Iowa State Fair

About Iowa State Fair

The Iowa State Fair in Des Moines is an eleven-day mid-August spectacular drawing over one million visitors to the state fairgrounds, one of the largest and most celebrated state fairs in America. Dating to 1854, it is one of Iowa's oldest and most enduring agricultural fair traditions.

What to Expect

Expect world-class livestock competitions, nationally known grandstand entertainment, the famous Butter Cow sculpture, 4-H and FFA competitions from across Iowa, an enormous midway, outstanding food on a stick, and the full spectacular Iowa State Fair experience.

Visitor Tips

The Iowa State Fair runs for 11 days in mid-August — book accommodations in Des Moines well in advance, use public transit from downtown, arrive early for livestock competitions, and budget at least two full days to see everything. The Butter Cow is not to be missed.

Nearby County Fairs