By Sydney Zehnder

From its humble beginnings in Fairfield 165 years ago, the Iowa State Fair has evolved into Iowa’s largest event, and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country.

Gary Slater, CEO of the Iowa State Fair, discussed the changes the fair has seen in the last 25 years to make the tagline, “Nothing Compares to the Iowa State Fair,” hold true.

When asked what changes the fair is seeing in 2019, Slater said each year the fair takes on its own identity. This year’s theme, “Iowa State Fair Favorites,” emphasizes both what keeps fairgoers coming back each year, and what new and exciting things make their debut at the fair every year. New entertainment and the completion of a three-phase construction project are two of the major changes.

Plenty to see

Slater said some entertainment, especially during the day, will be free. The nighttime entertainment will include “shows that are sure to impress.” Also, expect to see Sea Lion Splash, Kachunga and the Alligator shows, and  the Mutton Bustin’ contest.

A rodeo-style sheep-riding contest for children, Mutton Bustin’ has been held for several years. But this is the first year it will be held daily (four times a day on weekdays, five times a day on weekends), with a championship round on the last Sunday.

The rebuilding of Gate 13, one of the main fair entrances, is the third phase of a three-phase project. The Midway and Gate 15 renovation two years ago and the Grandstand expansion last year preceded this project. Moving Gate 13 north and west of its past site will make room for a future outdoor entertainment area.

Looking broader at the changes of the last couple of decades, Slater discussed the beginnings of the Blue Ribbon Foundation in 1993 and how it came to be. Right before the inception of the foundation, it was evident the fair needed major repairs. The first three projects were the Cattle Barn, Swine Barn and Grandstand in the 1990s. Once those were completed, the Varied Industries Building was renovated in 2000. Slater said, “The Varied Industries renovation has been a huge success. That building is a workhorse for us — every day all year long, not just during the fair.”

Timeless elements

While the fair has seen cosmetic upgrades and changes to the grounds, Slater said the feel of the fair hasn’t changed much — it’s still a fun and safe event for the whole family.

Though the fair has adapted to the digital age of communication through a website, app and social media, visitors can still enjoy timeless contests like mom-calling, the rubber chicken toss and other events unique to the Iowa State Fair.

Slater said the fair is working to stay relevant for fairgoers of all ages. Grandstand entertainment has been a major factor in achieving this goal. He noted Des Moines is expected to grow and, hopefully, a percentage of them will visit the fair.

Zehnder is the marketing content intern for the Iowa State Fair.