The Blue Ribbon Foundation was established in 1993 with an ambitious mission: to renovate the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds, one building at a time. Thanks to the support of Iowa State Fair enthusiasts from across the state and beyond, the Foundation has raised more than $200 million, enhancing the Fairgrounds for more than three decades!
Over the years, the efforts have included major projects, such as constructing brand-new buildings, as well as countless smaller upgrades spread across the 445-acre property. Here are just a few highlights of the improvements made along the way.
1993 – 2024:
• Grandfather’s Barn, 1994
• Robert G. Horner and Sheri Avis Horner Service Center, 1995
• Ye Old Mill, 1996
• Anne & Bill Riley Stage, 1997
• Hy-Vee Fun Forest, 1999
• Livestock Pavilion Roof, 2000
• William C. Knapp Varied Industries Building, 2001
• Legacy Terrace, 2002
• Richard L. Easter Museum Complex, 2003
• Little Hands on the Farm, 2004
• Ronald and Margaret Kenyon Gallery, 2005
• Susan Knapp Amphitheater, 2006
• Paul R. Knapp Animal Learning Center, 2007
• Stalling Barn, 2008
• Elwell Family Food Center, 2009
• Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center, 2010
• Expo Hill, 2011
• Patty & Jim Cownie Cultural Center, 2014
• MidAmerican Energy Stage, 2015
• Ruan Plaza, 2015
• Oman Family Youth Inn, 2016
• Midway, 2017
• Krause Group Stage, 2018
• Admission Gate, 2019
• 4-H Building, 2020
• Elwell Family Park, 2021
• Alliant Energy Landing, 2022
• Public Safety Building, 2023
• Sheep Barn, 2024
These are just the major projects. Year-round, crews work tirelessly to maintain all the facilities, repair broken items, fix sidewalks, and handle countless other upkeep tasks.
2025:
• Horse Barn
• Variety Star Playground
• You can support these two current project with an online donation. Thank you!
As the years go by and progress continues, the Blue Ribbon Foundation remains focused on the future. To ensure the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds are preserved and maintained for generations to come, the Foundation established an endowment. By contributing to the endowment, you provide a gift with both immediate impact and lasting benefits.
Endowment donations are carefully invested. A portion of the annual income from these investments is used to address current renovation needs on the Fairgrounds, while the remaining funds are reinvested to provide ongoing support far into the future.
As we welcome 2025, we extend heartfelt thanks to our loyal donors who have supported us since the beginning. These dedicated Fairgoers have witnessed the remarkable transformation of the Fairgrounds since 1993. We are equally grateful to the supporters who joined our mission over the past year.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation’s success is built on the generosity and dedication of Fairgoers, volunteers, and donors like you. Thank you.
