The Iowa State Fair Parade, August 12, 2026, at 6:15 p.m., serves as the official kick-off to the 2026 Iowa State Fair. The parade will travel from the Capitol down Grand Avenue and march west to 15th Street. Approximately 145 entries are registered in this year’s parade, and awards will be given in band, horse and general categories. Iowa PBS will broadcast live starting at 6:15 p.m.
Retired Grandstand security personnel, Russ and Terry Slight, have been selected as the 2026 Iowa State Fair Parade Marshals. Together, the couple has dedicated more than four decades to Grandstand security and operations. Russ recalled that his first show was for the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and some of his fondest memories were getting to meet bands that he grew up listening to. Congratulations to Russ and Terry on their retirement and for the many years they worked behind the scenes so thousands could enjoy their favorite bands on the Grandstand.
The 2026 Iowa State Fair runs from August 13-23, 2026. Visit iowastatefair.org for the full daily schedule, download the official Iowa State Fair App or text FAIR to 844.844.8508 for the latest information.
