Iowa State Fair

The Iowa State Fair, the inspiration for the original novel 'State Fair' by Iowan Phil Stong, three motion pictures and Rodgers and Hammerstein's Broadway musical, is without a doubt the country's most famous state fair.

The internationally acclaimed Iowa State Fair is the single largest event in the state of Iowa and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country.

With contests, livestock shows, volunteering, talent shows, and commercial spaces at the Fair, there are many ways to showcase talent.

Part of the spirit of the Iowa State Fair comes from contests and competitions. From cow-chip throwing, to bags tournaments, to livestock competitions and entering your best pie, nothing compares to winning a ribbon at the Iowa State Fair.

Annually attracting more than a million people from all over the world, the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines is Iowa's great celebration, a salute to the state's best in agriculture, industry, entertainment and achievement. It is the true heartbeat of the Midwest, unequalled and unduplicated.

Food is one of the main attractions at the Iowa State Fair! The Fair boasts nearly 200 food stands and nearly 70 delectable items available on a stick.

US State Fairs: Agricultural Competition in a Carnival Atmosphere.