Corndog Kickoff Intern Reflection

Over a week has passed since the annual Corndog Kickoff Benefit Auction and Grazing Party took place in the William C. Knapp Varied Industries Building. The event was a huge success, breaking a previously set record by raising three quarters of a million dollars for the renovation and preservation of the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Having never attending the event previously, I was extremely impressed with the time and dedication put in by the staff and volunteers to ensure the event went off without a hitch. It was also a joy to see that many people in the same room together again since the pandemic.

The four of us interns each had a role to play in the preparation, planning, and executing steps that took place for the Kickoff. Whether that was putting together silent auction packages or setting up table decorations, each detail added value to the final product. In the week leading up to the Corndog Kickoff, the Varied Industries building transform into an I SPY extravaganza for the 2,200 people in attendance.

My favorite part was seeing people flood into the area and watching them enjoy each aspect of the event. I was able to enjoy my favorite Fair food, a Cattleman’s Hot Beef Sundae, before the Iowa State Fair this year. From the variety of Fair food offered, to the exhilaration of the Live Auction, there was never a dull moment at the 2021 Corndog Kickoff.