Fair After Dark returns to the Iowa State Fair with two special events for Fairgoers in 2019. For the second year, the behind-the-scenes event series will allow Fairgoers 21 and over to experience exclusive Fair sights, sounds and tastes. The 2019 series features two Fair After Dark events: Hungry Games in the Elwell Family Food Center and Crafts and Crafts in the Patty and Jim Cownie Cultural Center.


Hungry Games: Saturday, August 10
9:30-11:30 p.m. - Tickets: $30
Elwell Family Food Center

It’s a foodapalooza of friendly competition in the Elwell Family Food Center with grown up cupcake wars, an ugliest cake competition, “Chopped” gone Fair style and samples galore of Iowa beef, pork, dairy, egg, turkey and corn. This isn’t your Dad’s turn at the grill or your Mom’s glass of wine; find out how to create boozy marinades with Templeton Rye and pair wine and spirits with the best of dishes. Come hungry boys and girls; this is where food gets seriously fun!

Crafts and Crafts: Thursday, August 15
9:30-11:30 p.m. - Tickets: $30
Patty and Jim Cownie Cultural Center

Crafts and Crafts will bring out your inner artist with all three levels of the popular Patty and Jim Cownie Cultural Center having hands-on activities like wood art, bracelet making, photography, crafts and art that is literally on fire! Iowa’s craft beer industry is booming, so enjoy your favorite or try a new craft beer or cider from Iowa Craft Beer while you get creative!
Tickets are on sale at www.iowastatefair.org., limited number available.

Tickets Include:

  • VIP Access
  • Food and Drink Samples (Hungry Games)
  • Contests (Hungry Games)
  • Multiple Take Home Crafts (Crafts and Crafts)
  • (2) Drink Tickets

Attendees must be 21 and over, no children allowed. IDs will be checked at the door. No refunds, no exchanges. Fair Admission is not included, but advanced admission tickets are on sale at www.iowastatefair.org .