VIP Event Tickets on Sale Now
Summer is starting and now is the time to plan your one-of-a-kind, VIP, behind-the-scenes Fair Sweet Fair, experience. Unlock the ultimate Iowa State Fair experiences with exclusive, behind-the-scenes adventures you won't find anywhere else! Go beyond the typical Fair day-cuddle baby animals in a private setting, get hands-on with animals doing yoga or explore the Fairgrounds after dark with special behind the scenes events.
For those seeking a taste of mystery, join a guided ghost-hunting lesson in the historic Pioneer Hall. And if farm-fresh flavors are more your style, indulge in a chef-led farm-to-table dinner or sharpen your kitchen skills with an interactive cooking class featuring local Iowa ingredients. It's an immersive way to connect with the heart of Iowa -up close, after hours and unforgettable.
Spots are limited-grab your tickets now before they're gone!
SWEET FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
Barnyard Yoga
Barnyard Yoga is back at the 2025 Iowa State Fair with Dairy Goats, Llamas and Bunnies! This workout won't be the most physically intensive workout, but it is guaranteed to be loaded with giggles, cuddles and just the right amount of cuteness to put you in a good mood. Advance tickets are required for each class and each participant will receive an Iowa State Fair Barnyard Yoga mat. Classes will fill up quickly, so register today!
Dairy Goat Yoga: Wednesday, August 13 at 7:30 p.m., Swine Barn
Llama Yoga: Friday, August 15 at 6 p.m., Outdoor Arena
Bunny Yoga: Sunday, August 17 at 9 a.m., Grassy Area South of Poultry/Rabbit Building
Cost for each class: $25 per person
Cuddles and Snuggles Chore Time
It's an adventure fit for the whole family! Cuddles and Snuggles Chore Time is your chance to help with morning chores, grab some baby animal snuggles and check out the behind-the-scenes action in a smaller, quieter setting. This VIP experience is for families who have always wondered what it takes to care for all the mamas and babies in the Animal Learning Center during the Fair! Space is limited to families of 6 members or less.
Friday, August 8 from 8-9 a.m.
Monday, August 11 from 8-9 a.m.
Saturday, August 16 from 8-9 a.m.
Cost: $40 per family (max 6-person)
SWEET EXCLUSIVE KITCHEN CLASSES AND DINNERS
Lunch and Learn – Mommy & Me Cooking Class
Join us for Mommy & Me cooking class to create school lunches and snacks your kids will eat. Learn to make Pizza Puffs, Pasta Salad, Hummus and Veggies, Puppy Chow and School Rice – snack. This class will provide a fun way to spend quality time with your child while developing new culinary skills. This class is appropriate for children ages 4 and over.
Chef Andrea Love is a personal chef and owner of Dinner Delights. As a busy mom of 3 boys, there are many nights when whipping up a home-cooked meal is impossible – there's just always something that needs to be done! Dinner Delights started in 2017 to help others simplify mealtime – spending less time cooking and more time enjoying life.
Friday, August 8 from 7-8 p.m., The Kitchen
Cost: $30 per family (2-person max)
Salsa Secrets – Sweet or Savory with Chef Andrea Love of Dinner Delights
Explore more ways to make salsa, including fresh salsa using the veggies grown in The Garden on the Fairgrounds - what could sound more delicious? Learn how to make four different types of salsas (Pico Do Gallo, Green Chile Salsa, Roasted Salsa Verde and Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Sugar chips). Freshen up your favorite salsa recipe, taste your creation and take home any leftovers.
Chef Andrea Love is a personal chef and owner of Dinner Delights. As a busy mom of 3 boys, there are many nights when whipping up a home-cooked meal is impossible – there's just always something that needs to be done! Dinner Delights started in 2017 to help others simplify mealtime – spending less time cooking and more time enjoying life.
Tuesday, August 12 from 7-8:30 p.m., The Kitchen
Cost: $30 per person
Farm-to-Table Dinners with Chef Grant Gillon
Slow down the Fair and start the evening by mingling with fellow Fairgoers and meeting the local farmers and producers who grow the fresh ingredients for your meal. Then, indulge in a beautifully crafted four-course dinner featuring the finest in-season, locally sourced ingredients from within 30 miles of the Iowa State Fair and prepared to perfection by chef Grant Gillon. Ice water will be available throughout the evening, and feel free to bring along your favorite Fair beverage to enjoy. Only two special dinners will be offered, and seating is limited.
Chef Grant Gillon rose to fame as a winner of Gordan Ramsay's MasterChef, where he showcased his skill, creativity and passion for cooking. Since his MasterChef victory, Grant has continued to wow diners with his ability to combine bold flavors and fresh local ingredients. His dedication to excellence and flair for creating memorable dishes makes him a standout in Iowa's culinary scene.
Monday, August 11 from 7-9 p.m., The Kitchen
Thursday, August 14 from 7-9 p.m., The Kitchen
Cost: $100 per person
SWEET AFTER DARK EXPERIENCES
Fair After Dark – Adults Only Night at Little Hands on the Farm
It's time to reclaim your inner child and enjoy a night of fun at Little Hands on the Farm! From food and drinks to trivia, this adults-only event offers a unique twist on the classic experience. It's a VIP night you won't want to miss! Limited tickets are available for this behind-the-scenes adventure, and attendees must be 21 or older. Throughout the night, you'll have the chance to win prizes, and each ticket includes three tickets to enhance your experience.
Friday, August 8 from 8:30-10:30 p.m., The Garden
Cost: $25 per person
Fair After Dark – Ghost Hunting 101: How to be a Paranormal Investigator
Adrian Lee, founder of The International Paranormal Society and a member of the Luton Paranormal Society in England, has explored ghostly phenomena across the globe. Who knew the Fairgrounds are known to be hot spots for paranormal activity? Join Adrian for a night filled with chilling ghost stories and his Top 10 most unforgettable encounters. This behind-the-scenes, VIP event is one you won't want to miss! Tickets are limited, and attendees must be 21 or older. Throughout the evening, prizes will be awarded, and each ticket includes three drink tickets to enjoy.
Saturday, August 16 from 8:30-10:30 p.m., Pioneer Hall
Cost: $30 per person
A limited number of tickets are on sale for these exclusive events at www.iowastatefair.org. Fair admission is not included.