Photo courtesy of the Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES — June 21 marks just 50 days until the Best Days Ever at the 2023 Iowa State Fair. That means there are only 50 days to sign up to volunteer or apply for a seasonal position, get competition and parade entries ready and save money with advance admission and thrill passes.

Best Job Ever

The Iowa State Fair is hiring for the 2023 Iowa State Fair. Visit www.iowastatefair.org for a listing and to apply online. Attend the open interview job fair from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on July 6 at the Elwell Family Food Center on the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Must be 16+ to interview.

Best Volunteers Ever

Volunteers also help create the Best Days Ever at the Iowa State Fair. Check out the volunteer opportunities in 2023.

• Fundraising Opportunity – Gate Admission

A few spots are still open; reserve a spot by contacting Colton Lullmann at 515.401.1607 or admissions@iowastatefair.org.

• The Garden sponsored by Corteva Agriscience

The Iowa State Fair is seeking volunteers for The Garden presented by Corteva Agriscience. Answer questions and talk to Fairgoers about gardening in Iowa. Morning or afternoon shifts are available. Email ewynn@iowastatefair.org or call 515.262.3111 for more information.

• Andringa Family Foundation Little Hands on the Farm

Volunteers are needed throughout the exhibit each day. For more information contact Emily Wynn at ewynn@iowastatefair.org or call 515.262.3111.

• Vet Camps sponsored by Agri-Pro Enterprises of Iowa, Inc.

Opportunities are available for veterinarians, vet technicians and student volunteers. Sign up at www.iowastatefair.org or email Emily Wynn at ewynn@iowastatefair.org for more information.

• Information Booths

For more information contact Paula Barnes, Volunteer Superintendent, by email at iowafairvolunteer@gmail.com.

• Blue Ribbon Foundation- Volunteers

Sign up to help sell bottled water and Iowa State Fair merchandise at stands throughout the grounds. All Blue Ribbon Foundation funds go right back to Fairground renovations. To volunteer with the Blue Ribbon Foundation, visit www.blueribbonfoundation.org.

Best Entries Ever

• Iowa State Fair Parade

Applications for floats, vehicles and novelty units; horses; marching bands; and walking and performing groups are available at: www.iowastatefair.org/participate/parade or by contacting Liz Ley at 515.262.3111 ext. 282 or lley@iowastatefair.org.

• Competitive Events

Entry rules and information can be found at: www.iowastatefair.org/participate/competition. Entry deadlines and fees vary by department. Online entries may be made at www.iowastatefair.org.

Best Ways to Save

• Advance Admission

The advance admission offer is the lowest admission price available and must be purchased before opening day, Aug. 10.

Check out www.iowastatefair.org for information on Ag Experiences, Elwell Family Park events and Grandstand tickets. The daily schedule will be posted in early July.