2026 Iowa State Fair Visitors May Again Bring Their Own Food, Drinks

IOWA INSPIRING IN FAIR EXHIBIT

SMITHSONIAN

2026 Iowa State Fair visitors may again bring their own food, drinks

The Iowa State Fair starts Thursday and, while fair food is a big draw for many, the fair will again allow visitors to bring in drinks and snacks in soft-sided coolers. That policy was in effect for last year’s fair, too, and Iowa State Fair CEO Jeremy Parsons says it was the right thing to […]

IOWA STATE FAIR — Easier than ever to get to the Iowa State Fair

With new parking improvements, updated traffic entries and convenient transportation options, Fairgoers have more ways to get to the fun at the Iowa State Fair. Whether you choose to park, ride DART or hop on the new FREE shuttle from…

Iowa State Fair: Tracking daily attendance, records throughout the fair

The biggest day in Iowa State Fair history is Aug. 10, 2024, when 128,298 people went through the gates. Will we see any records broken this year?

Easier to Find Competition Results for the 2026 Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES — The new and improved process will allow for quicker posting and more efficient local media pick-up. From pies and photography to livestock and yodeling, Fairgoers can now access results faster and more efficiently.

The Iowa State Fair starts Thursday and, while fair food is a big draw for many, the fair will again allow visitors to bring in drinks and snacks in soft-sided coolers

The Iowa State Fair starts Thursday and, while fair food is a big draw for many, the fair will again allow visitors to bring in drinks and snacks in soft-sided coolers. That policy was in effect for last year's fair, too, and Iowa State Fair C-E-O Jeremy Parsons says it was the right thing to do. "We want all Iowans to feel welcome at the Iowa State Fair so affordability is key. We've really held the line and we've not increased admission since …