Clips

Agriculture Building

    ClipSeason55Episode5503
    Visit with Sarah Pratt to learn more about the 2024 butter cow.
    ClipSeason54Episode5404
    Meet the 2023 Iowa State Fair Queen.
    ClipSeason54Episode5403
    Fairgoers showcase their artistry in the Bonsai Show at the Agriculture Building.
    ClipSeasonEpisode
    Everyone who visits the fair can learn something new about where their food comes from and all the work that goes into producing it.
    ClipSeasonEpisode
    Inside the Agriculture Building, the best of the state's agriculture is displayed alongside the famous Butter Cow.
    ClipSeason51Episode5105

    They've grown the pumpkins, now it's time to see who has the biggest and the best.

    ClipSeason51Episode5105

    This year celebrates the Butter Cow's 100th anniversary at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason51Episode5104

    Growing vegetables has taken on a new challenge. With this contest, it’s not just about quality - it helps if the veggies are funny looking too!

    ClipSeason51Episode5104

    If you're looking for a place to relax after a long day at the fair, then you need to visit the Discovery Garden, a beautiful spot to rest.

    ClipSeason51Episode5101

    Bill Riley interviews Duffy Lyon in her 24th season.

    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    What weird shapes are in store for the 2019 Iowa State Fair Most Unusual Vegetable Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5002

    Paul Yeager visits the Butter Cow to see what is in store for the 2019 Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason50Episode5001

    We meet the Iowa Honey Producers at the 2019 Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason49Episode4901

    Paul Yeager stops by the Food Center to meet this year's entrants in the canned vegetables contest.

    ClipSeason48Episode4804

    Combining style and botanical skill, the flower and potted plant show is always a sunny part of the Fair!

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    We all acknowledge that Mike Pearson knows a lot about agriculture - so let’s see how he does in a contest about one of agriculture’s arch enemies - weeds.

    ClipSeason47Episode4704

    Enjoy these homegrown heirloom tomatoes and find out which is the best at this year's Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason43Episode4301

    Join Charity Nebbe, host of Iowa PBS's new cooking series Iowa Ingredient, as she explores some tasty and unique flavors of the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason43Episode4301

    Discover just what it takes to grow an abnormally large pumpkin.

Contests

    ClipSeason55Episode5506
    The board becomes a battlefield in the chess tournament.
    ClipSeason55Episode5506
    A good, old-fashioned yelling contest in Pioneer Hall.
    ClipSeason55Episode5504
    Horseshoe pitching on Pioneer Hill.
    ClipSeason55Episode5503
    Visit the Jacobson Exhibition center for a fast moving and exciting sport that’s straight out of the old Western movies.
    ClipSeason55Episode5502
    Some bakers have been trying for years, even decades to win the Great Cinnamon Roll Challenge. Blair Ryan reports.
    ClipSeason55Episode5501
    Siblings who share a birthday compete in most alike and least alike contests.
    ClipSeason54Episode5404
    Meet Elivia Papcun, 2022 Cowgirl Queen, who shows what it takes to win the coveted title.
    ClipSeason54Episode5404
    Some of the finest pigs in the state are shown during the 4H Market Swine Show at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason54Episode5404
    Meet the 2023 Iowa State Fair Queen.
    ClipSeason54Episode5403
    Fairgoers showcase their artistry in the Bonsai Show at the Agriculture Building.
    ClipSeason54Episode5403
    Kids from across the state compete during the Chef Baking Championship at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason54Episode5403
    The classic competition of strength. It's the Monster Arm Wrestling Event at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason54Episode5402
    The annual contest to see which animals tip the scales at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason54Episode5402
    These students showcase their mechanical and technical skills for the farm in Tech Show at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason54Episode5402
    Enjoy the soft, soothing sounds of the Youth Rooster & Ladies Chicken Callin' Contest up at Pioneer Hall.
    ClipSeason54Episode5401
    4-H students from across Iowa compete with their horses during the 2023 Iowa State Fair 4-H Horse Show.
    ClipSeason54Episode5401
    Some of the best sheep shearers in the country make their way to the Sheep Barn to compete in the 2023 Sheep Shearing Contest at the Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeasonEpisode
    The dirt track racers of the early 1900s were big superstars, like today's football players or rock stars.
    ClipSeason53Episode5306
    Kids put the pedal to the pavement during the annual Iowa State Fair Big Wheel Races.
    ClipSeason53Episode5306
    Themed diapers, creative diapers, Fair-related diapers?! Babies from Iowa compete in the Decorated Diaper and Diaper Derby Contests.
    ClipSeason53Episode5305
    The roar of big trucks and tractors are back for the 2022 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason53Episode5304
    Bill Riley introduces us to the 2022 Iowa State Fair Queen.
    ClipSeason53Episode5304
    The Governor's Charity Steer Show is an annual fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, taking place each year at the Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason53Episode5303
    The Iowa State Fair Cowgirl Queen Contest is a long-standing tradition going back to the 1960s and is a favorite each year.
    ClipSeason53Episode5301
    4-H students interested in fashion, design, and apparel production showcase their skills.
    ClipSeason53Episode5301
    Welcome to the game of trivia, where you've got to be fast, you've got to be knowledgeable and it really helps if you bring your family!
    ClipSeason50Episode5006

