Good morning, Des Moines.

Despite rain and a heat advisory on Friday, Aug.

8, 104,191 people still visited the Iowa State Fair as it runs from Aug. 7 through Aug. 17—Grandstand acts like Parker McCollum and Forrest Frank drew thousands of fans. This number is slightly lower than last year’s attendance on the same day.

Photos from the Iowa State Fair on Aug.

9, 2025 in Des Moines show UTV and ATV racing, fairgoers walking on Grand Avenue and children interacting near the butter cow — the images capture various moments from a busy day at the fair.

On Saturday, Aug. 9, Riah Schrage of Grundy County was crowned the Iowa State Fair queen, fulfilling her childhood dream as cheers filled the air and she received a $3,000 scholarship + additional prizes.

As queen, the 17-year-old will attend fairs and other events while preparing for college and pursuing music education.

At the Iowa State Fair on August 8, couples, families and friends gathered at the midway to play carnival games in hopes of winning stuffed animals and enjoying fair traditions.

Contestants felt friendly pressure and mixed success — some taking home giant plush toys while others continued trying for better wins — making the games a fun test of skill and persistence.

On Aug. 7, a Register reporter rode 10 rides at the Iowa State Fair’s Thrill Ville to rank their nausea levels—he rated the Centrifuge a five and noted that rides like Fire Ball and Rock Star also challenged riders.

US Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Gov. Kim Reynolds announced $152 million in Iowa rural development projects for 19 programs at the State Fair—plans that will help rural communities with job growth.

Joe Gatto, a Des Moines City Council member serving since 2014, is running for a seat on the Polk County Board of Supervisors - he will leave his council post and restaurant work if elected - and he plans to focus on social services such as homelessness, mental health and affordability - the election is scheduled for November 3 -.

New Functional Fitness Class at DM Yoga and Wellness

This FUNctional fitness class will increase your strength for everyday living!!

Iowa State Fair

7 PM – 1 AM — Iowa State Fairgrounds — Waitlist available — Experience the excitement of Iowa's largest outdoor event with food, rides, and entertainment.

VolunTEENS Library Opportunity

4-5 p.m. — Des Moines Public Library - Central Library — Volunteer opportunity — Help out at the library while gaining community service experience.

Sara Sato's 'Notes from the Sea' Exhibit Opening

6:30-8 p.m. — Heritage Art Gallery — Free entry — Explore a unique meditation on our relationship with nature through the diverse stories of water and its enigmatic inhabitants.

Jane Monheit Performance

7 PM — Noce — Cost not listed — Experience the enchanting jazz interpretations of vocalist Jane Monheit.

RnB Brunch DSM

4-8 p.m. — 319 SW 5th St, Des Moines, IA — Ticket required — Savor a delicious brunch with bottomless mimosas while enjoying soulful R&B tunes and karaoke fun.

Summer Music Series: Jonas Magram at Exile Brewing

5-7:30 p.m. — Exile Brewing Company — $4.50 pints all-day — Enjoy live music and patio vibes with cold beer at this community gathering.

Franklin Cinema Club - Once Upon a Time in the West

6:30-7:45 p.m. — Franklin Avenue Library — Free entry — Explore the classic western epic Once Upon a Time in the West and engage in film discussions.

The Pigeon Visits the Library

4:00 – 4:45 p.m. — Franklin Avenue Library — Free entry — Participate in a whimsical storytime with The Pigeon and capture fun memories with photos.

Generation Rx Program

7-8 p.m. — 1000 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA — Free entry — Learn safe medication practices to enhance your health and well-being through informed choices.

Cloakroom

7-8:30 p.m. — xBk Live — Live music event — Experience the haunting melodies of Glass Ox as they perform 'Rushes of Evil'.