Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Over the weekend, I took a road trip to Chicago. I visited family, ate deep dish pizza, and ventured downtown. There is some serious dedication to the St. Patrick’s Day holiday in the city of Chicago. Crowds of people were up early watching the parade, standing on both sides of the freshly dyed green river and each street corner pub had a long line before noon. 

 

I am wearing green today and this March, I’ve enjoyed a Shamrock Shake but I’m passing on the corned beef and cabbage.  I haven’t found a four-leaf clover, seen a leprechaun or listened to the bagpipes. St. Patrick’s Day is one day a year where some pretty interesting traditions are celebrated. On my mind, there are only 148 days until the Iowa State Fair celebrates its own set of traditions. 

 

Just yesterday, a woman called me and ordered a brick by the sheep barn. She talked about how each year her family would end up sitting underneath a tree near the barn. Generations of 4-H’ers in her family would show their livestock. After ribbons and awards, she decided it was time to make those memories more permanent with an engraved brick. 

 

Parades go hand in hand with holidays. Last year the State Fair had two! An estimated 200 floats, animals, vehicles and performers paraded down Grand Avenue from downtown Des Moines to the Fairgrounds. During the Fair, the Veterans Day parade route loops around the Fairgrounds and celebrates the military throughout Iowa. 

 

It's early but concessionaires are busy creating new food items to offer during this year’s Fair - something exciting to catch the attention of the crowds. Each food stand is sure to have the traditional favorites available too. 

 

Just like me, out-of-state tourist travel to see Chicago’s bright green river. There is no doubt that people travel across the country to see the Butter Cow. 

 

With all of the traditions, it’s safe to say that Iowa State Fair fans are dedicated to the Fair. We have staff that works year round, volunteers that put in countless hours, and Fair-goers that never miss a day. We’ll continue to prepare for this year’s event. Fair-goers: enjoy today’s celebration and keep counting down the days to the Iowa State Fair.