Behind the Curtain: The Quiet Work Behind the Iowa State Fair

Interview with Iowa State Fair Royalty

The May 2026 episode of the Iowa State Fair Podcast with hosts Max and Amy welcomes three remarkable women whose lives have been shaped by the Iowa State Fair Queen tradition: 2025 Iowa State Fair Queen Riah Schrage, former Queen and Dallas County Fair Queen coordinator Celeste Richardson, and 2018 Iowa State Fair Queen Hailey Van Maanen. Together, they share firsthand stories and share how the recognition is far more than a sash and a crown. Listeners will hear inspiring stories about confidence, leadership, friendship, and community. Riah reflects on her whirlwind year representing the Iowa State Fair, from visiting schools and hospitals to judging contests and even measuring beards at the Fair. Celeste offers an inside look at how county fair queen contests work and explains how contestants are coached in everything from interviews and public speaking to etiquette and handling tough real-world topics. Hailey shares emotional memories from her own crowning, how the Fair opened unexpected doors in broadcasting and performance, and why she continues mentoring future contestants today. Each guest emphasized that success is not about fitting a mold but about authenticity, confidence, and willingness to step outside your comfort zone. The episode is packed with insight, touching moments, and practical advice for young women considering competing or preparing for the future.

Fair Through the Years: Memories That Shaped the Iowa State Fair

In this April episode of the Iowa State Fair Podcast, hosts Maxwell and Amy lean into one of the show’s greatest strengths: Iowa State Fair Memories. And this time, the stories come from three voices who have lived the fair from deeply personal and very different angles—Roger Miller, Jan Higgins, and John Sample. Roger Miller opens the episode with a remarkable perspective shaped by more than five decades of hands-on work at the fair. From his early days learning the ropes in 1970 to leading crews of young workers preparing buildings and setting up major events, Roger reflects on how the fairgrounds have evolved—from unairconditioned structures to modern facilities—while emphasizing the enduring value of hard work, mentorship, and community. Jan Higgins brings a career-spanning view of leadership and legacy. Starting as a teenager taking tickets at Teen Town, she rose through the ranks to become Assistant Manager of the Iowa State Fair. Along the way, she helped shape operations, oversee entertainment, and even played a role in the early career of future CEO Jeremy Parsons. Her stories highlight both the behind-the-scenes challenges and the pride that comes with helping the fair grow into a source of statewide pride. John Sample rounds out the episode with warmth, humor, and unmatched longevity, having attended 77 consecutive fairs. A self-proclaimed “Mr. Positive,” John shares memories from sneaking into the fair as a kid to later supporting fair operations through his career in radio communications. His reflections capture the magic of the fair as a place where generations gather, traditions endure, and smiles are universal. Together, these stories paint a vivid picture of the Iowa State Fair—not just as an event, but as a lifelong connection.

How to Enter Iowa State Fair Competitions and Fairtime Contests

Ever wonder, “How do you enter something in the Iowa State Fair”? In this March 2026 episode of the Iowa State Fair Podcast, hosts Maxwell and Amy sit down with Competitive Events Director Jen Cannon and Entertainment Director Tonya Cook to talk about turning your talent into a blue ribbon. From pies to pigs, and everything in between, Jen breaks down how to enter Iowa State Fair competitions, including key deadlines, categories, and insider tips for first-time exhibitors. Learn when contest rules are released (April 1), when entries open (May 1), and how to submit everything from baked goods and garden produce to photography, crafts, and creative arts. You’ll also discover why beginners often win big, how anonymous judging works, and the difference between a blue ribbon and the coveted purple ribbon. The episode also highlights the incredible variety of categories available, including fan favorites like jumbo vegetables, dollhouses, and floral displays. Tonya Cook shares how to easily join the fun with Iowa State Fair’s famous walk-up contests, including husband calling, rubber chicken throwing, and more. No experience required. Just show up and participate! Listen to find out if she gives away any upcoming 2026 grandstand shows, free stage performances, and new attractions tied to the America250 celebration. If you’ve ever wondered how to compete, volunteer, perform, or simply get more involved in the Iowa State Fair, this episode is your guide. Find even more details at iowastatefair.org [http://iowastatefair.org/].

Celebrating America's 250th Birthday

In this episode, Podcast hosts Maxwell and Amy sit down with Iowa Lieutenant Governor Chris Cournoyer and Iowa State Fair CEO Jeremy Parsons to talk about upcoming America250 plans. Parsons shares plans for a once in a lifetime Fair, featuring nightly drone shows, a permanent art installation, a new veterans memorial walkway, and a special indoor historical exhibit exploring Iowa in 1776.  Lieutenant Governor Cournoyer expands the focus statewide, describing Iowa’s America250 that help communities showcase innovation, history, scenic byways, and local celebrations in 2026. She emphasizes a new statewide events hub at America250.iowa.gov [http://america250.iowa.gov/], including partnerships with education, arts, agriculture, and industry groups to spotlight Iowa’s people and achievements.  Together, the guests paint a picture of a year-long celebration where themes, student competitions, storytelling, and Iowa pride converge. 2026 may be the perfect year to rediscover Iowa and show your Fair Spirit!

Behind the Curtain: The Quiet Work Behind the Iowa State Fair

The first episode of 2026 invites you behind the curtain with Maxwell and Amy to meet the people who make the Iowa State Fair feel like home. These are the craftsmen, caretakers, and coordinators whose work often goes unseen but touches every visitor. You’ll hear from Ben Robey, who restores historic buildings with handmade carpentry; Steve Milosevic, who keeps major venues running smoothly (even after the sticky chaos of the “Coke Races”); Charlie McInroy, who brings thousands of flowers to life without a single irrigation system; and Dave Buttz, who manages one of the fair’s busiest buildings and treasures the joy of families walking through the gates. It’s a heartfelt look at the pride and passion that power the Fair all year long. And coming up next month: a sneak peek at the special celebrations planned for America’s 250th birthday at the 2026 fair. Learn more at IowaStateFair.org.