Clearly the largest and most popular event in Des Moines each year is the Iowa State Fair. Actually, it is known far and wide as one of the biggest and best fairs in the entire country. The food is amazing and there’s plenty of great entertainment for people of all ages. It’s definitely a lot of fun, and if you live in Iowa, it’s practically a requirement to go at least one day every year while it’s happening.

Annually the fair attracts more than a million people from around the world. It features the states largest arts show, the largest food department of any state fair, and one of the world’s largest livestock shows. And let’s not forget about the beer! So it’s no surprise that the Iowa State Fair was named in the New York Times best selling travel book “1,000 Places to See Before You Die.”

It has also been recognized by Midwest Living magazine as one of the “Top 30 Things Every Midwesterner Should Experience” and was named the #2 choice for summer fun in America by USA Weekend.

The Iowa State Fair is held in August every year so be sure to come to Des Moines and join in the fun once again!