Iowa State Fair: Fun, Talent, and Politics | Des Moines News

Des Moines News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Aug 20, 2026 · 1m

The Iowa State Fair wrapped up with a bang—packed with food, rides, livestock, and new crowd favorites like logrolling and the Paul Bunyan Show. Amid the fun, voters turned out to voice their priorities ahead of midterms, while standout performances from Red Clay Strays and record-breaking feats by Big Bad Joe highlighted the talent on display. FFA students showcased local agriculture, and quirky contests—from harmonica battles to a hat parade—added charm. Reporters sampled lemonades and green tomato pie, proving this isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a vibrant snapshot of Iowa’s culture…