|
Hey Friends,
Nothing feels more Midwest summer to me than a state fair.
There is just something about the rides, the lemonade smell of fried food, and the giant barns full of animals that screams "MIDWEST" to me.
It is one of the most classic Midwest experiences there is.
And then of course… there is the butter cow. It always cracks me up because apparently Midwesterners looked at butter and thought: “What if I sculpted that into a cow?”
Check out the Midwest State Fairs below and make plans to go to one! Be sure to keep reading for the State Fair Tips at the end.
|
|
|
Midwest State Fairs We Loved
Iowa State Fair- Des Moines, Iowa
The Iowa State Fair is known for being one of the best state fairs in the country. It is HUGE and feels more like a giant summer festival than just a fair. The food was incredible and there was so much to do that it felt impossible to fit everything into one day.
One thing that's nice about this state fair, is that it's so actually in Des Moines, so you can make a full weekend of it, visiting the city and the fair.
2026 Dates: August 13–23, 2026
Location: Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines, Iowa
Illinois State Fair- Springfield, Illinois
The Illinois State Fair felt a little smaller and more manageable than Iowa, which was nice with little kids.
My favorite part was the entertainment. When we went, they had circus performances AND high-diving pirates, which were both very well done. I was impressed with the high-level shows, so if you make it to the Illinois State Fair, be sure to check those out.
2026 Dates: August 13–23, 2026
Location: Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, Illinois
|
|
|
The Midwest Fair Everyone Keeps Telling Me About
Minnesota State Fair- St. Paul, Minnesota
Okay, I have not been to this one yet, but people are INTENSELY passionate about it.
Apparently, Minnesotans and Iowans spend a decent amount of time debating which fair is better (which feels extremely on brand for the Midwest).
The Minnesota State Fair is known as “The Great Minnesota Get-Together,” and it is famous for:
- Massive food selections
- Endless food-on-a-stick options
- Huge attendance numbers
- Agriculture exhibits
- Concerts and entertainment
It is actually one of the largest state fairs in the entire country by attendance, which kind of blew my mind. At this point, I feel like I need to go just so I can properly participate in the Iowa vs. Minnesota fair debate and add my opinion to the mix.
2026 Dates: August 27–September 7, 2026
Location: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, St. Paul, Minnesota
|
|
|
Midwest State Fair Dates for 2026
Kansas State Fair
📍 Hutchinson, Kansas
🗓️ September 11–20, 2026
Missouri State Fair
📍 Sedalia, Missouri
🗓️ August 13–23, 2026
Nebraska State Fair
📍 Grand Island, Nebraska
🗓️ August 28–September 7, 2026
Indiana State Fair
📍 Indianapolis, Indiana
🗓️ July 31–August 16, 2026
Ohio State Fair
📍 Columbus, Ohio
🗓️ July 29–August 9, 2026
Wisconsin State Fair
📍 West Allis, Wisconsin
🗓️ August 6–16, 2026
Michigan State Fair
📍 Novi, Michigan
🗓️ September 3–7, 2026
|
|
|
State Fair Tips We’ve Learned
- Go EARLY in the day and on weekdays if possible. Heat + crowds get intense fast
- Bring cash, even though many vendors take cards now, not all of them do. Many also have a service fee for cards
- Share foods so you can try more things!
- Pack sunscreen and refillable water bottles
- Wear comfortable shoes and pack a stroller if you have one. I brought my kids a stroller even after we were mostly done using them. It was even nice for them to have a place to eat in the shade or to watch a show from if we couldn't find a seat.
- Be prepared to spend money. I didn't realize how much all the rides and food would add up!
Also, I fully support eating at least one thing that should not realistically exist on a stick.
|
|
|
Festival of Butterflies at Powell Gardens Discount Code
Powell Gardens is having their annual Festival of Butterflies through August 2nd. Admission includes admission to the beautiful gardens, activities, crafts, and tons of real butterflies! Use code EOFAMILY for $3 off tickets!
|
|
|
Summer of Soccer Pass in Lawrence
This is a great way to explore Lawrence and have fun. When you stop at places on the pass you earn points and collect prizes or can be entered for the sweepstakes! Plus, different locations offer discounts or free merchandise just for participating!
|
|
|
Summer Offers
Go see the Kansas City Royals for 20% off with my code OUTDOOR, valid Sun–Thurs through August 9.
|
|
|
Before You Go...
There is just something fun about a Midwest state fair.
Anywhere that celebrates farm animals, giant vegetables, demolition derbies, local pie competitions, and deep-fried desserts all in one place deserves all the hype.
Which state fair is your favorite?
Talk soon,
Amy
|
|
|
|
|
Thank you!
Thank you so much for being here and supporting me! It means so much to me that you’re here. I hope that I can provide value for you and your family, so you’re inspired to get out and explore more! Happy adventuring!
-Amy
|
|
|
|
