DES MOINES – The Iowa State Fair was a record-breaker in 2024. KCCI-TV reports the total attendance eclipsed 1.18 million attendees in 2024, about 12,000 more than the 1.17 million who came to the 2019 event. The all-time single day record was included on day three of the event on August 10th, fueled by pleasant and mild August weather. The 2025 Iowa State Fair is set for August 7th through the 17th.

IOWA – Crops remain behind their 2023 pace but ahead of the five year average according to this week’s Iowa Crop Progress and Condition report. Overall, 95% of the state’s crops, including corn, hay, pasture, and soybeans, are fair or better, with three-fourths of those rated good or better. All of those crops remain slight ahead of averages in terms of progress as well. Slightly drier conditions have been reported in some corners of the state in August, but widespread precipitation was observed yet again last week.