Welcome to the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation’s blog!
We are a non-profit organization with a mission to raise funds for the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. Since our inception in 1993, the Foundation has raised more than $200 million through individual contributions, state appropriations, in-kind services, and corporate, federal and state grants.
Please follow our blog to learn more about our organization.
An exciting and inclusive “Variety Star Playground” is coming to the Iowa State Fairgrounds in 2025! The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is proud to announce a partnership with Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa to bring this special addition to…
MoreBlue Ribbon Foundation Hosts Online Auction to Benefit Historic Iowa State Fairgrounds
From the very start, Fairgoers have cherished souvenirs from their visits to the iconic Iowa State Fair. The Blue Ribbon Foundation continues this tradition by offering a variety of…
MoreWhen you hear "summer internship," people often think about mundane tasks, coffee runs, and an addition for the resume. After spending a summer as a Blue Ribbon Foundation intern, we hope students learn that it can be so much more than that. It’s a time to learn, to connect, and to grow both…
MoreThe Blue Ribbon Foundation spends each fall reviewing what worked well and where we can improve. We strive to continue to grow each and every year.
A few 2024 Iowa State Fair highlights and fun facts to share:
As the fall newsletter hits mailboxes, here is an update on what the Blue Ribbon Foundation is doing today and a brief flashback as to what was happening 10, 20 and 30 years ago.
What’s happening at the Blue Ribbon Foundation this fall?
Time to Shop
The Blue Ribbon Foundation is dedicated to enhancing and preserving the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. One way you can support our mission is through the sale of merchandise in our online store. When you shop in the online…
MoreThe Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is excited to announce openings for three dynamic internship positions. As a member of the Blue Ribbon Foundation team, you will gain invaluable hands-on experience, contribute to major fundraising initiatives, and play a key role in maintaining lasting…
More2024 Iowa State Fair Recap – August 17 and 18
The final two days of the Iowa State Fair are a whirlwind. One might think it slows down toward the end of the Iowa State Fair…think again! The Blue Ribbon Foundation celebrated our final Iowan of the Day winner:
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More2024 Iowa State Fair Recap – August 14, 15, 16
The Blue Ribbon Foundation’s days during the Iowa State Fair are filled with welcoming our donors to the great celebration of Iowa. Staff work hard to showcase all of the amazing renovations made possible because of our loyal…
More2024 Iowa State Fair Recap – August 11, 12, 13
After the first few days of the Iowa State Fair, the Blue Ribbon Foundation staff are in a good rhythm. The full time staff have a combined 56 years of experience but each summer we welcome…
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