Gathering Ground

July 28, 2016
Intern's picture

We are just days away from the Iowa State Fair but who is counting? It is amazing to see the work around the Fairgrounds being done. Yesterday as the interns and I took our lunch on the bleachers of MidAmerican Energy Stage, it came to my attention that we as Fair staff are not the only ones that get to enjoy the preparation of what I call the greatest time of the year. There were two mothers that brought their kids to the park outside our office and had a picnic on the MidAmerican Energy stage, how cool! Every day we see at least one family, if not three or four that utilize the park. The Fairgrounds are more than just a piece of land; it’s a gathering ground for the Des Moines Metro community year-round.

Every day the interns always talk about how we can’t believe the Fair is already here. We have been gearing up for this time since we started, which seems like yesterday! Calls are being made quite frequently to confirm last minute details, mail is being sent, volunteers are confirming their schedules and Iowans of the Day have been selected.  The office has been busy to say the least.

I have been to the Iowa State Fair for the duration of the Fair for the past 14 years and every year it amazes me the new attractions I discover. This year I have been told I get to attend the outhouse races and potentially participate in the celebrity goat milking contest. That’s what I get for raising goats, being put on the spot at a contest in front of a crowd. Needless to say, I think it will be an unforgettable Fair! The newest attraction I am most excited for is the painting class that is going to be offered on Expo Hill. Messy Missy’s has put together seven phenomenal paintings that represent different aspects of the Iowa State Fair. Check out our website for a full schedule of the different painting times. Also be sure to check out our website to register for the 10th annual Fairgrounds 5K, you won’t want to miss out on the fun!

(Outhouse Races 2015)

(2 of the 7 paintings) 

Francesca