2026 Iowa State Fair Recap – August 13, 14, 15
The 2026 Iowa State Fair was record-breaking! Let’s take a look back at some of the highlights that made this year so special.
Through our partnership with Cookies Food Products, the Blue Ribbon Foundation continued the tradition of honoring outstanding Iowans through the Iowan of the Day program. We are proud to recognize these remarkable individuals and celebrate the difference they make in their communities.
John Emswiler – Algona
John has dedicated his life to serving others. A retired Army First Sergeant, Iraq War veteran, and retired law enforcement officer, John continued his commitment to service by becoming a founding member and president of the North Central Iowa chapter of Moving Veterans Forward. Under his leadership, the organization has helped countless veterans transition into stable housing while also operating a food pantry for those in need. John also volunteers as a bus driver for Bishop Garrigan Schools, Cops for Kids, and local summer reading programs. Whether he is serving veterans, students, or families, John is known for his compassion and unwavering dedication to helping others.
Alan Erickson – Nevada
Alan has spent decades serving his community through leadership, mentorship, and volunteerism. Following a 39-year career with Farm Credit Services of America, Alan has dedicated the past 13 years to mentoring more than 500 students through Nevada High School’s drama program. He has supported award-winning productions as well as fundraising efforts for the performing arts. Alan also volunteers with Food at First and leads Bible studies through his church. Guided by faith, integrity, and a passion for helping others, he has made a lasting impact on students, families, and the Nevada community.
Ari Lewerenz – Clinton
Ari is dedicated to strengthening her community through leadership, creativity, and service. As Board President of the Sawmill Museum, she led the effort to bring three Thomas Dambo troll sculptures to Clinton, coordinating hundreds of volunteers on a project expected to boost tourism for years to come. Through her role at Citizens First Bank, Ari promotes local events and supports nonprofits while also serving with Paint It Back and Grow Clinton. Her passion for collaboration and community has made a lasting impact on Clinton.
The Blue Ribbon Foundation wishes we could honor every volunteer who gives their time and talents to support our organization. This year, our volunteers once again demonstrated just how much dedication and enthusiasm it takes to make the Iowa State Fair special.
Here are a few fun volunteer facts from 2026:
• 646 total volunteers
• 91 years old – our oldest volunteer
• 12 years old – our youngest volunteer
• 5,284 hours and 30 minutes volunteered
• 1,370 total shifts
• Volunteers came from 12 states
• Volunteers came from 140 cities
• 108 volunteers came from Des Moines
• 75 volunteers came from Ankeny
• 30 volunteers came from Urbandale
• Our farthest-traveling volunteer drove 24 hours from California to join us!
We are incredibly grateful to every volunteer who helped make the 2026 Fair a success. Thank you for sharing your time, energy, and Fair spirit with us!
Each summer, a college intern joins our staff with the title of Donor Relations Intern. This year, Morgan McBee was an incredible addition to our team. Morgan stayed busy organizing hospitality events, promoting the Corndog Kickoff, and communicating with current and prospective donors. No matter what project we asked Morgan to tackle, she approached it with enthusiasm and a smile. Thank you, Morgan, for all your hard work and for being such a wonderful part of the team!
Butter Cow Mania! One of our hottest-selling merchandise items this year was the Butter Cow stuffed animal. During the 2026 Iowa State Fair, we sold 2,726 of these adorable little stuffies, generating an impressive $49,068 in sales! We think every Fair-lover, no matter their age, should have a Butter Cow at home. If you missed out at the Fair, you can still purchase one online!
The Blue Ribbon Foundation loves showing off the many renovation and improvement projects made possible by our generous donors. We are grateful for your continued support of the Iowa State Fair and these important projects. Thank you for supporting these 2026 projects:
• William C. Knapp Varied Industries Building enhancements
• A new entrance to Lot C
• Updated street signs throughout the Fairgrounds and Campgrounds
• Cookie Building HVAC improvements
• Sheep Barn show ring and portable pens
Every donation helps preserve and improve the Fairgrounds for generations of Fairgoers to come.
The first three days of the Iowa State Fair brought a little rain, but that didn’t stop Fairgoers from enjoying their favorite summer tradition. Rain or shine, Iowans showed up ready to make memories, enjoy their favorite foods and attractions, and celebrate everything that makes the Iowa State Fair so special.
Thank you to our volunteers, donors, partners, staff, and Fairgoers for making the 2026 Iowa State Fair one to remember!
