The Blue Ribbon Foundation holds a deep connection to every improvement project across the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. Each renovation tells a story, often shared by donors whose family traditions and cherished memories are tied to every barn and building. This summer, one project felt especially personal to our staff, perhaps because it unfolded right outside our office door.
We witnessed firsthand how the space was used in the past, watched the transformation from demolition to construction, and shared in the excitement as the new vision came to life. The Variety Star Playground is more than just another upgrade, it’s a project that captured our hearts and continues to bring smiles every time we see it.
After the 2024 Iowa State Fair, a mother sent us a heartfelt message. She had brought her 8-year-old daughter, who has a physical disability, to the Fair for the first time. When they tried to use the existing playground equipment, it became clear that it wasn’t accessible - they couldn’t play at all. Her daughter gave the playground a 0 out of 10 on her personal “fun” scale. That message hit home, and we knew immediately: we must do better.
The capital improvement involved transforming the current play area into the inclusive “Variety Star Playground” at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. This upgrade was needed to create a fully accessible space where children and adults of all abilities could play together. By removing physical barriers and promoting inclusivity, the new playground ensures that everyone, regardless of mobility or developmental needs, can enjoy a fun, safe, and welcoming environment all year-round.
The project was developed through a partnership between the Blue Ribbon Foundation, and Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa. Together, they set a goal to raise $700,000 for the new playground, with the Blue Ribbon Foundation aiming to raise $300,000 and Variety committed to funding the remaining balance.
The Iowa State Fair also collaborated with existing partners to provide in-kind services, including utility marking, removal of the existing equipment, ground leveling, and landscaping.
The initiative was thoughtfully planned to not only improve accessibility but also enhance the space with an agricultural theme and features designed to encourage physical activity and imaginative play.
The playground site was located on a hillside, making it challenging to design a layout that could manage the 5% or less grade ADA standard for the playground area as well as for any sidewalks leading to the site. Additionally, several existing trees needed to be preserved to maintain essential shade.
Designing a space that meets accessibility standards while still being engaging, themed, and durable enough for year-round use adds complexity to both the planning and construction phases.
The project also had an extremely tight timeline, with the entire build needing to be completed from start to finish within just five months. This included the manufacturing and delivery of the customized playground equipment.
The new Variety Star Playground is expected to provide long-lasting benefits by offering a fully inclusive recreational space that serves children and families throughout the year, not just during the Fair.
The Iowa State Fairgrounds are a point of pride for the city and our state and serves as an economic generator, hosting more than 350+ event days throughout the year.
It will enhance the overall Fairgrounds experience, promote physical and social development among kids of all abilities, and become a valued destination for the local community, especially families on Des Moines’ east side, which lacks any substantially accessible playgrounds.
The playground will also support the Fair's mission of being welcoming, inclusive, and family-friendly.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive, with strong enthusiasm from families, community members, and partners who recognize the importance of inclusive play spaces. Many have expressed gratitude for the effort to make the Fairgrounds more accessible and engaging for all visitors. And, post-Fair, there has been a marked increase in daily usage of the playground.
Thank you to the generous donors who made this project possible. We can’t wait to see firsthand all of the fun!