    Meet some future comedians at the 2019 Kids Joke Telling Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5006

    These works of art almost look too good to eat. It's the 2019 Decorated Cakes Competition.

    ClipSeason50Episode5005

    Who can blow the biggest bubble at the 2019 Iowa State Fair Bubblegum Blowing Contest?

    ClipSeason50Episode5005

    We visit Pioneer Hall to listen in on some of the competitors at the 2019 Accordion Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5005

    Meet some of the competitors at the Shining Star Competition.

    ClipSeason50Episode5005

    Learn about some of the races that used to take place at the Iowa State Fair Grandstand.

    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    Paul Yeager makes his way to the Poultry and Rabbit Barn to check out some of the pigeons at the 2019 Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    We visit the 2019 Youth Livestock Judging Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    What weird shapes are in store for the 2019 Iowa State Fair Most Unusual Vegetable Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5003

    Take a look at the highlights from the 2019 Iowa State Fair Queen Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5003

    We head up to Pioneer Hill to meet some of people pitching horseshoes at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason50Episode5003

    We head up to Pioneer Hill to meet some of people pitching horseshoes at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason50Episode5003

    Take a look at the highlights from the 2019 Iowa State Fair Queen Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5001

    We meet some of the competitors from the 2019 Iowa State Fair 4H Horse Show.

    ClipSeason50Episode5001

    Travis Graven visits the Ellwell Family Food Center to see which bakers can create the ugliest cake at the 2019 Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason49Episode4906

    Trainers and majestic animals compete at the Clydesdales, Percherons, and Draft Ponies Competition.

    ClipSeason49Episode4906

    Daring Kids ride sheep to see who can hold on the longest.

    ClipSeason49Episode4906

    Daring Kids ride sheep to see who can hold on the longest.

    ClipSeason49Episode4906

    Travis Graven visits the Elwell Family Food Center for the Innovative Chocolate Competition.

    ClipSeason49Episode4901

    Paul Yeager stops by the Food Center to meet this year's entrants in the canned vegetables contest.

    ClipSeason48Episode4806

    Showing animals is a big part of the State Fair experience - and this year we’re excited to showcase the dairy goats!

    ClipSeason48Episode4806

    There’s nothing like the power and might of the tractor and truck pull. Let’s head to the Grandstand to check out the action.

    ClipSeason48Episode4806

    Modern messaging methods like texting and emailing can never compare to good old fashioned YELLING - at the husband calling contest!

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    The truck and tractor pulls are a tradition at the State Fair Grandstand. Let’s take a walk behind the scenes with Mike Pearson.

