Your Guide to the 2024 Iowa State Fair (SCHEDULE)

As the countdown begins for the 2024 Iowa State Fair, excitement is reaching a fever pitch! Described as the largest event in Iowa and one of the oldest and most significant agricultural and industrial expositions in the nation, the Iowa State Fair promises a celebration like no other. From August 8th to August 18th, the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines will come alive with a vibrant tapestry of agriculture, entertainment, and achievement.

A Celebration of Iowa's Best, of the Best

With over a million attendees from around the globe each year, the Iowa State Fair is a true Midwest icon. It's not just a fair; it's an institution, immortalized in literature, film, and music. The Fair's rich history is a testament to Iowa's agricultural heritage and enduring spirit.

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One of the highlights of the Iowa State Fair is its stellar entertainment lineup. From country music to rock tributes, there's something for every musical taste. Plus, with free entertainment included with general admission, fairgoers can enjoy a variety of acts at the Susan Knapp Amphitheater, Anne and Bill Riley Stage, MidAmerican Energy Stage, and Fun Forest Stage.

But, before you head to the fairgrounds, here are some essential details to keep in mind:

Bag Policy: All bags, backpacks, coolers, and containers are subject to search upon entry to the Fairgrounds and the Grandstand. Refusal to comply may result in denied entry.

Weapons Policy: Firearms are prohibited on the Fairgrounds unless authorized by the Fair Board. Failure to comply may result in expulsion from the fairgrounds.

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Smoking Policy: Smoking is prohibited in certain areas of the Fairgrounds, including outdoor entertainment venues, restaurants, bars, and the Grandstand.

Pet Policy: Only service animals trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities are allowed on the Fairgrounds. Pets are welcome during non-Fair time and pet-specific events.

Food and Drink: Outside food and one sealed bottle of water are allowed on the grounds. Metal and glass containers are not permitted in certain areas.

Safety First: The Fair prioritizes safety and provides a family-friendly, safe, and healthy environment. It partners with law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety. All local and state laws, and ordinances apply. The Iowa State Fair reserves the right to refuse entry or remove any individual for non-compliance.

Credit: Iowa State Fair
Rules and Regulations for 2024.

The 2024 Iowa State Fair Full Schedule:

Iowa State Fair 2024 Free Entertainment Schedule:

Susan Knapp Amphitheater:
- August 8 – The Steel Woods (Country) at 8 p.m.
- August 9 – Restless Road (Country) at 8 p.m.
- August 10 – The War and Treaty (Country) at 8 p.m.
- August 11 – Kelsey Hart (Country) at 8 p.m.
- August 12 – 49 Winchester (Country) at 8 p.m.
- August 13 & 14 – Hairball (80s rock tribute) at 8 p.m.
- August 15 – Shaylen (Country) at 8 p.m.
- August 16 – Blake Guyre (Elton John and Billy Joel tribute) at 8 p.m.
- August 17 – Ella Langley (Country) at 8 p.m.
- August 18 – Matt Stell (Country) at 7 p.m.

Anne and Bill Riley Stage:
- August 8 & 9 – The Little Mermen (Disney movie hits) at 5 & 7 p.m.
- August 10 – Iowa State Fair Queen Coronation at 7 p.m.
- August 11 – Salsa del Soul Productions (Latino) at 7 & 9 p.m.
- August 12 – Country Gold- LeRoy Van Dyke and the Malpass Brothers (Country) at 5 & 7:30 p.m.
- August 13 – 17 – Ron Diamond (Hypnotist) at 7 & 9 p.m.
- August 18 – Cochren & Co. (Christian) at 7 p.m.

MidAmerican Energy Stage:
- August 8 – The Family Stone (Funk) at 8 p.m.
- August 9 – The Nadas (Folk) at 7 & 9 p.m.
- August 10 – Good To Be King (Tom Petty tribute) at 8 p.m.
- August 11 – Austin Snell (Country) at 8 p.m.
- August 12 – Transit Authority (Chicago tribute) at 8 p.m.
- August 13 – Fuel (Rock) at 8 p.m.
- August 14 – Tayler Holder (Country) at 8 p.m.
- August 15 – The Pork Tornadoes (Pop) at 8 p.m.
- August 16 – Not Quite Brothers (Rock) at 8 p.m.
- August 17 – Jason Brown (Country) at 8 p.m.
- August 18 – RVSHVD (Country) at 7 p.m.

Fun Forest Stage:
- August 8-18 – The Chipper Experience (Children’s magic show)
- August 8-18 – The Dollipops (Children’s music)

Iowa State Fair 2024 Grandstand Headliners:

Thursday, Aug. 8: Lauren Daigle
Friday, Aug. 9: Foreigner with Melissa Etheridge
Saturday, Aug. 10: Jelly Roll
Sunday, Aug. 11: Greta Van Fleet with The Beaches
Monday, Aug. 12: Brett Young with Needtobreathe
Tuesday, Aug. 13: Thomas Rhett
Wednesday, Aug. 14: Motley Crue
Thursday, Aug. 15: Gabriel Iglesias
Friday, Aug. 16: Avett Brothers with G. Love & Special Sauce
Saturday, Aug. 17: Ne-Yo
Sunday, Aug. 18: Kidz Bop

Food for thought, in the event of severe weather (which can always be an issue in Iowa) an announcement will be communicated over the grounds-wide paging system to alert fairgoers to seek cover in the nearest building, with the announcement repeated every two minutes. As always, if eminent weather is evident or issued by the National Weather Service, it may delay the start of entertainment or require temporary relocation by Grandstand event staff. In situations like this, remain calm, and listen for instructions from event staff.

Tom Ehlers

With so much to see and do, the 2024 Iowa State Fair promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend. So mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready for an adventure like no other at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines!