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Iowa State Fair tickets & upcoming events

Iowa State Fair is a standout location for events in Des Moines. We offer a complete guide to upcoming concerts, including Iowa State Fair tickets, seating charts, parking details, and an interactive event calendar for Des Moines, IA. If you’ve never been to the Iowa State Fair, you’re in for a real treat, it’s one of those legendary summer events that just sticks with you. Imagine walking into a sea of bright colors, smells of fried cheese curds, and the sounds of live music echoing through the air. Kids love the Little Hands on the Farm area, where they can actually get a taste of what it’s like to be a farmer, planting, feeding animals, and even milking cows. The agriculture exhibits are pretty impressive too, with modern farming tech that makes you go wow, like GPS-guided tractors and drone surveillance. And if you’re into fashion, the Iowa State Fair Fashion Show is a hidden gem, showing off clothing made from homegrown textiles, yes, real cotton and wool turned runway-worthy. Food trucks line up with everything from giant turkey legs to sweet corn on the cob, and the Food Truck Competition is fierce, with vendors battling it out for the best bites. Planning your visit? Try to get there early if you want a good spot, especially near the main stages or food areas. If you’re driving, Highway 235 is your best bet to cut down on travel time, and follow the signs from the air travel hub for an easier route. Whether you’re there for concerts, contests, or just to soak up the lively atmosphere, the Iowa State Fair promises a summer memory you won’t forget, just bring your appetite and a bit of patience for the crowds.

Parking & Directions for Iowa State Fair

Address :
3000 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA
50317, US

Parking:
1. Iowa State Fairgrounds Lot - 0.5 miles, $20
2. Downtown Parking Garages - 1 mile, $15
3. Fairview Park - 0.8 miles, $10
4. East Village Lot - 1.2 miles, $12
5. Street Parking - 0.3 miles, $5

Iowa State Fair concerts - 2026 event schedule highlights in Des Moines

The Iowa State Fair is one of the most anticipated annual events in Des Moines, IA, offering a diverse lineup of entertainment, rodeo action, and family-friendly activities from august 13 to August 23, 2026. Attendees can experience thrilling PRCA Pro Rodeo events on August 13 and 14 at 1:00 pm, showcasing some of the best rodeo athletes in the country. Evening concerts are a highlight of the fair, with performances including Rod Stewart & Richard Marx on August 14 at 8:00 pm, Hardy & McCoy Moore on August 13 at 8:00 pm, and Staind & Hoobastank on August 17 at 8:00 pm. Music lovers will also enjoy AJR & Em Beihold on August 19 at 8:00 pm, Lainey Wilson & Tigirlily Gold on August 16 at 8:00 pm, and Riley Green & Mackenzie Carpenter on August 20 at 8:00 pm, among others. The fair also features exciting events such as the Demolition Derby on August 22 at noon, Outlaw Truck And Tractor Pull on August 19 at noon, and live performances by TLC, Salt-N-Pepa & En Vogue on August 18 at 8:00 pm. For motorsport enthusiasts, the Domination Motorsports Figure 8 Races take place throughout the weekend on August 23, starting at noon. Additional entertainment includes performances by BigXThaPlug & XOLEX on August 22 at 8:00 pm and the legendary Alabama - The Band & Exile on August 21 at 8:00 pm. Whether you're a fan of rodeo, live music, or motorsports, the Iowa State Fair offers an unforgettable experience for everyone during this vibrant 11-day celebration.