DES MOINES — From mouthwatering Fair favorites and thrilling rides to live entertainment, Blue Ribbon competitions and unforgettable family fun, all 11 days of the 2026 Iowa State Fair are packed with memory making moments. Discover new attractions, exhibits and experiences for an unforgettable celebration of America250 and Fair Spirit, Aug. 13-23.

Fair Spirit is found in every…

1. FLAVOR, with must-have Fair foods that capture the goodness of the Iowa State Fair. The Best New Food Event will take place at 1 p.m. on July 14 – watch it Live on Facebook, then wait for the reveal of the Red, White or Blue Food and the new drinks at the 2026 Fair.

2. COMPETITION, thousands of red, white and blue-ribbon competitions showcasing the talent and passions of Iowans. Don’t miss the Iowa Arts Council art contest in the William C. Knapp Varied Industries Building south hallway and the Iowa Department of Education’s essay contest in the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center hallway, plus numerous contests and competitions commemorating America250.

3. ENTERTAINMENT ACT, 11 days packed with more than $500,000 in nighttime free shows, strolling acts and special entertainment. Plus, check out the nightly Grandstand shows, fireworks and drone shows; buy tickets at iowastatefair.org.

4. SHOW RING, Cheer on exhibitors during livestock shows, championship drives and banner presentations, then don’t miss one of Opening Day’s biggest spectacles-the Big Ram and Super Bull Weigh-In at 7 p.m. in the Pioneer Livestock Pavilion. It’s a larger-than-life Fair tradition people have to see to believe!

5. EVENT, Create unforgettable memories with unique experiences happening throughout the 11-day celebration. Join us for Sensory-Friendly Morning, presented by ChildServe, try the new Euchre Tournament on Aug. 14 in the Oman Family Youth Inn or make the visit even more memorable with VIP hands-on and up-close animal experiences. Visit iowastatefair.org for a complete list of special events.

6. CREATIVE EXPRESSION, where unique crafts and demonstrations meet Fairgoers. Whether it’s shopping in The Marketplaces under the Grandstand, exploring artwork in the Patty and Jim Cownie Cultural Center, purchasing Iowa-made crafts in the Walnut Center or taking in the new Legacy Sculpture in Ruan Plaza, Fairgoers will find creativity around every corner.

7. SENSE OF COMMUNITY, where the volunteers, staff and Fair fans’ dedication fuel the Fair year-round. Thank a local community hero for their service on Red, White and Blue Day Aug. 13 or a veteran during the Veterans Day Parade Aug. 17. These meaningful moments of gratitude and recognition are traditions that embody the true spirit of the Fair.

8. ADVENTURE, where the rides, thrills and attractions put the “fun” in Fair fun. With more than 40 rides and games in Thrill Ville and Thrill Town, people are going to want to ride the new Arctic Blast roller coaster in Thrill Ville and try winning the big prizes. Save time and money – buy Advance Thrill Pass, One Day Ride Wristbands and State Fair Value Packs now at iowastatefair.org.

9. LEARNING EXPERIENCE, watch skilled artists and experts bring their crafts to life through demonstrations and hands-on presentations in the Bruce L. Rastetter 4-H Exhibits Building, Expo Hill, Cultural Center and John Deere Agriculture Building. Then keep exploring the Fairgrounds, where interactive exhibits and unexpected discoveries will inspire curiosity for all ages.

10. ACT OF GIVING. Through the Blue Ribbon Foundation, Fairgoers have supported the grounds they love, including a $45 million barns renovation project. The Horse Barn is the latest renovation project to be completed, with new flooring, stalling, relocated offices, remodeled and brand-new restrooms and more.

11. BUTTERY TRADITION. The 2026 Butter Cow companion sculpture, “Meet Me at the Pepsi Clock,” celebrates the people, celebrations and diversity that make Iowa shine. The sculpture will showcase the rich heritage and vibrant spirit that bring Iowans together. Plus, a brand new 600 lb butter cow will make its 111th appearance at the 2026 Fair. It’s worth the wait in line for this udderly unforgettable photo opportunity.

Whether returning for Fair favorites or visiting for the first time, fairgoers will find countless opportunities to create lasting memories with family and friends. Experience the excitement of what’s new at the 2026 Iowa State Fair. Find that Fair Spirit at: www.iowastatefair.org/participate/whats-new.