Happy New Year! While the calendar has just turned over, the Iowa State Fair has been busy planning for August 2025 ever since the conclusion of the 2024 Iowa State Fair.
A heartfelt thank you to all of our generous supporters who contributed to last year’s improvement projects. Here’s a glimpse at some of the exciting renovations happening this year!
Back the Barns:
The renovation of the livestock barns is making great strides! The Blue Ribbon Foundation’s “Back the Barns” fundraiser offers a meaningful way for supporters of agriculture to contribute to this vital project. Enhancing these facilities ensures people have an exceptional space to compete and showcase their dedication and hard work each August—an essential part of the Iowa State Fair’s mission.
Horse Barn: The two-year, $13.1 million renovation project includes the following:
- Masonry, sheet metal, and roofing restoration
- Exterior and interior painting
- Repair and replacement of exterior doors and windows
- New concrete floor with radiant heat
- Relocated offices on the west end
- Remodel of existing restrooms and add new restrooms which meet current accessibility standards
- Relocate covered outdoor wash rack and add a new interior wash rack area
- New portable stalls
- Enhance ventilation
- New electrical service and lighting
- New fire suppression system
Phase one of the project (exterior painting, window replacement, masonry repairs, and north restroom renovation and construction) will occur prior to the 2025 Iowa State Fair. Phase two, encompassing the rest of the project, will begin immediately following the 2025 Fair and be completed in time for the 2026 Fair.
Variety Star Playground:
In 2025, the Iowa State Fairgrounds will welcome an exciting and inclusive new addition—the “Variety Star Playground”! The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is proud to partner with Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa to bring this special project to life.
As part of the Fair’s commitment to offering something for everyone, the current Fun Forest play area will be transformed into an accessible playground for children and adults of all abilities. This innovative space will foster connection and joy, allowing everyone to play together in a welcoming environment.
The new playground will feature an agricultural theme, complete with farm animals, an accessible ramp, and a smooth, easy-to-navigate surface, all designed to spark creativity and encourage outdoor fun. And don’t worry—the beloved wooden train and stage will remain in the Fun Forest, ensuring the perfect blend of tradition and innovation! Crews will start removing current equipment this winter/spring with the final product ready for kids in August.
Thank you for supporting these two exciting projects! If you’d like to contribute, donations can be made online. Be sure to stay tuned for updates on more improvements planned for 2025!