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    Highlights from the 2017 Iowa State Fair Auctioneer Contest.

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    Tossing rubber chickens around might not be allowed or expected in very many public places, - but here at the State Fair, it’s encouraged - and awarded!

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    The State Fair is chock full of kids who show all sorts of animals - even unique ones, like llamas!

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    Whether big or small, the horses at the Jacobson Exhibition Center are entertainment in motion!

    ClipSeason48Episode4804

    The 4-H Sheep Show is the highlight of many young folks' summer. Iowa PBS's Mike Pearson brings us the excitement!

    ClipSeason48Episode4804

    Combining style and botanical skill, the flower and potted plant show is always a sunny part of the Fair!

    ClipSeason48Episode4803

    With a chance to go on to a national level, expert hot dog lovers participate in a dog-eat-dog competition.

    ClipSeason48Episode4803

    Meet the ladies competing for this year's title of Iowa State Fair Queen.

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    Here's a highlight from 2017's Tall Corn Contest.

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    The enterprising talents of Iowa’s FFA kids are showcased in the FFA Swine Show.

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    Abby Brown is at the Twins, Triplets and More contest to check out some sibling similarities…and disparities.

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    They’re hefty…spunky…and chunky. It’s time for a State Fair favorite - the Big Animals!

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    We all acknowledge that Mike Pearson knows a lot about agriculture - so let’s see how he does in a contest about one of agriculture’s arch enemies - weeds.

    ClipSeason47Episode4706

    Join contestants at Pioneer Hall to see who can yodel best.

    ClipSeason47Episode4704

    Who will have the finest beards at this year's Iowa State Fair Bear Growing Contest?

    ClipSeason47Episode4701

    Women assemble at Pioneer Hall to see who can create the best chicken call.

    ClipSeason46Episode4605

    A look at 4H students competing in the 2015 Grand Champion Steer Competition. 

    ClipSeason46Episode4605

    Watch some incredible players go head to head during the Speed Chess Tournament at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason46Episode4603

    What creative desserts can go on a stick? This competition might shed some light on the question. 

    ClipSeason46Episode4601

    Enjoy the ringing beauty of some of the finest mandolin playing in the state. 

    ClipSeason45Episode4505
    We all know Iowa PBS’s Paul Yeager likes to wear flannel shirts and lumberjack boots, so we sent him to the Wood chopping Contest.
    ClipSeason45Episode4504

    Dirt Track Racing held at the Iowa State Fair Grandstand.

    ClipSeason45Episode4504

    Stock car racing highlights and results from the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason45Episode4504

    A historical look at the Rubber Chicken Throwing Contest held each year at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason45Episode4503

    Watch Dirt Track Racing at the Iowa State Fair Grandstand hosted by Toby Kruse.

    ClipSeason45Episode4502

    This year heralds the 50th anniversary of crowning a State Fair Queen. It’s a glorious tradition kept alive by the candidate’s beauty, grace and stren...

    ClipSeason42Episode4206

    Contestants race to see who can finish a piece of pie the fastest.

Food

    ClipSeason55Episode5502
    Some bakers have been trying for years, even decades to win the Great Cinnamon Roll Challenge. Blair Ryan reports.
    ClipSeason54Episode5403
    Kids from across the state compete during the Chef Baking Championship at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason54Episode5401
    Travis Graven makes his way across the fairgrounds to sample some of the new foods at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeasonEpisode
    Easy cleanup, no mess and portability. Food on a stick solved a great number of fair food inconveniences.
    ClipSeason53Episode5305
    Fairgoers learn how food gets from the farm to the dinner table at the Farm to Fair Dinner.
    ClipSeason51Episode5104

    How have food competitions at the Fair evolved over the years?

    ClipSeason51Episode5104

    Contestants race to see who can finish a piece of pie the fastest.

    ClipSeason51Episode5103

    Cinnamon roll connoisseur Chuck Offenburger is on a quest for the Blue Ribbon best.

