The Fairgrounds in the Fall

This photo is from 2007 during the first Fairgrounds 5K. Many things have changed on the Fairgrounds since then, but I think the picture highlights how pretty the Iowa State Fairgrounds are in the fall.

This photo might seem strange to some Fair-goers because there are only two women on the street. This never happens during the Fair! The streets are always filled with people and food vendors. The Susan Knapp Amphitheater looks a lot different in this picture too.  During the Fair, the stage hosts entertainment and crowds are gathered for the free concerts.

To me, the Fairgrounds seem like a completely different place after August. I have been working for the Blue Ribbon Foundation for almost two months and it still seems weird to drive on the Fairgrounds every day. The gates are open, the streets are clear, and the craziest part - it’s quiet.   

One thing I have noticed lately is the number of people that call our office to see where we are located. The Blue Ribbon Foundation office building is not open to the public during the Fair. Here are just a few of the comments I’ve heard this week:

“Are the Fairgrounds open year round?” -  “I’ve never even noticed this building before.” - "It's a lot easier driving the hills now than walking during the Fair.”

One reason the Fairgrounds 5K was started seven years ago was to give Fair-lovers the opportunity to see the beautiful Fairgrounds without the hustle and bustle of the Fair.

Over the last week, I’ve been working on promotions for this year’s event.  I am updating trivia signs, goodie bag items, and a new shirt design. New for this year's event - there will be corndogs after the race for all participants to enjoy. (Thank you Campbell’s.)

I will be busy right up until the event trying to boost attendance. Last week I was interviewed on KJJY with Hatfield and McCoy. Tomorrow I will be on KCWI’s morning show. On Saturday, the “Chase the Cow Kids’ Run” mascot will be at the Des Moines Marathon Kids’ Expo. These are each fun ways to help spread the word about the 5K.

Just a reminder that the entry fees increase on October 21, so Click Here to register!

I am keeping my fingers crossed for beautiful weather just like in the photo. (Only 18 days away!)