March 28, 2024

The best time of the year

By Mariannette Miller-Meeks

Since its inception in 1854 in Fairfield, the Iowa State Fair has been a yearly tradition for Iowans, attracting people from across the country and around the world. With a wide variety of entertainment, food, and attractions, such as the world-famous butter cow, it is not surprising that millions travel to Des Moines each year to visit the State Fair.

The Iowa State Fair also serves as one of the largest agricultural and business expositions in the country, offering our local farmers and small businesses a chance to showcase their livestock and goods. Small businesses and farmers are the backbone of our economy, and the Iowa State Fair honors this by highlighting their work.

One of my favorite parts of the State Fair is time spent with my family as we meet and talk to Iowans from across the state. Learning more about the successes and struggles over the past year allows me to better represent Iowa’s second district in Washington.

I also enjoy the livestock competitions, supporting the numerous small businesses from across the state, and watching the many talent shows that showcase Iowa’s very best. I am amazed each year by the talent our state produces.

I am looking forward to seeing the Iowa State Fair return to normalcy following the end of the pandemic. It will be wonderful to see Iowans travel from across the state to support their community, and I look forward to welcoming our guests from across the nation.

I want to encourage all Iowans to make the trip to Des Moines anytime from August 11th through the 21st. With eleven days filled with entertainment, I’m confident this year’s State Fair will again exemplify why Iowa is the best place in the United States to live, work, and raise a family.

Mariannette Miller-Meeks is a resident of Ottumwa who currently represents Iowa’s Second District in the United States House of Representatives.