    ClipSeason51Episode5102

    These works of art almost look too good to eat. It's the 2019 Decorated Cakes Competition.

    ClipSeason51Episode5101

    Charity Nebbe and her friends have enjoyed a lot of Fair food over the years. Here are some favorites!

    ClipSeason50Episode5006

    These works of art almost look too good to eat. It's the 2019 Decorated Cakes Competition.

    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    What weird shapes are in store for the 2019 Iowa State Fair Most Unusual Vegetable Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5001

    Travis Graven visits the Ellwell Family Food Center to see which bakers can create the ugliest cake at the 2019 Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason50Episode5001

    We meet the Iowa Honey Producers at the 2019 Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason49Episode4906

    Travis Graven visits the Elwell Family Food Center for the Innovative Chocolate Competition.

    ClipSeason49Episode4901

    Paul Yeager stops by the Food Center to meet this year's entrants in the canned vegetables contest.

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    Food at the Fair has always been a highlight. Our fantastic friend Dean Borg explores Fair foods of the past in another State Fair Flashback!

    ClipSeason48Episode4803

    The all-American summer drink, lemonade, has been offered here at the Fair for decades. 

    ClipSeason48Episode4803

    With a chance to go on to a national level, expert hot dog lovers participate in a dog-eat-dog competition.

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    Here's a highlight from 2017's Tall Corn Contest.

    ClipSeason47Episode4704

    Enjoy these homegrown heirloom tomatoes and find out which is the best at this year's Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason46Episode4605

    We explore the back rooms where Iowa producers are preparing the meat for the Iowa State Fair-goers.

    ClipSeason46Episode4603

    What creative desserts can go on a stick? This competition might shed some light on the question. 

    ClipSeason45Episode4506

    Fair food - when you’re here you can smell it, see it and of course taste it! It’s probably safe to say it’s irresistible. And I’m probably even safer...

    ClipSeason44Episode4401

    Wonder what fair food was like forty years ago? Take a look at what fair food was like in this vintage Iowa PBS clip.

    ClipSeason43Episode4304

    Join Charity Nebbe, host of Iowa PBS's new cooking series Iowa Ingredient, as she explores some tasty and unique flavors of the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason43Episode4303

    Join Charity Nebbe, host of Iowa PBS's cooking series Iowa Ingredient, as she explores some tasty and unique flavors of the Iowa State Fair. ...

    ClipSeason43Episode4302

    Join Charity Nebbe, host of Iowa PBS's cooking series Iowa Ingredient, as she explores some tasty and unique flavors of the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason43Episode4301

    Join Charity Nebbe, host of Iowa PBS's new cooking series Iowa Ingredient, as she explores some tasty and unique flavors of the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason43Episode4301

    Discover just what it takes to grow an abnormally large pumpkin.

Grand Concourse

    ClipSeason55Episode5501
    The Iowa State Fair's most iconic ride is celebrating its 50th birthday.
    ClipSeason54Episode5405
    The annual tradition continues at the Iowa State Fair, where we honor those who have served for our country.
    ClipSeason54Episode5401
    The Iowa State Fair continues to have a place in the national spotlight. Media from around the world visit to show what the fair has to offer.
    ClipSeasonEpisode
    Goodbye miles-long traffic jams. Hello, Grand Concourse.
    ClipSeason51Episode5105

    The best of Iowa State Fair chainsaw carving.

    ClipSeason51Episode5105

    Skip Nelson and Sara Frasher introduce viewers to the IPBN mobile unit on the Grand Concourse in 1974.

    ClipSeason51Episode5105

    Champion spellers show off their skills in the Family Center.

    ClipSeason51Episode5104

    Presidents and presidential candidates love to visit the fair.

    ClipSeason51Episode5103

    Buttons might be a clown, but he takes his job welcoming people to the Fair very seriously.

    ClipSeason51Episode5103

    Fairgoers have engaged in some quirky races over the years, including pumpkins, zucchini, donkeys and scooters!

