Have all the fun you want - we’ll make more!

This week was the International Association of Fairs and Exposition’s annual convention and trade show. The IAFE is an organization that promotes the development and improvement of agricultural fairs, shows, and expositions. The 1,100 members of the IAFE are from around the world and represent county, state and regional events. 

 

The convention and trade show, held in Las Vegas, is the largest event for fairs, shows and expos. Convention attendees network and learn from each other/professionals during the four days of workshops, seminars, and round table discussions. The trade show allows companies to showcase themselves for event booking, product, and service needs.

 

Several Iowa State Fair staff members and Blue Ribbon Foundation staff members, Peter and Robin attended the convention this week. There is no doubt the staff learned from other Fairs and Foundations from across the country. I’m excited to hear about the trip and what information we can use at our Foundation. Since the Blue Ribbon Foundation has been around since 1993, I'm sure Robin and Peter were able to share ideas with newly created Foundations. 

 

The theme for this year’s convention was “Have all the fun you want! We’ll make more”.  I think this theme is perfect for a Fair event! The Iowa State Fair is filled with excited things to see and do each year. There are the classic must see exhibits and foods you have to eat, but the Iowa State Fair also tries to create something new. Our staff attends conventions to brainstorm ideas for ways to continually improve our Fair and Foundation events throughout the year. 

 

The Blue Ribbon Foundation holds our fundraising event, the Corndog Kickoff every July. Fairgoers gear up for the Iowa State Fair by enjoying Fair food while bidding on auction packages. It’s my goal to keep the event successful and more entertaining each year. This winter we select the theme for next summer’s event. I’ve got two Corndog Kickoff’s under my belt – “Rock'n Round the Grounds” and “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”. I’m determined that the 2016 event will be one for the books!

 

So stay tuned Fairgoers and Foundation supporters – the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is working hard to make more fun for 2016! 

 

2015 centerpieces for "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year" theme:

 

2014 decorations for "Rock'n Round the Grounds" theme:

 

A shelf in my office closet with years of Corndog Kickoff plans/ideas: