The Iowa State Fair welcomed the return of the beloved truck and tractor pull during the 2021 Iowa State Fair. It had been 4 years since the ground rumbled from mighty tractors at the Fairgrounds and fans were overjoyed to see them back. The Iowa State Fair also hosted a monster truck rally and demolition derby.
The return of dirt events was made possible by a generous $2 million donation from Denny and Candy Elwell for the development of the Elwell Family Park, a brand new outdoor events area on the northwest corner of the Fairgrounds.
In 2022, further enhancements were made to the Elwell Family Park. The grandstand increased by 1,000 seats, while a roof and a press box were added to the structure. In 2023, the 3rd stage of the multi-phase project added permanent restroom facilities.