    ClipSeason51Episode5102

    The coals are hot, the food is prepped - grab your forks everyone and let’s see what’s cookin’ on the Grand Concourse!

    ClipSeason51Episode5102

    Square dancing tractors on the Grand Concourse in 2001.

    ClipSeason51Episode5102

    Watch some incredible players go head to head during the Speed Chess Tournament at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason51Episode5101

    This pedal powered theatrical circus towers over the crowd on an 18 foot high structure. Acts such as contortion, Chinese poles and trapeze will be featured on the large structure, strolling down the Grand Concourse.

    ClipSeason51Episode5101

    Here is a tour of the fair grounds with a birds eye view!

    ClipSeason51Episode5101

    Compare Grand Concourse races of the 1980s and today.

    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    Here are some highlights from the 2019 Iowa State Fair Veterans Parade.

    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    Dean Borg visits the Iowa State Fair Museum to learn about some interesting historical anecdotes about past fairs.

    ClipSeason50Episode5002

    Take a tour of the fair on the sky glider.

    ClipSeason47Episode4702

    This pedal powered theatrical circus towers over the crowd on an 18 foot high structure. Acts such as contortion, Chinese poles and trapeze will be featured on the large structure, strolling down the Grand Concourse.

    ClipSeason46Episode4605

    Ye Old Mill has been attracting riders for just over 100 years! Go with with us as we take you on this popular (and dark) boat ride.

    ClipSeason46Episode4605

    Watch some incredible players go head to head during the Speed Chess Tournament at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason46Episode4604

    Why is the Iowa State Fair considered by many as the best in the country?

    ClipSeason44Episode4406

    The buildings around the Iowa State Fairgrounds are some of the most architecturally unique exposition structures across the country.

Grandstand

    ClipSeason55Episode5502
    Abby Brown brings us the storied Mexican tradition of charreria at the Elwell Family Park.
    ClipSeason54Episode5406
    The thunder of big trucks and tractors are back for the 2023 Iowa State Fair
    ClipSeasonEpisode
    The dirt track racers of the early 1900s were big superstars, like today's football players or rock stars.
    ClipSeasonEpisode
    The need for a large gathering space that could seat thousands made the Grandstand a focal point for the modernization of the fairgrounds.
    ClipSeasonEpisode
    Fairgoers took great pleasure in experiencing the danger, mayhem and destruction of many fair spectacles.
    ClipSeason51Episode5105

    The 1990 Great Truck Jump - the finest of Grandstand spectacles!

    ClipSeason51Episode5103

    Combines battle it out on the dirt track at the Iowa State Fair Grandstand.

    ClipSeason51Episode5101

    In this rodeo sport, teams of horses lead covered wagons to the finish line on the dirt track.

    ClipSeason50Episode5005

    Learn about some of the races that used to take place at the Iowa State Fair Grandstand.

    ClipSeason49Episode4902

    Dean Borg stops by the historic museum at the fairgrounds to learn about the various forms of entertainment that have taken place at the Grandstand.

    ClipSeason48Episode4806

    There’s nothing like the power and might of the tractor and truck pull. Let’s head to the Grandstand to check out the action.

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    The truck and tractor pulls are a tradition at the State Fair Grandstand. Let’s take a walk behind the scenes with Mike Pearson.

    ClipSeason48Episode4804

    The Fair is always thrilling - and as Dean Borg finds out in tonight’s Fair Flashback - sometimes those thrills were mind-blowing!

    ClipSeason45Episode4504

    Stock car racing highlights and results from the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason45Episode4504

    Dirt Track Racing held at the Iowa State Fair Grandstand.

    ClipSeason45Episode4503

    Watch Dirt Track Racing at the Iowa State Fair Grandstand hosted by Toby Kruse.

    ClipSeason44Episode4406

    The buildings around the Iowa State Fairgrounds are some of the most architecturally unique exposition structures across the country.

