Iowa State Fair | Enter FFA & 4-H


FFA & 4-H

Learn how to enter into each organization's livestock or static competitions at the Iowa State Fair.

Select Your Entry Category Below

Competitive events at the Fair are grouped into categories. You can find rules and information for the each of the categories, available through the drop down menu, below.

Questions? Email competitiveevents@iowastatefair.org or call 515-262-3111 ext. 207.

FFA

Iowa FFA members who are interested in entering FFA shows at the Iowa State Fair need to contact their Chapter Advisor.

Complete information will be posted April 1, 2026. A copy of previous year’s rules and information, for reference only, is available by request. Email competitiveevents@iowastatefair.org or call 515-262-3111 ext. 207.

Nomination deadline is May 15. Entry deadline is July 1.

(Performance Beef weigh-in sheet, DNA sample and payment are due February 1.)

Required Reading

  • Code of Ethics (required for entry)
  • FFA General Rules
  • Health Requirements
  • Livestock General Rules & Regulations

Nomination Information

Sections

  • FFA Ag Mech
  • FFA Beef Cattle
  • FFA Dairy Cattle
  • FFA Dairy Goats
  • FFA Farm Crops
  • FFA Floriculture
  • FFA Herding
  • FFA Horse
  • FFA Horticulture
  • FFA Meat Goat
  • FFA Photography
  • FFA Poultry
  • FFA Rabbit
  • FFA Sheep
  • FFA Showing
  • FFA Swine

Exhibitor Information

  • FFA Schedule
  • FFA Ag Mechanics Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Beef Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Dairy Cattle Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Dairy Goat Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Farm Crops, Floriculture and Horticulture Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Horse Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Meat Goat Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Photography Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Poultry Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Rabbit Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Sheep Exhibitor Letter
  • FFA Swine Exhibitor Letter
  • IFAA Awards
  • Animal Care Statement (market meat goat, market sheep, swine)
  • Beef Affidavit
  • Exhibitor Camping Rules
  • Exhibitor Off Grounds Camping Form
  • Exhibitor Ticket Order Form
  • Trailer Parking Map
  • Youth Inn Information
  • Youth Inn Family Room Request Form
  • Youth Inn Registration Form
  • Lost Tag - Request Replacement
  • Replacement Tag Form

Livestock Care

As an agricultural institution, we are proud to share our rich heritage through livestock education, entertainment and competition. The Iowa State Fair does not condone animal mistreatment of any kind. We have strict animal care policies in place, codes of ethics for 4-H and FFA members to abide by and an Animal Care Committee. We strive to make the Iowa State Fair a safe and enjoyable place for people and animals alike.

Purpose of the Animal Care Committee: The Animal Care Committee was established by the Iowa State Fair Board to ensure that all animals at the Fair receive the best care that is possible and practical. The Iowa State Fair is a showplace for animal agriculture in the state. Many animal species, in addition to livestock, are on exhibition at the Fair. Many attendees are not familiar with common standards of care for livestock, pets and other animals. The animal displays and exhibits are intended to provide enjoyment and education for exhibitors and the general public. The Committee endeavors to enhance the image of animal ownership, the Fair and to provide a positive experience for all involved.

Code of Ethics/Premium Book Rules

Additional Resources:

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalwelfare/usda-animal-care-overview

https://animalscience.unl.edu/animal-care-resources