Iowa State Fair 2024 Dates: Mark Your Calendars for 12 Days of Fun!

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Iowa State Fair 2024 Dates: Mark Your Calendars for 12 Days of Fun!

The Iowa State Fair is a beloved annual tradition that draws millions of visitors from across the state and beyond. This year, the fair will be held from August 9th to August 20th, 2024, at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines.

The Iowa State Fair is a celebration of all things Iowa, featuring a wide range of attractions, including livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, live music, midway games, food vendors, and more. Whether you’re a lifelong Iowa resident or just visiting for the first time, there’s something for everyone at the fair.

With just over a year to go until the 2024 Iowa State Fair, it’s time to start planning your trip. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned fairgoer, there are a few things you’ll need to know to make the most of your experience.

Iowa State Fair 2024 Dates

Mark your calendars and prepare for 12 days of fun and excitement at the Iowa State Fair 2024!

  • Dates: August 9th – 20th, 2024
  • Location: Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines
  • Admission: $18 for adults, $10 for children
  • Hours: 8am – 10pm daily
  • Attendance: Over 1 million visitors annually
  • Attractions: Livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, live music, midway games, food vendors
  • Theme: “Iowa: Where the Heartland Thrives”

With something for everyone, the Iowa State Fair is a can’t-miss event that celebrates the best of Iowa’s agriculture, culture, and community.

Dates: August 9th – 20th, 2024

The Iowa State Fair 2024 will be held from August 9th to August 20th, 2024. This 12-day extravaganza offers something for everyone, from livestock shows and agricultural exhibits to live music and midway games.

  • Early Bird Tickets:

    Save money by purchasing your tickets in advance. Early bird tickets are available online and at select retailers.

  • Special Days and Discounts:

    Take advantage of special days and discounts throughout the fair, such as Kids’ Day, Senior Day, and Military Appreciation Day. Check the fair’s website for a complete list of special days and discounts.

  • Plan Your Visit:

    With so much to see and do, it’s helpful to plan your visit in advance. Create a list of must-see attractions and events, and make sure to leave time for browsing the many exhibits and vendors.

  • Beat the Crowds:

    If you prefer to avoid large crowds, consider visiting the fair during the weekdays or early in the morning. You’ll have more space to roam and shorter lines for attractions.

No matter when you choose to visit, the Iowa State Fair 2024 is sure to be a memorable experience for the whole family.

Location: Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines

The Iowa State Fairgrounds is a sprawling 435-acre complex located just east of downtown Des Moines. It is home to a variety of buildings and facilities, including the iconic Grandstand, the Varied Industries Building, and the Agriculture Building. The fairgrounds also features a large outdoor space, which is used for livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, and other events.

During the Iowa State Fair, the fairgrounds are transformed into a bustling hub of activity. Vendors line the streets, selling everything from food and drinks to souvenirs and crafts. Live music fills the air, and the midway is packed with games and rides for all ages. There’s something for everyone at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two celebrating Iowa’s agriculture, culture, and community.

Here are some tips for getting to and around the Iowa State Fairgrounds:

  • By Car: The fairgrounds are easily accessible by car. There are plenty of parking lots available, but they can fill up quickly. Consider carpooling or taking public transportation to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
  • By Public Transportation: The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) offers bus service to the fairgrounds. There is also a special DART shuttle that runs between downtown Des Moines and the fairgrounds during the fair.
  • By Bike: The fairgrounds are also accessible by bike. There are bike racks located throughout the grounds, and there is a designated bike path that leads from downtown Des Moines to the fairgrounds.

Once you’re at the fairgrounds, you can use the free shuttle service to get around. The shuttle stops at all of the major attractions, making it easy to see everything the fair has to offer.

With its convenient location and easy access to parking and public transportation, the Iowa State Fairgrounds is the perfect place to host the Iowa State Fair. Whether you’re a lifelong Iowan or just visiting for the first time, you’re sure to have a memorable experience at the fair.

Admission: $18 for adults, $10 for children

Admission to the Iowa State Fair is $18 for adults and $10 for children ages 6-11. Children under 5 are admitted free. There are also a number of ways to save money on admission, such as purchasing tickets in advance or taking advantage of special discounts.