History

    ClipSeason54Episode5401
    Fairgoers take a nighttime tour to learn more about the history of the fair in a social gathering at the Iowa State Fair Museum.
    ClipSeason53Episode5304
    What's changed over the last 40 years in the livestock barns? We dig into the Iowa PBS archives to find out.
    ClipSeason53Episode5303
    Take a trip through the Iowa PBS archives for a look back at the famous Butter Cow sculptor, Duffy Lyon.
    ClipSeason50Episode5005

    Learn about some of the races that used to take place at the Iowa State Fair Grandstand.

    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    Dean Borg visits the Iowa State Fair Museum to learn about some interesting historical anecdotes about past fairs.

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    Food at the Fair has always been a highlight. Our fantastic friend Dean Borg explores Fair foods of the past in another State Fair Flashback!

    ClipSeason48Episode4804

    The Fair is always thrilling - and as Dean Borg finds out in tonight’s Fair Flashback - sometimes those thrills were mind-blowing!

    ClipSeason46Episode4604

    Why is the Iowa State Fair considered by many as the best in the country?

    ClipSeason45Episode4506

    Fair food - when you’re here you can smell it, see it and of course taste it! It’s probably safe to say it’s irresistible. And I’m probably even safer...

Livestock Pavilion and Barns

    ClipSeason55Episode5503
    Visit the Jacobson Exhibition center for a fast moving and exciting sport that’s straight out of the old Western movies.
    ClipSeason54Episode5404
    Meet Elivia Papcun, 2022 Cowgirl Queen, who shows what it takes to win the coveted title.
    ClipSeason54Episode5404
    Iowa Celebrities show cattle at the 2023 Governors Charity Steer Show.
    ClipSeason54Episode5404
    Some of the finest pigs in the state are shown during the 4H Market Swine Show at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason54Episode5403
    The classic competition of strength. It's the Monster Arm Wrestling Event at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason54Episode5402
    The annual contest to see which animals tip the scales at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason54Episode5401
    Some of the best sheep shearers in the country make their way to the Sheep Barn to compete in the 2023 Sheep Shearing Contest at the Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeason54Episode5401
    4-H students from across Iowa compete with their horses during the 2023 Iowa State Fair 4-H Horse Show.
    ClipSeasonEpisode
    Visitors come from around the country to see and purchase various breeds of livestock at the Iowa State Fair.
    ClipSeasonEpisode
    The Iowa State Fair takes the livestock barns from temporary to something more permanent.
    ClipSeason53Episode5303
    Kids get to help with some morning chores. And the reward is some snuggle time with baby animals.
    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    We visit the 2019 Youth Livestock Judging Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    Paul Yeager makes his way to the Poultry and Rabbit Barn to check out some of the pigeons at the 2019 Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason50Episode5003

    Experience the sights and sounds of the Iowa State Fair Cattle Barn.

    ClipSeason49Episode4906

    Trainers and majestic animals compete at the Clydesdales, Percherons, and Draft Ponies Competition.

    ClipSeason48Episode4806

    Showing animals is a big part of the State Fair experience - and this year we’re excited to showcase the dairy goats!

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    Tossing rubber chickens around might not be allowed or expected in very many public places, - but here at the State Fair, it’s encouraged - and awarded!

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    Here is a tour of the Poultry Barn

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    Whether big or small, the horses at the Jacobson Exhibition Center are entertainment in motion!

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    The State Fair is chock full of kids who show all sorts of animals - even unique ones, like llamas!

    ClipSeason48Episode4804

    The 4-H Sheep Show is the highlight of many young folks' summer. Iowa PBS's Mike Pearson brings us the excitement!

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    The enterprising talents of Iowa’s FFA kids are showcased in the FFA Swine Show.

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    They’re hefty…spunky…and chunky. It’s time for a State Fair favorite - the Big Animals!

    ClipSeason47Episode4705

    Who can chop and saw wood the fastest?

