Frequently Asked Questions
Every year the Iowa State Fair staff fields questions from visitors. Some of the most frequently asked questions are below. The answers are a constant reminder that nothing compares to the Iowa State Fair.
When is the 2013 Fair?
August 8-18, 2013.
How do I sign up to compete in the 2013 Iowa State Fair?
Information on competitive events are posted on the Categories / Premium Books page. For information on contests visit the Contests page.
How do I get a 2013 Premium Book?
Premium books are available on the Categories / Premium Books page.
Where is the Fair located?
The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue in Des Moines. Driving directions can be found on the Maps and Directions page.
Where can I find a map of the Fairgrounds?
What time do the Fairgrounds open and close?
The Fair is open from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily. Most Fair buildings are open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. No entry or re-entry after 9 p.m. on Sunday, August 18.
Where is handicap accessible parking available during the Fair?
The largest area of parking reserved for visitors with disabilities is located in the North Lot. Admission to this lot is through Gate #2 at East 33rd Street and East University Avenue. Vehicle parking is on a space-available basis; some hard-packed surface parking is available. For more information visit the Disability Assistance page.
When do advance admission tickets go on sale? Where can I purchase them?
For more information, visit the Admissions and Hours page.
When do Grandstand tickets go on sale? Where can I purchase them?
For more info and the full line-up, visit the Grandstand page.
Do Grandstand tickets include Fair admission?
Grandstand tickets do not include admission to the Fair. Fair admission must be purchased separately. For more information, visit the Admissions and Hours page.
Are pets allowed on Fair grounds?
No, pets are not allowed on the Fairgrounds during the Fair. Pets are allowed on the Fairgrounds only during non-Fairtime.
What can I bring through the gate – like outside food, coolers, or water bottles?
Outside food and beverage is not allowed on the grounds during the Fair. Coolers are generally not allowed, but exceptions are made for patrons with medical conditions that need to keep medications cooled.
Does the Fair have private areas for nursing mothers?
There are two Baby Diaper Changing/Nursing Stations on the Fairgrounds, located in the Animal Learning Center and the Walnut Center. Both locations provide parents and their children with a safe, comfortable and private atmosphere. Rocking chairs and an area for diaper changing with limited stock of diapers, wipes and instant formula are also provided. Diaper changing and family restrooms are also available at the Heritage Village restroom facility adjacent to the Susan Knapp Amphitheater and the restrooms behind Ye Old Mill.
Where are ATMs located?
Approximately 30 ATMs will be scattered throughout the grounds, including just outside the Robert G. Horner & Sheri Avis Horner Service Center, on the northeast side of the Varied Industries Building and just inside the Grandstand entrance.
Where are lost items claimed?
Lost and found is located at the Public Safety Building, located at the west end of the Grand Concourse. Public Safety can be reached by phone at 515/262-3111 x312.
Does the Fair have motorized scooters?
Yes, there are a limited number available. Reservations will be accepted for full-day rentals of wheelchairs and electric scooters. A certain number of units will be available for walk-up rentals as well. They are adjacent to Gate #11 at the west end of the Grand Concourse and east of Gate #15. For more information visit the Disability Assistance page.
Where can I rent strollers or wagons at the Fair?
Strollers and wagons are available on a first come, first serve basis inside the Grand Avenue Gate #11 and Gate #15. Stroller rental is $8 per day, wagon rental is $15 per day (deposit of driver’s license is required for rentals).
Where do I find a daily program of Fair events?
The Fair’s Daily Program will be inserted into The Des Moines Register on Sunday, August 4, and will also be available online beginning in early July on the Daily Program page. Programs are also distributed at all gates during the Fair.
Where are the DART State Fair Park and Ride locations and when are they running?
Route information can be found on the State Fair Park & Ride page.
Where can I find results and when are they posted?
Results are generally posted within 2-3 days of the event on the Fair Results page. For complete 4-H results, please contact your local extension office.
Are there camping sites available during Fairtime?
Demand for a spot in our lush, 160-acre Campgrounds is always high! For more information visit the Fairtime Camping page.
Where can I find information about hotels near the Fairgrounds?
The Greater Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau provides up-to-date lodging information. You may contact them by calling 800/451-2625 or search their online accommodations listings at seedesmoines.com.
Are concealed weapons allowed on the Fairgrounds?
Guns are prohibited on the Iowa State Fairgrounds; with or without a valid Iowa permit to carry unless authorized by the Fair Board as per Iowa Code. Failure to comply with this rule shall be cause for expulsion from the fairgrounds and/or being charged under Iowa Code.
Is smoking allowed on the Fairgrounds?
In accordance with the Smokefree Air Act, portions of the Fairgrounds are smoke-free. While smoking is allowed in the walkway areas of the Fairgrounds, the law applies to sections designated by no-smoking signs. Smoke-free areas of the Fairgrounds include:
- Outdoor entertainment venues – stage areas, building porches and grounds attraction areas.
- Restaurants and bars – both enclosed and open serving areas, eateries and concession stands.
- Grandstand area or inside buildings - this remains the same as past years.
For more information or to report a complaint, visit the Smokefree Air Act website, www.IowaSmokefreeAir.gov; call the Smokefree Air Act Helpline 1-888-944-2247; or mail a written complaint to the Iowa Department of Public Health, 321 E. 12th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-0075.