  • Advance Tickets: Save money by purchasing your tickets in advance. Advance tickets are available online and at select retailers. You can also purchase advance tickets at the gate, but you will pay a slightly higher price.
  • Special Discounts: There are a number of special discounts available for admission to the Iowa State Fair. For example, seniors (age 65 and older) can purchase tickets for $12. There is also a special discount for military members and their families. Check the fair’s website for a complete list of special discounts.
  • Free Admission Days: There are two days during the fair when admission is free: Kids’ Day and Military Appreciation Day. Kids’ Day is typically held on a weekday during the fair, and Military Appreciation Day is typically held on the last day of the fair. Check the fair’s website for the exact dates and times of these free admission days.
  • Season Passes: If you plan on attending the fair for multiple days, you can purchase a season pass. Season passes are available for $50 and they allow you to enter the fairgrounds as many times as you want during the 12-day run of the fair.

No matter how you choose to purchase your tickets, be sure to have them ready when you arrive at the fairgrounds. You will need to show your tickets to a gate attendant in order to enter the fair.

Tips for Saving Money on Admission:

  • Purchase your tickets in advance.
  • Take advantage of special discounts.
  • Attend the fair on Kids’ Day or Military Appreciation Day.
  • Purchase a season pass if you plan on attending the fair for multiple days.

Hours: 8am – 10pm daily

The Iowa State Fair is open from 8am to 10pm daily during the 12-day run of the fair. This gives visitors plenty of time to see all that the fair has to offer, from the livestock shows and agricultural exhibits to the live music and midway games.

  • Early Birds: If you’re an early riser, you can take advantage of the fair’s early morning hours to beat the crowds. This is a great time to visit the livestock shows and agricultural exhibits, which are typically less crowded in the morning.
  • Night Owls: If you prefer to stay up late, you can enjoy the fair’s evening hours, when the midway is lit up and the live music is in full swing. This is also a great time to people-watch and soak up the festive atmosphere of the fair.
  • Planning Your Visit: With so much to see and do at the fair, it’s helpful to plan your visit in advance. Create a list of must-see attractions and events, and make sure to leave time for browsing the many exhibits and vendors. You can also use the fair’s website to create a personalized schedule of events.
  • Taking Breaks: It’s important to take breaks throughout the day, especially if you’re visiting the fair with children. There are plenty of places to sit down and relax, including the many food courts and beer gardens. You can also take a break from the hustle and bustle of the fair by visiting one of the many museums or art exhibits on the fairgrounds.

No matter when you choose to visit the Iowa State Fair, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. With its long hours and something for everyone to enjoy, the fair is the perfect place to spend a day or two celebrating Iowa’s agriculture, culture, and community.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit:

  • Plan your visit in advance.
  • Take breaks throughout the day.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
  • Wear comfortable shoes.
  • Be prepared for crowds.
  • Have fun!

Attendance: Over 1 million visitors annually

The Iowa State Fair is one of the largest and most popular state fairs in the United States. It attracts over 1 million visitors annually from all over the country. This makes it a great place to people-watch and soak up the festive atmosphere of the fair.

  • Local Pride: Iowans are proud of their state and the Iowa State Fair is a great place to celebrate all that Iowa has to offer. Visitors can learn about Iowa’s agriculture, culture, and history, and sample some of the state’s best food and drink.
  • Family-Friendly Fun: The Iowa State Fair is a great place to take the whole family. There are attractions and activities for people of all ages, from livestock shows and agricultural exhibits to live music and midway games. There are also plenty of places to sit down and relax, including the many food courts and beer gardens.
  • Something for Everyone: No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy at the Iowa State Fair. There are hundreds of exhibits and vendors, featuring everything from handmade crafts to the latest in agricultural technology. There is also a wide variety of food and drink options, from classic fair food to fine dining.
  • Economic Impact: The Iowa State Fair has a significant economic impact on the state of Iowa. The fair generates over $100 million in revenue each year and supports over 1,000 jobs. It is also a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the country.

The Iowa State Fair is a truly unique and special event. It is a celebration of Iowa’s agriculture, culture, and community. With something for everyone to enjoy, it’s no wonder that the fair attracts over 1 million visitors annually.

