The 2008 Iowa State Fair is less than two weeks away. Marketing director Lori Chappell says Iowans will notice some big changes around the fairgrounds in Des Moines. The West Arena, which was located near the horse barn, is now located just east of the swine barn. A new stalling barn was also constructed in that area.
"In addition to that, we are under renovation at our Elwell Family Foods Center," Chappell said. "Work will continue on that until the 2009 fair, when that renovation will be complete." There will be some new items to tempt the taste buds around the fairgrounds – including pineapple on a stick.
"It’s fresh pineapple that’s sliced length wise, dipped in funnel cake batter and deep fried," Chappell said. "We are now up to more than 30 items that you can get on a stick, so it’s perfect if you want to eat on the go." Almost everyone that attends the fair on an annual basis, makes a point to visit the Agriculture Building to check out the Butter Cow. This year, sculptor Sarah Pratt of West Des Moines will also create a butter likeness of Olympic gymnist Shawn Johnson.
Chappell says the 40 degree cooler in the Ag Building will also include butter sculptures of four Iowans whose contributions to Agriculture have helped feed the world; Etta May Budd, George Washington Carver, Henry Wallace and Norman Borlaug. The Iowa State Fair, scheduled for August 7-17, will also include musical acts Josh Turner, Rick Springfield, Foreigner, Charlie Daniels, Tracey Lawrence, Def Leppard and more.