Blue Ribbon Blog

Welcome to the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation’s blog!

We are a non-profit organization with a mission to raise funds for the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. Since our inception in 1993, the Foundation has raised more than $200 million through individual contributions, state appropriations, in-kind services, and corporate, federal and state grants.

Please follow our blog to learn more about our organization.

Ever since I was little, food has always been one of my favorite parts of the Fair. I remember walking around in my little pink crocs, carrying a turkey leg the size of my head!

Many of you have probably seen that the Fair has posted this year’s list of new foods. I don’t know about you,…

More

The Blue Ribbon Foundation cooked up significant fundraising success at the 2025 Corndog Kickoff Benefit Auction and Fair Food Grazing Party this past…

More

Corndog Kickoff Connoisseurs,

 

Is anyone as excited about the Corndog…

More

Faithful Fairgoers,

If you’ve considered nominating an outstanding Iowan in your community for the Iowan of the Day Award, now is the time to make their State Fair dreams…

More

Blue Ribbon Family,

Do you have a friend who has made a positive difference in your community? Is there someone in your neighborhood working to make our state a better…

More

Happy Wednesday!

I don’t know about you, but I love to dress up. Growing up, that was one of my favorite activities. It’s really cool that being an intern at the Fair, I have an even wider array of options to choose from to unleash my inner supermodel!

 

Check…

More

Hello Fair Enthusiasts, 

Only 51 days until the Fair! With the Fair quickly approaching we wanted to remind you of a way you can leave your mark on the Fairgrounds; a brick! A brick is the perfect way to leave a permanent legacy while supporting the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s mission.…

More

Happy Friday!

The Blue Ribbon Foundation is counting down the days until the Corndog Kickoff Benefit Auction and Fair Food Grazing Party, our largest…

More

Hey Fairgoers!

 

Did you know the Fair presents a unique opportunity to win some money and meet local celebrities for only $1?

 

More