    ClipSeason47Episode4704

    Learn how people wash and clean their chickens to get them show ready for upcoming competitions.

    ClipSeason46Episode4606

    Learn about some of the magnificent horses at the 2015 Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason46Episode4605

    Ye Old Mill has been attracting riders for just over 100 years! Go with with us as we take you on this popular (and dark) boat ride.

    ClipSeason46Episode4605

    A look at 4H students competing in the 2015 Grand Champion Steer Competition. 

    ClipSeason46Episode4604

    Follow the story of one man putting together his draft horse team. 

Pioneer Hall

    ClipSeason54Episode5406
    There's no shortage of great music to be heard at Pioneer Hall. Here's a quick sample.
    ClipSeason54Episode5405
    We check in on some of the spectacular beards on display at the 2023 Iowa State Fair Beard Contest.
    ClipSeason54Episode5402
    Enjoy the soft, soothing sounds of the Youth Rooster & Ladies Chicken Callin' Contest up at Pioneer Hall.
    ClipSeason51Episode5104

    The Great Cowchip Throw of 1996, with Peter Hamlin and Pat Boddy.

    ClipSeason51Episode5104

    Who can chop and saw wood the fastest?

    ClipSeason51Episode5104

    Kids take the stage and see who has the best joke in this funny and cute joke telling competition.

    ClipSeason51Episode5104

    Here is a tour of Pioneer Hall.

    ClipSeason51Episode5103

    Kids see who can push their wobbly egg the furthest during the Iowa State Fair Egg Rolling Contest.

    ClipSeason51Episode5103

    Strong women drive 8 penny nails at Pioneer Hall. With Pat Boddy.

    ClipSeason51Episode5103

    Morgan Halgren takes us to the 2003 yodeling contest at Pioneer Hall.

    ClipSeason51Episode5102

    A look at how rolling pin throwing became rubber chicken throwing at Pioneer Hall.

    ClipSeason51Episode5102

    Men from across the state enter their whiskers in the Beard Growing Contest. Who will have the most luxurious beard?

    ClipSeason51Episode5102

    Ladies gently beckon their adoring husbands.

    ClipSeason51Episode5102

    Mike Newell introduces us to poultry calling contests.

    ClipSeason51Episode5101

    Here's a highlight from 2017's Tall Corn Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5006

    Meet some future comedians at the 2019 Kids Joke Telling Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5005

    We visit Pioneer Hall to listen in on some of the competitors at the 2019 Accordion Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5003

    We head up to Pioneer Hill to meet some of people pitching horseshoes at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason50Episode5003

    We head up to Pioneer Hill to meet some of people pitching horseshoes at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason48Episode4806

    Modern messaging methods like texting and emailing can never compare to good old fashioned YELLING - at the husband calling contest!

    ClipSeason48Episode4805

    Tossing rubber chickens around might not be allowed or expected in very many public places, - but here at the State Fair, it’s encouraged - and awarded!

    ClipSeason48Episode4803

    Here is a tour of Pioneer Hall.

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    Here's a highlight from 2017's Tall Corn Contest.

    ClipSeason47Episode4706

    Join contestants at Pioneer Hall to see who can yodel best.

    ClipSeason47Episode4705

    Who can chop and saw wood the fastest?

    ClipSeason47Episode4704

    Who will have the finest beards at this year's Iowa State Fair Bear Growing Contest?

    ClipSeason47Episode4702

    Kids see who can push their wobbly egg the furthest during the Iowa State Fair Egg Rolling Contest. 

    ClipSeason47Episode4701

    Women assemble at Pioneer Hall to see who can create the best chicken call.

    ClipSeason46Episode4604

    Step back in time to experience the sights, sounds and smells of antique tractors at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason46Episode4601

    Enjoy the ringing beauty of some of the finest mandolin playing in the state. 

