Iowa Fairs & Festivals: The Complete 2026 Guide
Iowa hosts 143 fairs and festivals in 2026 across 56 counties — agricultural fairs, craft shows, food festivals, and seasonal celebrations. Season peaks in July, September, August. This guide covers the best-rated events, when to go, and how to find fairs near you.
Best-rated fairs & festivals in Iowa
5(151)Des Moines Fall Reptile Show
Des Moines Fall Reptile Show will be held on November 15th, 2026.
5(3)Clarinda Craft Carnival
Clarinda Craft Carnival will be held on October 17th, 2026.
5(2)Des Moines Reptile Show
Des Moines Reptile Show will be held on September 27th, 2026.
5(1)Waukee Arts Festival
Waukee Arts Festival will be held on July 17-18, 2026.
5(1)Hometown Holiday Craft and Vendor Show
Hometown Holiday Craft and Vendor Show will be held on December 5-6, 2026.
4.9(36)Council Bluffs Arts and Crafts Show
Council Bluffs Arts and Crafts Show will be held on December 5-6, 2026.
When to go
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Frequently asked questions
How many fairs and festivals are there in Iowa in 2026?
Our directory lists 143 fairs and festivals across Iowa, spanning 56 counties for the 2026 season — from agricultural fairs and craft shows to food festivals and seasonal celebrations.
When is fair season in Iowa?
Iowa's fair and festival season runs throughout the year, but it peaks in July, September, August. July alone has 38 events.
What is the most popular fair in Iowa?
By Google reviews, Des Moines Fall Arts and Crafts Show in Des Moines is among the most popular, holding a 4.6★ rating from 8,181 reviews.
What types of fairs and festivals are in Iowa?
The most common are craft (110), food festival (94), artisan (65), seasonal (47). You can browse any type, or filter by town, county, and month.