The Iowa State Fair is famous for fried food, entertainment, the butter cow and sightings of politicians gearing up for close election races. While the fair is outstanding in all of these aspects, the state fair is ultimately much more than this.

First and foremost, fairs provide a variety of opportunities for youth to hone their skills.  In particular, the state fair is the pinnacle of the year for 4-H members.

Every year 4-H members choose a project area they want to learn more about. It can be anything from photography to home improvement to more traditional, agriculturally-focused projects like cattle, crops and horticulture.

Throughout the year 4-H members learn more about these project areas. Their experience culminates with the creation of an exhibit detailing their new insights for a show at the county fair.  

At the fair, judges interview the contestants and award their exhibits ribbons based on their merits. If a 4-H member does well enough, their exhibit is sent on to the State Fair where it is in contention to receive more awards.

In addition, 4-H offers opportunities for competition in public speaking, livestock and demonstrations at the state fair. All of these provide middle and high schoolers a chance to explore their interests and develop their skills in public speaking, citizenship and leadership.

Fairs also offer the public a chance to examine industries and professions they don’t otherwise have a chance to directly interact with. For many, this is the only time of year that they can see where their food comes from and directly talk to producers.

As the number of farmers in our country continues to decline, it is vitally important that the average American is educated about how their food is produced — mainly through the work of farmers who grow crops and raise livestock.

A good example of this is the grape stomp at the Iowa State Fair. Iowans can learn about the winemaking industry while stomping on grapes the old-fashioned way. Visitors to the state fair also have the opportunity to see baby animals and learn more about animal agriculture in the Animal Learning Center.  

Iowa State’s own dairy science club also gives fairgoers a chance to learn about and try milking cows through their “I Milked a Cow” program at the state fair.

Ultimately, this is what the state fair is all about.  More than just fried foods and concerts, the fair gives an opportunity for all Iowans to experience agriculture, learn about things they are interested in and encounter people from various backgrounds.

This year’s fair is now over and gone, but take the chance to go and learn something new next summer.