The 2019 Iowa State Fair Parade is the official kick-off to the Iowa State Fair. Roger Miller, of Pleasant Hill, Iowa, will serve as the 2019 Parade Marshal and will lead the parade through the streets of downtown Des Moines.
Roger taught science at Hoyt and Goodrell Middle Schools in Des Moines, as well as Roosevelt High School, but he has worked at the Fair during the summers for the past 49 years. 2019 marks his 50th Fair. The crew he manages, nicknamed “Roger’s crew” has helped with just about anything on the Fairgrounds including moving supplies, carrying tables and chairs, or setting up entries. Roger, with a can-do attitude and a smile for all, has always worked right alongside the teenage crew to make work enjoyable including implementing internal competitions like chair carrying. He said, “Kids will work and work hard if you show them – you need to get in there and do the work with them.”
Over the years, Roger estimates he has had 400-500 teenagers on his crew, many of whom he taught in the classroom. Today, multiple generations have worked for Roger, a true testament to his strong work ethic, the respect he has earned, and his love for the Fair. Roger’s favorite event is a County Fair Day luncheon with 150 tables and 1200 chairs.
Roger’s three sons all worked for him on his crew when they were growing up. Roger and his wife Sandy now take time to enjoy their seven grandchildren, ages seven to twenty-six.
The parade will travel from the Capitol down Grand Avenue and march west to 15th Street.
IPTV will live broadcast the Iowa State Fair Parade tonight starting at 6:15 p.m. statewide as well as on Facebook.
Visit iowastatefair.org for the full daily schedule, text FAIR to 75782 or download the official Iowa State Fair App for the latest updates.