2026 Iowa State Fair Recap – August 19, 20, 21
The Blue Ribbon Foundation has officially reached the halfway point of the Iowa State Fair! It’s a bittersweet feeling. As a staff, we want time to slow down so we can savor every minute, but we’re also beginning to feel the fatigue that comes with the long days. The adrenaline, excitement, and plenty of fried food keep our staff going strong!
With the continued support of Cookies Food Products, we were proud to honor three additional Iowan of the Day winners:
Ruth Ann Mohr – Odebolt
Ruth Ann has spent a lifetime caring for others. After a 30-year career as a registered nurse, she continues to serve her community by running errands for homebound residents, caring for community flower beds, and donating more than 25 gallons of blood throughout her lifetime. Ruth Ann also volunteers through her church, the American Legion Auxiliary, her local nursing home auxiliary, and Odebolt’s annual Creek Days celebration. Through her compassion and generosity, Ruth Ann has made a lasting impact on the Odebolt community.
Ronald Ricker – Des Moines
The late Ron Ricker lived a life defined by service, leadership, and a deep love for the Iowa State Fair. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and building a career as an attorney, Ron dedicated his time to giving back by mentoring Iowa State University students, supporting charitable causes, and contributing to Dowling Catholic High School’s mission work. A lifelong Fair enthusiast, he proudly participated in the Iowa State Fair Parade and supported the Fair for decades. His legacy of generosity and service continues to inspire Iowans.
David Colbert – Danbury
David has spent decades strengthening his community through service, leadership, and a commitment to small-town Iowa. A former mayor, city council member, ambulance volunteer, and school board member, David has dedicated countless hours to improving Danbury. As the owner of the third-generation Colbert’s Market, he supports local organizations, schools, and first responders while leading efforts to preserve important community spaces, including the Danbury Recreation Center. Known as “Mr. Danbury,” David’s humble leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on his hometown.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation welcomed Iowa Legislators to the Fair to provide an update on infrastructure improvements across the historic Fairgrounds. Peter Cownie, Blue Ribbon Foundation Executive Director, and Jeremy Parsons, Iowa State Fair CEO, each shared an overview of upcoming projects and highlighted how the Legislature is supporting youth across Iowa by providing funding for improvements to the Fairgrounds.
A big thank you to The Outside Scoop for serving up delicious ice cream at several Foundation events throughout the Fair! Their generous support helped make each event a little sweeter, and we are grateful for this wonderful partnership.
On Wednesday and Thursday (along with the final Sunday of the Fair), the Blue Ribbon Foundation hosted 221 games of BINGO on the Grand Concourse, raising an impressive $20,200! Half of the proceeds, $10,100, went directly to the Blue Ribbon Foundation, while the other half was paid out to winners throughout the games. The BINGO tent was filled with excitement, giving Fairgoers of all ages the opportunity to enjoy this timeless favorite while supporting the Foundation.
As we celebrated America’s 250th birthday, the Fairgrounds were filled with plenty of red, white and blue - and lots of Iowa State Fair “Fair Spirit” merchandise!
The 2026 label pin, charm, commemorative coin, hats, magnets, mugs, socks, shirts, tea towels, shot glasses, thimbles, wine glasses, and koozies were all popular items in the merchandise booths. If you didn’t get everything you wanted at the Fair, you can still shop the online State Fair Store. These items also make great stocking stuffers for those already thinking ahead to the holiday season!
The month of August gives the Foundation a chance to “show off” the many improvements made across the Fairgrounds. This year, Fairgoers had the opportunity to enjoy several completed projects, including:
• New fans in the Outdoor Arena
• Ag Building roof replacement – Final Phase
• Additional ADA seating in the Grandstand
• 4-H Exhibit Building display fixture replacement – Phase II
• Campgrounds restroom renovation – Phase II
• New show ring and portable pens in the Sheep Barn
To our Blue Ribbon Foundation donors who attend the Iowa State Fair - thank you! We know some of you explore the Fair for one day, while others make the Fairgrounds your home away from home and attend all 11 days. No matter how you experience the Fair, we are incredibly thankful for your continued support and appreciate everything you do to help preserve and improve the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
We hope you enjoyed the Fair as much as we did. Only 2 days left to recap!
