2024 Iowa State Fair Recap – August 8, 9, 10
The 2024 Iowa State Fair was a record-breaker! Delicious food, outstanding entertainment and fun competitions combined with perfect weather - created major success! The Fair welcomed 1,182,682 Fairgoers over the 11-day stretch. The Blue Ribbon Foundation had a wonderful Iowa State Fair and we hope all of our supporters did too. Let’s recap the first 3 days.
Opening ceremonies were held at the newly renovated Sheep Barn. The renovations included:
- Remodeled office spaces
- Installation of new underground storm sewer on the north, west, and east sides
- New roofing on all lower level areas including wood sheathing repair and replacement
- Remodeled existing restrooms and added brand-new restrooms to meet current accessibility standards
- Repainting of the entire interior of the building
- New sun-shading for the show arena
- Restoration of brick and terracotta masonry will be completed before the 2025 Iowa State Fair
The renovated Sheep Barn was enjoyed by all exhibitors and Fairgoers during this year’s Iowa State Fair! “Whip,” the 5-year old Suffolk ram owned by Craig Fetters of Lucas, won first place in the Big Ram Contest. Whip weighed in at 498 pounds. A total of 7 rams competed in the event this year, making it the largest field of entrants in over a decade.
A special thank you to all of the donors that have joined the Back the Barns Fundraiser, specifically supporting Livestock Barn improvements. Work will start on the Horse Barn this fall with renovation plans for the Swine and Cattle Barn in full swing. Please consider joining the Back the Barns campaign to support our mission.
Fairgoers donate to the Blue Ribbon Foundation throughout the year making improvements to the historic Fairgrounds possible. Additional projects for 2024 included a new campground restroom, paved handicapped parking, and the conversion of some water fountains into water bottle filling stations. Thank you for making the Iowa State Fair even more enjoyable for all Fairgoers.
Did you see 647 people wearing bright blue “Iowa State Fair” t-shirts selling water or merchandise? Those would be the proud Blue Ribbon Foundation volunteers. Every year, Blue Ribbon Foundation volunteers prove that success is possible because they sign up, show up, smile and work hard to help us showcase the Iowa State Fairgrounds. We could not do this without their generosity of time and spirit. Watch this highlight video!
The volunteers stay busying selling official Iowa State Fair souvenirs. The Foundation sold 12,000 t-shirts! Other popular items included the 22nd Edition Cookbook, Butter Cow Earrings, and the Pork Chop on a Stick ornament. The Foundation also partnered with Mrs. Hand Painted to sell small decorative wooden tiles. There are still souvenirs available for sale online in the State Fair Store.
We were busy the first 3 days of the Fair celebrating the Iowan of the Day winners. The Foundation and Cookies Food Products partner to honor outstanding Iowans at each year’s Iowa State Fair. We look for individuals across the state who personify the greatness of Iowa with a strong work ethic, loyalty to helping others, and an exceptional sense of Iowa pride. These three ladies are top-notch!
Marilyn Sokol, Belle Plaine: Marilyn has dedicated over 17 years to coordinating volunteer programs at the Benton County Community Center. She leads a group of 16 volunteers on Wednesdays, overseeing projects such as making pillows for hospital patients, crafting blankets and treats for nursing homes, and providing food support for the community. Additionally, Marilyn assists in finding transportation for individuals needing rides to medical appointments.
Pat Burch, Norwalk: Pat has been a dedicated volunteer for various organizations for many years, including the Order of the Eastern Star and the American Red Cross of Greater Iowa. Recently, she has focused on the National Quilts of Valor Foundation and has provided quilts to over 250 veterans and active duty service personnel since 2019. Her efforts have made a significant impact on American heroes across the state, country, and even globally. On June 21st, 2024, Pat organized over 60 people in four separate locations to make Quilts of Valor on a single day, resulting in over 50 finished quilts. This demonstrates her exceptional commitment to supporting and honoring veterans and active duty service members.
Roxanne Cogil, Jamaica: Roxanne is a dedicated volunteer who is deeply involved in various community organizations and initiatives. She is actively engaged with the Yale Community Club, assisting with the coordination of events and fundraisers. Additionally, Roxanne is committed to serving the Jamaica Lions Club, where she focuses on fundraising for community projects. Her involvement extends to supporting youth activities, agricultural initiatives, and advocating for individuals with disabilities. Overall, Roxanne's extensive volunteer work demonstrates her unwavering commitment to serving her community in various meaningful ways.
Since the Iowa State Fair came to a close, Foundation staff are continuing to clean up and review our operations - all while catching up on some much needed sleep.
