County Fair Guide

Iowa State Fair

Des Moines, Iowa

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Typical Month

August

Duration

11 days

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Size

large

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.

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.

Places to Stay Nearby

Find hotels and vacation rentals close to Des Moines.

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