DES MOINES, Iowa — It's almost time to catch Fair Fever: The 2024 Iowa State Fair is exactly one month away.
Whether you're an avid fair attendee or a first-time visitor, here are some of the newest things to see and do at the fairgrounds.
New events
There's more to do at the Iowa State Fair than just eat (although, we'll admit, eating is a big part).
Check out new events including a glass blowing show, the all-Iowa Fair View Farmers Market, Kids Can Cook demonstrations, Cowboy Boot Camp, Llama Love: Hooves on Adventure and more.
New hours
Stay at the fairgrounds from dawn to dusk. The fair will be open 8 a.m. to midnight Aug. 8-17. On-site ticket sales and entry/re-entry will end at 10 p.m..
On the last day of the fair, Aug. 18, the fairgrounds will be open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., with on-site ticket sales and entry ending at 7 p.m.
More thrills
Head to Elwell Family Park for free events such as the Antique Tractor Pull (Aug. 8), Short Course UTV & ATV Cup (Aug. 10), Charros performances (Aug. 11) and the Garden Tractor Pull (Aug. 16).
Aside from free events, you can also check out the Outlaw Truck and Tractor Pull (Aug. 13 and 14), Demolition Derby (Aug. 17) and Figure 8 races (Aug. 18) for a small fee. Buy discount Elwell Family Park tickets here.
New locations
Some of your favorite events have a new home this year. Chainsaw Carvers will move to Expo Hill, while the Art Fair will move to the Cultural Center Courtyard.
Fairgrounds improvements
The Iowa State Fair is putting in the work to improve your fairgrounds experience. This year, fairgoers will find additional ADA parking, improved restrooms, extra water bottle filling stations, new shade areas and more picnic tables and benches.
Click here to view a detailed map of the Iowa State Fairgrounds