Media Credentials Request
Welcome Media Friends! We can't wait to share the BEST DAYS EVER with you at the Iowa State Fair, August 10-20, 2023.
A limited number of tickets and parking passes are available for working media. Everyone will be required to have an admission ticket to enter the Fairgrounds as well as an Iowa State Fair issued media badge.
How do I request media credentials?
Media credentials request form opens on May 15th and must be completed by July 21, 2023. Fill in each day and how many passes and people will be attending and make sure that your mailing address is correct for UPS or FedEx reasons. You will receive parking and admission passes in the mail, but you must obtain your working media badge in the media center on the Fairgrounds.
You will receive a confirmation email if your request for credentials is approved. Media credentials information, admission, and parking passes will be shipped in late July, please double and triple check your mailing address allowing time for delivery by August 1, 2023.
Do you have space available to work?
A working media office is open in the Administration Building, lower level every day during the Fair from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Other hours and days are available with prior arrangements. A limited number of cubicles and a limited number of tables are available. In this area is where all upcoming press conferences or special announcements will be shared.
Getting around?
A Fairgrounds map can be found here. Each person, each day will be required to show a wristband or a ticket to enter the grounds. You may be subject to search depending on the equipment you plan to care onto the grounds. Golf carts are not available for rent, but you are welcome to rent wagons with HomeTown Mobility or bring your own small moving equipment if needed.
What are the Fair hours?
The Fair is open to the public 8:00 a.m. to midnight August 10-20, 2023. Most Building are open 9:00 a.m. to 8 p.m. The working media center is open 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. each Fair day.
The Iowa State Fairgrounds will be closed for set up starting on Saturday, August 6, 2023. If you need access to the grounds between August 6-9, 2023, please request pre-fair passes on the credentials request form. Pre-fair passes are only valid until August 9, 2023 and allow you to park on the grounds and drive on the grounds. You will NOT need admission tickets until the Fair opens to the public on August 10, 2023.
If you will be on grounds prior to 7:00 a.m. during the Fair, limited gates area available for entry. Arrangements will need to be made with the marketing department for early entry.
Sign up for our e-newsletter, text alerts (text FAIR to 844-844-8508) and follow us on social media for up-to-date information.
Questions? Email marketing@iowastatefair.org.