Iowa State Fair Schedule: What You Need To Know In 2023
A Personal Experience
As a lifelong resident of Iowa, I have been attending the Iowa State Fair for as long as I can remember. This annual event is a highlight of the summer for many Iowans, and for good reason. The fair offers a wide range of attractions, from amazing food to exciting rides to top-notch concerts. But one of the most important things to know about the Iowa State Fair is the schedule. In this article, I will share everything you need to know about the Iowa State Fair schedule for 2023.
The Basics
The Iowa State Fair takes place annually in Des Moines, Iowa, and typically runs for 11 days in August. In 2023, the fair will run from August 10th to August 20th. The fairgrounds open at 7:00 am each day and close at 12:00 am, except for the final day of the fair, when the fairgrounds close at 9:00 pm.
List of Events and Competitions
The Iowa State Fair offers a huge variety of events and competitions, from livestock shows to cooking contests to talent competitions. Some of the highlights of the 2023 fair include:
- Livestock shows for cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and more
- Agricultural competitions for crops, fruits, and vegetables
- Cooking contests for everything from pies to barbecue
- Talent competitions for singers, dancers, and musicians
- Carnival rides and games
- Concerts by top performers
Detail Schedule Guide
If you want to make the most of your time at the Iowa State Fair, it’s important to have a detailed schedule guide. You can find a full schedule of events and competitions on the Iowa State Fair website, but here are some highlights:
Thursday, August 10th
- 7:00 am – Fairgrounds open
- 9:00 am – Cattle show
- 1:00 pm – Sheep show
- 7:30 pm – Grandstand concert: Luke Bryan
- 12:00 am – Fairgrounds close
Friday, August 11th
- 7:00 am – Fairgrounds open
- 9:00 am – Swine show
- 1:00 pm – Rabbit show
- 7:30 pm – Grandstand concert: Miranda Lambert
- 12:00 am – Fairgrounds close
Schedule Table
| Date | Event | Time |
|---|---|---|
| August 10th | Cattle show | 9:00 am |
| August 10th | Sheep show | 1:00 pm |
| August 10th | Grandstand concert: Luke Bryan | 7:30 pm |
| August 11th | Swine show | 9:00 am |
| August 11th | Rabbit show | 1:00 pm |
| August 11th | Grandstand concert: Miranda Lambert | 7:30 pm |
Question and Answer
Q: What is the admission fee for the Iowa State Fair?
A: The admission fee for the Iowa State Fair varies depending on the day. In 2023, admission prices range from $5 to $14, with children under age 5 getting in for free.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks to the Iowa State Fair?
A: Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks to the Iowa State Fair. However, there are also plenty of delicious food options available for purchase.
Q: Are there any discounts available for admission to the Iowa State Fair?
A: Yes, there are several discounts available, including discounts for seniors, military members, and college students. You can also purchase advance tickets online for a discounted price.
Q: What are the hours for the Iowa State Fair?
A: The Iowa State Fairgrounds open at 7:00 am each day and close at 12:00 am, except for the final day of the fair, when the fairgrounds close at 9:00 pm.
FAQs
Q: What is the best day to attend the Iowa State Fair?
A: The best day to attend the Iowa State Fair depends on your interests. If you are interested in concerts, check out the schedule to see which performers are playing on which days. If you want to avoid crowds, try attending on a weekday rather than a weekend.
Q: What should I wear to the Iowa State Fair?
A: The Iowa State Fair is a casual event, so wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat, as well.
Q: What is the best way to get to the Iowa State Fair?
A: The Iowa State Fair provides shuttle buses from several locations in Des Moines. You can also drive to the fairgrounds and park in one of the designated parking areas.
With this guide to the Iowa State Fair schedule, you can make the most of your time at this amazing event. Whether you want to see top performers, sample delicious food, or compete in a talent competition, the Iowa State Fair has something for everyone.