DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowans did not get to come together around the Butter Cow last year, but the cows, corn dogs and crowds are coming back Thursday.
Day 1 of the 2021 fair began with the Opening Day Historical Walking Tour at 8 a.m., which started at the DNR Building. That was followed by the opening ceremonies at 9 a.m. at the Bruce L. Rastetter 4-H Exhibits Building.
"After all the challenges and uncertainty of 2020, I can tell you I couldn't be happier standing here today, getting ready to ceremoniously open the 2021 Iowa State Fair," Iowa State Fair Manager & CEO Gary Slater said.
Gov. Kim Reynolds and Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg were also in attendance.
"You know, every year for more than a century and a half, the Iowa State Fair has showcased and celebrated the very, very best of our state," Reynolds said Thursday. "From agriculture to industry, arts and culture, to some pretty darn good food."
"It's a family tradition shared by generations of Iowa families, and that includes my own," she continued. "And they are coming from every corner of our state, they're coming from across the country and honestly from around the world to experience this fair."
Local 5 and CW Iowa 23 are bringing exciting experiences to you, from live newscasts to a real-life Local 5 Weather Lab experience. The CW Iowa 23 booth will be located on Grand Avenue, and the Local 5 Weather team can be found near the Giant Slide.
Both booths will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day of the fair.
► Find full fair coverage at weareiowa.com/fair.
► Find the latest health and safety precautions here.
Watch the opening ceremonies on YouTube