The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation’s 2026 Corndog Kickoff Benefit Auction and Fair Food Grazing Party was a tremendous success, raising $851,250 to support the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds.
Held in the William C. Knapp Varied Industries Building, this year’s "American Classic" themed event welcomed 2,200 supporters for an evening featuring 30 Iowa State Fair foods, Sky Glider rides, raffle games, fireworks, and exciting live and silent auctions.
“The Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation is incredibly thankful for the generosity of everyone who helped make this year’s Corndog Kickoff a success,” said Peter Cownie, Blue Ribbon Foundation Executive Director. “Every contribution helps us preserve the traditions of the Iowa State Fair while investing in improvements that will benefit the next generation of Fairgoers.”
Funds raised will help support ongoing improvement projects across the Fairgrounds, including enhancements to the livestock barns, updated campground restrooms, roof replacements, and other preservation efforts. Fairgoers can experience many of these improvements during the 2026 Iowa State Fair, August 13–23.