4-H

Learn how to enter into 4-H livestock or static competitions at the Iowa State Fair.

Iowa 4-H members who are interested in entering 4-H shows at the Iowa State Fair need to enter through FairEntry/4HOnline.

For more information on 4-H Shows at the Iowa State Fair, please visit the Iowa State University Extension - State Fair Livestock page.

4-H General Rules and Regulations

The rules specific for each department are found in each respective department premium book. It is the responsibility of each exhibitor to be familiar with all applicable rules and regulations. 

4-H goat show exhibitors

4-H Livestock Rules and Regulations

The rules specific for each department are found in each respective department premium book. It is the responsibility of each exhibitor to be familiar with all applicable rules and regulations. 

General Livestock Rules and Regulations

The rules specific for each livestock department are found in each respective department premium book. It is the responsibility of each exhibitor to be familiar with all applicable rules and regulations. 

Health Requirements

It is the responsibility of each exhibitor to be familiar with all applicable health requirements for the exhibition of livestock. 

Premium Books

The premium book of each department explains the available classes, entry requirements and awards.

Exhibitor Information

  • 4-H Fair Entry Help Sheet (exhibitor/family instructions on how to submit entries)
  • Discount Ticket Order Form (purchase admission tickets and/or vehicle parking permits)
  • ID Tag Flowchart (help sheet for tagging Iowa State Fair 4-H and FFA livestock for proper identification)

Livestock Exhibitor Maps

  • Trailer Parking Lots
  • Vehicle Parking Lots

Livestock Exhibitor Camping

Limited space is available for livestock exhibitors to camp in the Livestock Exhibitor Camping lots (on-grounds and off-grounds). Registration and payment for these lots will be required in advance.

  • Rules
  • Off-Grounds Registration Form

Youth Inn

Members from any recognized youth organization who are participating in the Iowa State Fair are eligible to stay in the Youth Inn Dormitory. All youth must be accompanied by a responsible adult to be eligible to stay in the dormitory. Pre-registration is recommended but not required.

IFAA Awards

The Iowa Foundation for Agricultural Advancement provides special awards for the 4-H and FFA Livestock Shows.

  •  IFAA Awards List

During the prestigious Iowa State Fair Sale of Champions, 16 4-H and FFA exhibitors sell their champion livestock to hometown and national supporters.

Sale of Champions

Livestock Care

As an agricultural institution, we are proud to share our rich heritage through livestock education, entertainment and competition. The Iowa State Fair does not condone animal mistreatment of any kind. We have strict animal care policies in place, codes of ethics for 4-H and FFA members to abide by and an Animal Care Committee. We strive to make the Iowa State Fair a safe and enjoyable place for people and animals alike.

Purpose of the Animal Care Committee: The Animal Care Committee was established by the Iowa State Fair Board to ensure that all animals at the Fair receive the best care that is possible and practical. The Iowa State Fair is a showplace for animal agriculture in the state. Many animal species, in addition to livestock, are on exhibition at the Fair. Many attendees are not familiar with common standards of care for livestock, pets and other animals. The animal displays and exhibits are intended to provide enjoyment and education for exhibitors and the general public. The Committee endeavors to enhance the image of animal ownership, the Fair and to provide a positive experience for all involved.

Code of Ethics/Premium Book Rules

Additional Resources: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aph... https://animalscience.unl.edu/...