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.
The Iowa State Fair is known for contests! Some traditional like backgammon, Queen, and cornhole. Some a little more zany – decorated diaper, arm wrestling, best legs, or mullets. Did you know the Blue Ribbon Foundation is hosting a contest before the Iowa State Fair even starts? It’s happening…
MoreSpring Newsletters: 2025, 2015, 2005, 1995
Each Spring the Blue Ribbon Foundation updates donors on what has been happening and what is continuing to happen to make the Fair the best 11 days possible!
We also like to provide opportunities for you to get…
MoreDon't miss your opportunity to be a part of our 2025 T.A.G. team! There are only 16 spots left to join this amazing team, so don't hesitate and claim your spot today.
The T.A.G. team was formed by the Blue Ribbon Foundation to unite fairgoers with a shared passion of…
MoreGood morning and Happy April Fools! With it being April 1 - the Fair is right around the corner and our annual T-Shirt Design Contest is quickly approaching. We are looking for unique, original designs that capture the heart and spirit of the Iowa State Fair! The winning design will be featured…
MoreHi Fairgoers,
My name is Maya Bruening, and I will be spending my summer with the Blue-Ribbon Foundation as their Sponsor Relations Intern. I am currently a Sophomore at Iowa State studying agriculture communications. I grew up in…
MoreThe Blue Ribbon Foundation formed the T.A.G. Team to unite Fair enthusiasts with a shared vision of making the
Iowa State Fairgrounds an even better place. It was a simple concept; Together we can Accomplish our Goals.
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MoreJoin the Blue Ribbon Foundation in preserving the cherished tradition of the Iowa State Fair. Your generous contributions directly help enhance the Fairgrounds’ beauty and support vital building renovations.
… MoreNothing compares to Iowa State Fair entertainment – especially the music. Right now, there is a lot of music buzz around the Fairgrounds. The Iowa State Fair has announced 8 of the 11 Grandstand concerts for the 2025 Iowa State Fair, August 7-17.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation is proud…
MoreHorse Barn History
Some horse watchers know as much as the riders. Others rarely see a horse, so ask lots of questions. And it they’re lucky, they get to give one a pat before they move on to the rest of the Fair!
The book,…
MoreThe Iowa State Fair is a combination of thousands of ingredients mixed together to make a wonderful recipe we all enjoy! The same can be said for the Blue Ribbon Foundation’s Corndog Kickoff scheduled for Saturday, July 12…
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