One Week Away!

It’s officially one week until the 2023 Corndog Kickoff Benefit Auction and Food Grazing Party! I am so excited to be able to attend my very first Kickoff. We have done so much preparation for it, and I cannot wait for you all to see it. 

The Kickoff will occur on Saturday, July 8, in the William C. Knapp Varied Industries, with the doors opening at 6:30 pm. This night will be a night in paradise for our Jimmy Buffet-themed event in “Margaritaville.” You will be able to experience your night with many things to be a part of. Here is an overview of what you kind find on your night at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.

The night will kick off with doors opening at 6:30 pm, and this is where the fun begins. Once you walk in, you will have a plethora of options to choose from as you can get your favorite Fair food from one of the many vendors without any additional cost, browse the auction items available, participate in one of the many activities, and so much more!

A key component of this event is the live and silent auctions. The live auction will begin at 8:00 pm the night of the event, so make sure you register for your bid card to get your assigned bid number. The silent auction will open on Friday, July 7, at 10:00 am and close on Saturday, July 8, at 8:30 pm. To participate in the silent auction, you do not have to be present at the event, and you can go to this link to register, browse, and bid on items. Some awesome packages are available, so you do not want to miss out on this! You can get a sneak peek of the items through this year’s auction book.

Along with auctions, there will be many activities attendees can participate in at the event. The following activities will be offered: Rags to Riches, Mystery Prize Game, Dining Delights, and Spin Wheel. To participate in these activities, all you have to do is donate an amount to the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon and join in on the fun!

Now all this seems like a great time to me, don’t you think? Along with all of these fun activities, you can also listen to the live music band of Saints & Sinners, ride the famous SkyGlider across the Fairgrounds, and enjoy a spectacular firework show. If you want to attend the event, it’s not too late! Tickets are available for purchase TODAY ONLY, for $100, and will increase to $125 beginning tomorrow, July 1. Hurry and get your tickets today for that discounted price! Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Foundation at 515-262-3111 Ext. 371.

Another reminder as well is that tickets are on sale for the exclusive premiere of the Our Great State Fair documentary. Friends of Iowa PBS has partnered with the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation for a special premiere screening of the film on Thursday, July 20 at 6 p.m. A limited number of tickets are available for this special fundraiser. Only 300 lucky Fairgoers will be able to be a part of this exciting experience, so get your tickets soon! Ticket are $50 person and are available for purchase online or by calling the Foundation at 515-262-3111 Ext. 371

I can’t wait to see you all in paradise next Saturday, July 8!

- Faith Kuehl, Business Relations Intern