Food - Beginner's Contest

First Time Food Contest Competitors Battle for Fair Honors

First time fair Food Department entrants put their culinary prowess to the test in the Beginner’s Contest competition judged Sunday, August 13, at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.

Ellen Even of Ankeny won first place and a $30 cash award.

Mary Ann Nielsen of Des Moines claimed second place and Jill Gregoire of Cumming earned third place.

Judges awarded Honorable Mention to Rosalie Owens of Mingo.

Entries were judged on taste and presentation.

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There were 138 divisions, 695 classes and over 6,800 entries at this year’s Fair. Food Department judging was held in the Elwell Family Food Center.