare for the 2026 Iowa State Fair, August 13-23, 2026.

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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.