Tips for Avoiding Crowds:

  • Visit the fair during the weekdays or early in the morning.
  • Take advantage of the fair’s shuttle service to avoid walking long distances.
  • Be prepared for long lines at popular attractions.
  • Bring your own food and drinks to save money.
  • Wear comfortable shoes.

Attractions: Livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, live music, midway games, food vendors

The Iowa State Fair offers a wide variety of attractions for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the most popular attractions:

Livestock Shows: The Iowa State Fair is home to some of the best livestock shows in the country. Visitors can see a variety of animals, including cattle, pigs, sheep, horses, and goats. There are also competitions for showmanship and other livestock-related events.

Agricultural Exhibits: The Iowa State Fair is also a great place to learn about Iowa’s agriculture. There are exhibits on everything from crop production to farm machinery. Visitors can also see demonstrations of agricultural practices and learn about the latest advances in agricultural technology.

Live Music: The Iowa State Fair features a variety of live music performances throughout the 12-day run of the fair. There are stages located all over the fairgrounds, featuring everything from country music to rock and roll to blues. There is also a nightly concert at the Grandstand, which features some of the biggest names in music.

Midway Games: The Iowa State Fair midway is a classic fairground attraction. There are games for all ages, from rides and roller coasters to skill games and games of chance. There are also plenty of food vendors selling everything from classic fair food to more exotic fare.

Food Vendors: The Iowa State Fair is a great place to try some of Iowa’s best food. There are hundreds of food vendors selling everything from corn dogs and funnel cakes to pork chops on a stick and deep-fried Oreos. There is also a wide variety of craft beer and wine available.

These are just a few of the many attractions that the Iowa State Fair has to offer. With something for everyone, it’s no wonder that the fair attracts over 1 million visitors annually.

Tips for Making the Most of the Attractions:

  • Plan your visit in advance to see which attractions you want to see most.
  • Take advantage of the fair’s shuttle service to avoid walking long distances.
  • Be prepared for long lines at popular attractions.
  • Bring cash or a credit card to purchase food and drinks.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

Theme: “Iowa: Where the Heartland Thrives”

The theme of the 2024 Iowa State Fair is “Iowa: Where the Heartland Thrives.” This theme celebrates Iowa’s strong agricultural heritage and its position as a leader in food production. It also highlights the state’s vibrant culture and community spirit.

The fair will feature a variety of exhibits and events that showcase Iowa’s agricultural prowess. Visitors can learn about the state’s different crops and livestock, and see the latest in agricultural technology. There will also be demonstrations of traditional farming practices and competitions for farmers and ranchers.

In addition to its agricultural focus, the fair will also celebrate Iowa’s culture and community. There will be live music performances, art exhibits, and cultural demonstrations. There will also be a variety of food vendors selling Iowa’s best food and drink. And of course, no Iowa State Fair would be complete without a few midway games and rides.

The Iowa State Fair is a great place to learn about Iowa’s agriculture, culture, and community. It is also a great place to have fun and make memories with family and friends. Whether you’re a lifelong Iowan or just visiting for the first time, you’re sure to enjoy the 2024 Iowa State Fair.

Here are some examples of how the theme “Iowa: Where the Heartland Thrives” will be reflected at the fair:

  • Agricultural Exhibits: There will be exhibits on everything from crop production to farm machinery. Visitors can also see demonstrations of agricultural practices and learn about the latest advances in agricultural technology.
  • Livestock Shows: The Iowa State Fair is home to some of the best livestock shows in the country. Visitors can see a variety of animals, including cattle, pigs, sheep, horses, and goats. There are also competitions for showmanship and other livestock-related events.
  • Live Music: The Iowa State Fair features a variety of live music performances throughout the 12-day run of the fair. There are stages located all over the fairgrounds, featuring everything from country music to rock and roll to blues. There is also a nightly concert at the Grandstand, which features some of the biggest names in music.
  • Food Vendors: The Iowa State Fair is a great place to try some of Iowa’s best food. There are hundreds of food vendors selling everything from corn dogs and funnel cakes to pork chops on a stick and deep-fried Oreos. There is also a wide variety of craft beer and wine available.

FAQ

Welcome to the FAQ section for the 2024 Iowa State Fair!

Here you will find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the fair. If you have a question that is not answered here, please visit the fair’s website or contact the fair office.

Question 1: What are the dates of the 2024 Iowa State Fair?

