The Iowa State Fair, set to open August 8 in Des Moines, is already making headlines with major renovations, new entertainment, and unique food offerings.
Organizers have confirmed over $20 million in improvements this year, aimed at enhancing accessibility and convenience for attendees. Major updates include a renovated Horse Barn, redesigned playground areas, and the brand-new Ron and Bev Shivers Family Plaza. These additions are part of a multi-year effort to modernize key parts of the fairgrounds while keeping its rich tradition intact.
According to the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation, the Horse Barn project alone accounts for $13 million. The overhaul features new masonry, structural repairs, improved restrooms, and upgraded windows. Fairgoers will also notice a larger pedestrian entrance at Gate 13, designed to improve crowd flow.
Highlights of the 2025 Iowa State Fair:
- Dates: August 8–18, 2025
- Theme: “Fair Sweet Fair”
- Location: Des Moines, Iowa
- Expected Attendance: Over 1 million visitors
- Major Renovations: Horse Barn, Shivers Plaza, Fun Forest playground
Table of Contents
New Food Finalists and Fan Favorites
Food continues to be a major attraction at the Iowa State Fair, and this year’s lineup does not disappoint. The Top 3 new foods of 2025 include:
- Three Little Pigs: Bacon-wrapped ham balls with a tangy dipping sauce
- Scotcharoo Ice Cream Shake: A twist on a Midwest classic
- Deep-Fried Sweet Corn Nuggets: A buttery, crunchy indulgence
Voting for the top food item runs through August 14, with the winner announced August 15. These items were chosen from a list of 11 brand-new entries introduced this year, with fan reactions already buzzing on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Additionally, the fair is debuting several new signature beverages. From the alcohol-free Cotton Candy Frappe to the boozy Buckin’ Berry Lemonade, the 2025 drink competition is also up and running. Guests can vote for their favorites using the Iowa State Fair mobile app.
Grandstand Concert Lineup
The Grandstand shows are attracting strong ticket sales, with several performances already approaching sell-out status. Major acts include:
- Pitbull (August 10)
- Megan Moroney & T-Pain (August 12)
- Def Leppard (August 14)
- Kidz Bop Live (August 18)
Ticket sales for Megan Moroney and Pitbull have each surpassed 14,000, according to Iowa State Fair officials, making them among the most anticipated shows of the summer.
Free Events at Elwell Family Park
For those seeking free entertainment, Elwell Family Park returns with eight days of events, all included with general admission. Highlights include:
- Tractor Pulls
- ATV and UTV Races
- Figure 8 Car Racing
- Latino Charro Horsemanship Shows
- Lineman Rodeo
These events have been scheduled strategically throughout the fair’s duration, offering something for everyone—without the need for extra tickets.
Special Campaign Appearances and Policy News
Former President Donald Trump visited the fairgrounds last month to support the launch of the “America250” campaign, which will lead up to the U.S. Semiquincentennial in 2026. During the visit, he highlighted his support for rural communities and family farms. His speech was well-attended and gained national media coverage.
On the legislative front, Iowa lawmakers recently passed a bill protecting residents’ right to set off personal fireworks on July 3, 4, and December 31. This bill directly supports fair-related celebrations and patriotic displays expected to increase next year.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Renovations | $20M+ in upgrades, including barn, plaza, playground |
| Concert Headliners | Pitbull, Megan Moroney, Def Leppard, T-Pain |
| New Foods | 11 total, 3 finalists chosen for public vote |
| Free Events | Tractor pulls, charro shows, races, lineman rodeo |
| Attendance | Estimated over 1 million |
| Fair Dates | August 8–18, 2025 |
With upgraded facilities, new attractions, and a dynamic entertainment schedule, this year’s Iowa State Fair is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions in recent memory. From deep-fried favorites to chart-topping performances, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Planning to attend or already made your picks for best food? Share your fair favorites in the comments and stay tuned for more updates throughout the week.