Welcome to the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation’s blog!
We are a non-profit organization with a mission to raise funds for the renovation and preservation of the historic Iowa State Fairgrounds. Since our inception in 1993, the Foundation has raised more than $200 million through individual contributions, state appropriations, in-kind services, and corporate, federal and state grants.
Please follow our blog to learn more about our organization.
One of my favorite relaxing activities is painting. It’s something you can do while catching up with friends or by yourself when you want a quiet moment to let your creativity flow. What I find the most difficult is deciding what I want to paint and how to begin. If you feel the same way, a…
MoreImagine yourself relaxing on a white sandy beach, kayaking along the tranquil turquoise waters of Turks and Caicos, and enjoying fresh gourmet meals surrounded by your family and friends —all for just $100!
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MoreWe’re already less than 50 days from the first day of the Fair. Can you believe it’s already July? Here at the Foundation, July is a busy and exciting month, with the Corndog Kickoff right in the middle and Fair preparations in full swing. July also brings another newsletter!…
MoreEach year I receive an ornament from my grandparents for Christmas. Over the years, this has become a collection as I continue to receive a new one each year. Similar…
MoreHappy Friday! With the Corndog Kickoff coming up soon, our office is filling up with wonderful auction donations! I thought I'd start the weekend off right with a sneak peak of some auction packages you'll see at the Kickoff in just a few weeks...
Got a…
MoreHere at the Blue Ribbon Foundation, we have already begun receiving some fantastic nominations for this year’s Iowan of the Day Award program. From what I’ve seen so far, I think the selection committee has…
MoreMany people have admitted that their favorite part of the Iowa State Fair is the variety of wonderful food on display in the Elwell Family Food Center. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to have many of those ribbon-winning foods…
MoreBesides enjoying days at the great Iowa State Fair, some of my favorite memories are going on fun family vacations. I mean, who doesn't enjoy the occasional getaway? If you are wondering what your next vacation…
MoreAs we all know, livestock shows are a huge part of the Iowa State Fair. They provide youth with the opportunity to compete and showcase their skills, as well as entertainment to Fairgoers. At my first Fair, I remember walking through the barns and being amazed at the skill and…
MoreGrowing up in a small town where everybody knows everybody has its perks, and one of those perks was that I got to know some pretty outstanding members of my community who truly made a lasting positive impact…
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