Answer: The 2024 Iowa State Fair will be held from August 9th to August 20th, 2024.

Question 2: What are the hours of the fair?

Answer: The fair is open from 8am to 10pm daily.

Question 3: How much does admission cost?

Answer: Admission is $18 for adults and $10 for children ages 6-11. Children under 5 are admitted free.

Question 4: Where can I park?

Answer: There are several parking lots available near the fairgrounds. Parking costs $10 per vehicle.

Question 5: What kind of attractions can I expect to see at the fair?

Answer: The fair features a wide variety of attractions, including livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, live music, midway games, and food vendors.

Question 6: What is the theme of the 2024 Iowa State Fair?

Answer: The theme of the 2024 Iowa State Fair is “Iowa: Where the Heartland Thrives.”

Question 7: Are there any special events or discounts available during the fair?

Answer: Yes, there are a number of special events and discounts available during the fair. For example, there is a Kids’ Day, a Senior Day, and a Military Appreciation Day. There are also discounts available for advance ticket purchases and season passes.

Closing Paragraph:

We hope this FAQ section has answered some of your questions about the 2024 Iowa State Fair. For more information, please visit the fair’s website or contact the fair office.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit:

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit to the Iowa State Fair:

  • Plan your visit in advance. Create a list of must-see attractions and events, and make sure to leave time for browsing the many exhibits and vendors.
  • Take advantage of special events and discounts. There are a number of special events and discounts available during the fair, so be sure to check the fair’s website or contact the fair office for more information.
  • Be prepared for crowds. The Iowa State Fair is a popular event, so be prepared for crowds. Arrive early or visit during the weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. It can get hot and humid at the fair, so be sure to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking at the fair, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

Tips

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your visit to the 2024 Iowa State Fair:

Tip 1: Plan Your Visit in Advance

Create a list of must-see attractions and events, and make sure to leave time for browsing the many exhibits and vendors. You can also use the fair’s website to create a personalized schedule of events.

Tip 2: Take Advantage of Special Events and Discounts

There are a number of special events and discounts available during the fair, so be sure to check the fair’s website or contact the fair office for more information. For example, there is a Kids’ Day, a Senior Day, and a Military Appreciation Day. There are also discounts available for advance ticket purchases and season passes.

Tip 3: Be Prepared for Crowds

The Iowa State Fair is a popular event, so be prepared for crowds. Arrive early or visit during the weekdays to avoid the biggest crowds. You can also take advantage of the fair’s shuttle service to avoid walking long distances.

Tip 4: Stay Hydrated and Wear Sunscreen

It can get hot and humid at the fair, so be sure to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen to protect your skin. You can also take breaks throughout the day to cool off in one of the many air-conditioned buildings on the fairgrounds.

Closing Paragraph:

By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to the 2024 Iowa State Fair. With something for everyone to enjoy, the fair is the perfect place to spend a day or two celebrating Iowa’s agriculture, culture, and community.

Conclusion:

The Iowa State Fair is a can’t-miss event that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, live music, midway games, or food vendors, you’re sure to find something to enjoy at the fair. So mark your calendars for August 9th to August 20th, 2024, and start planning your visit to the Iowa State Fair today!

Conclusion

The Iowa State Fair is a beloved annual tradition that draws millions of visitors from across the state and beyond. The 2024 fair will be held from August 9th to August 20th, and it promises to be another unforgettable event.

The fair offers something for everyone, from livestock shows and agricultural exhibits to live music and midway games. There are also plenty of food vendors selling everything from classic fair food to more exotic fare. And of course, no Iowa State Fair would be complete without a few butter cow sculptures.

The 2024 Iowa State Fair will also feature a variety of special events and attractions, including a petting zoo, a carnival, and a nightly concert series. There will also be a number of educational exhibits on topics such as agriculture, science, and history.

Whether you’re a lifelong Iowan or just visiting for the first time, you’re sure to enjoy the 2024 Iowa State Fair. It’s the perfect place to celebrate Iowa’s agriculture, culture, and community.

Closing Message:

Mark your calendars for August 9th to August 20th, 2024, and start planning your visit to the Iowa State Fair today! With something for everyone, the fair is the perfect place to spend a day or two celebrating all that Iowa has to offer.

We hope to see you there!

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