Iowans can stride toward a healthier future by stepping back in time during the 12th annual Iowa State Fair Historical Walking Tour that kicks off the Iowa State Fair Thursday, August 13. As the nation celebrates America’s 250th birthday, this year’s tour offers a meaningful opportunity to explore the rich history and traditions of one of Iowa’s most beloved institutions.
Co-hosted by the State Historical Society of Iowa and the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative, the historical walking tour is included with admission to the Iowa State Fair.
Governor Kim Reynolds will be joined by State Historical Society of Iowa Administrator Valerie Van Kooten, Department of Administrative Services Director Mark Campbell, and Iowa Healthiest State Initiative Executive Director Jami Haberl.
Led by State Historical Society of Iowa Curator Hanna Howard and K-12 Education Coordinator Rachel Hansen, the tour will start at 8:15 a.m. near the Administration Building on the Grand Concourse and will finish about 45 minutes later, in time for the fair’s opening ceremony at the Horse Barn. The route is approximately 1 kilometer, or about 1,500 steps for an average walker. Guides from the State Historical Society of Iowa will share stories at historic sites along the way.
“The historical walking tour is quickly becoming a popular way for fairgoers to kick off the fair,” Van Kooten said. “What better way to get a behind-the-scenes tour at some of our favorite buildings, people, and traditions?”
Iowans from all walks of life have crossed paths at this dynamic cultural gathering for more than a century. This year’s tour highlights include the following:
- The Iowa State Fair arts exhibition and Grant Wood
- Youth participation at the Iowa State Fair and Jessie Field Shambaugh, the mother of 4-H
- Origins of the Iowa State Fair’s swine song: the hog-calling contest
“There’s no better way to begin the Iowa State Fair than by getting active and spending time with fellow Iowans,” Haberl said. “We’re grateful to partner with the State Historical Society of Iowa to celebrate both healthy living and the history that brings our communities together.”
Details about the program can be found at Iowa State Fair Historical Walking Tour.