    ClipSeason45Episode4505
    We all know Iowa PBS’s Paul Yeager likes to wear flannel shirts and lumberjack boots, so we sent him to the Wood chopping Contest.
    ClipSeason45Episode4504

    A historical look at the Rubber Chicken Throwing Contest held each year at the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason44Episode4406

    The buildings around the Iowa State Fairgrounds are some of the most architecturally unique exposition structures across the country.

Riley Stage

    ClipSeason55Episode5501
    Siblings who share a birthday compete in most alike and least alike contests.
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    Son Peruchos, based in Des Moines, Iowa, is a fusion of Andean and South American folk music utilizing traditional instruments such as the zampona, quena and charango.
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    Bill Riley was fascinated by talented people, especially young people, and started the Bill Riley Talent Search, which continues to give young Iowans the chance to shine every year.
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    A tribute to nearly five decades of Iowa State Fair Queens!

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    Bill Riley reflects on how hard it is to predict who is going to win the Bill Riley Talent Show Championships at the Iowa State Fair each year.

    ClipSeason51Episode5100

    Bill Riley remembers the year a storm came in during the Iowa State Fair Queen contest.

    ClipSeason51Episode5100

    Bill Riley reflects on how it's impossible to pick a favorite act.

    ClipSeason51Episode5100

    Bill Riley reflects on the summer of 2020.

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    Bill Riley reflects on what the Bill Riley Talent Search means to the young people who perform.

    ClipSeason50Episode5005

    Meet some of the competitors at the Shining Star Competition.

    ClipSeason50Episode5005

    Who can blow the biggest bubble at the 2019 Iowa State Fair Bubblegum Blowing Contest?

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    Take a look at the highlights from the 2019 Iowa State Fair Queen Contest.

    ClipSeason50Episode5003

    Take a look at the highlights from the 2019 Iowa State Fair Queen Contest.

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    Highlights from the 2017 Iowa State Fair Auctioneer Contest.

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    Meet the ladies competing for this year's title of Iowa State Fair Queen.

    ClipSeason48Episode4801

    Abby Brown is at the Twins, Triplets and More contest to check out some sibling similarities…and disparities.

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    This year heralds the 50th anniversary of crowning a State Fair Queen. It’s a glorious tradition kept alive by the candidate’s beauty, grace and stren...

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    Contestants race to see who can finish a piece of pie the fastest.

Thrills

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    Travis Graven heads to Thrillzone to check in on the extreme Slingshot ride.
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    Watch as time is sped up to see the midway get setup and come to life.
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    Fair organizers realized it would be advantageous to have more entertainment to attract people to the fair, but their vision of a strictly educational fair was challenged by the desires of fairgoers.
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    Bungee jumping was all the rage in 1992. Videographer Jason Cooley goes above and beyond to bring the experience to viewers at home.

    ClipSeason51Episode5103

    Round and round it goes. What makes this Ferris wheel at the Iowa State Fair so special?

    ClipSeason51Episode5103

    Ye Old Mill has been attracting riders for just over 100 years! Go with with us as we take you on this popular (and dark) boat ride.

    ClipSeason51Episode5102

    Nearly fifty years of fun on the Midway.

    ClipSeason51Episode5101

    Take a tour of the Iowa State Fair midway.

    ClipSeason50Episode5005

    Visit the Midway and check out some of the 2019 Iowa State Fair rides.

    ClipSeason50Episode5004

    Dean Borg visits the Iowa State Fair Museum to learn about some interesting historical anecdotes about past fairs.

    ClipSeason50Episode5002

    Take a tour of the fair on the sky glider.

    ClipSeason49Episode4906

    Take a tour of the Iowa State Fair midway.

    ClipSeason46Episode4605

    Ye Old Mill has been attracting riders for just over 100 years! Go with with us as we take you on this popular (and dark) boat ride.

    ClipSeason45Episode4503

    Take a look at some of the thrill rides of the Iowa State Fair.

    ClipSeason44Episode4404

    Round and round it goes. What makes this Ferris wheel at the Iowa State Fair so special?