Quiet Moments, Big Memories:
Sensory-Friendly Morning Returns to the Iowa State Fair

Presented by ChildServe

The Iowa State Fair is proud to partner with presenting sponsor ChildServe, along with programming sponsors Drake University and IAble, to host Sensory-Friendly Morning on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 8 a.m. to noon.

Now in its fourth year, Sensory-Friendly Morning continues to grow, offering a welcoming and accessible Fair experience for individuals and families. Thoughtful adjustments will be made across the Fairgrounds to reduce sensory overload, including lower sound levels, limited flashing lights, clearly marked directional signage, designated educational areas and trained volunteers throughout the morning.

For the morning, two air-conditioned calming rooms will also be available for anyone needing a break. “Calm Your Body” Room – A quiet, relaxing space with fidgets, dimmable lighting, soothing music, coloring sheets and soft seating will be in the Robert G. Horner and Sheri Avis Horner Service Center. “Move Your Body” Room – An active area featuring stretching, jumping, therapy balls and a small obstacle course will be in the Richard O. Jacobson Exhibition Center classrooms. Both rooms will be staffed by ChildServe Occupational Therapists from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13.

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Nothing says summer in Iowa quite like fresh produce and homegrown products -and this year, the Iowa State Fair is bringing back the Farmers Markets to showcase the very best of what Iowa farmers and gardeners have to offer. Plus, new in 2025 is a Kid's Only Makers Market competition on the last day of the Fair.

Located near The Garden behind the Animal Learning Center and Little Hands on the Farm, the Iowa State Fair Farmers Markets will be open from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. August 7-16, 2025. Fairgoers can shop for locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh-cut flowers, jerky, handmade soaps and more; entries are now open to be a vendor.

On the last day of the Fair, Sunday, August 17, the Iowa State Fair will hold a Kids Makers Market, where kids ages 7 to 17 can enter to compete with their homemade products to win banners. Fairgoers can purchase products and watch the competition from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Farmers Market Dates:

August 7-16

4 p.m.-7 p.m.

The Garden (East of the Animal Learning Center)

Enter to be a vendor

Kids Makers Market Dates:

August 17

10 a.m.-1 p.m.

The Garden (East of the Animal Learning Center)

Enter to apply

Whether you're stocking up on garden-fresh goodies, looking for a unique gift or just want to take home a part of Iowa's agricultural community, the Iowa State Fair Farmers Markets are a must-stop on your Fair itinerary this year. Application deadline is July 1, 2025.