Media Credentials Request
Welcome, Media Friends! We are busy preparing for FAIR SWEET FAIR this year at the Iowa State Fair, August 7-17, 2025. Below are a couple of details about requesting media credentials. We appreciate your event coverage and look forward to working with you!
A limited number of complimentary tickets and parking passes are available for working media. Everyone must have an admission ticket to enter the Fairgrounds, and all members of the working media must sign out an Iowa State Fair media badge to work on the grounds.
How do I request media credentials?
The media credentials form closed July 25, 2025.
Do you have space available to work?
Our working media office is open in the Administration Building on the lower level daily during the Fair (Aug. 7-17) 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 tables are available. 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. Depending on the equipment you plan to bring onto the grounds, you may be subject to a search. Golf carts are NOT available for rent, but you are welcome to rent wagons with HomeTown Mobility or bring your small moving equipment, wagons, if needed.
What are the Fair hours?
The Fair is open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to midnight August 8-16, 2025, and closes early on Sunday, August 17 at 9 p.m. Most buildings are open from 9:00 a.m. to 8 p.m. The working media center is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. each Fair day. Here is a list of hours: https://www.iowastatefair.org/visit/fair-hours
What does a Pre-Fair pass mean?
A pre-fair pass is a pass to allow you on the grounds before the Fair starts on August 7th. The Iowa State Fairgrounds will be closed for setup starting on Saturday, July 26, 2025. If you need access to the grounds between July 26- August 6, 2025, please request pre-fair passes on the credentials request form. You will NOT need admission tickets until the Fair opens to the public on August 7, 2025. A pre-fair pass is not for entering the Fair before it opens on a regularly scheduled day, August 7-17, 2025.
If you will be on the grounds prior to 7:00 a.m. during the Fair, limited gates are 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.
What is the Soapbox?
The Des Moines Register is not hosting a Soapbox this year. For political visits, please get in touch with the party booth in the Varied Industries Building.
Grandstand coverage or photography?
Each artist and band management approve photography, articles, or interviews. If you are seeking permission, please include that information with your request for credentials. A list of requests will be submitted to our talent agency for review by August 1st and permission is granted by each band before their concert at the Fair.
The Fair has an official photographer, Matthew Putney, and you can request photos before a concert if needed through the marketing department. His photos will be posted here for use by the media: https://www.iowastatefair.org/media/image-library
Are Drones Allowed?
All drone footage requires pre-approval, scheduling, and supervision by an Iowa State Fair marketing staff member. Unsupervised drones are not allowed.