October 24, 2026

Des Moines, Iowa

A free event for the whole family

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Celebrate With Us

America’s Harvest Festival will transform the Iowa Capitol Grounds into an immersive celebration of history, agriculture, and community. From hands-on exhibits to festive entertainment, visitors of all ages will experience the people, traditions, and ideas that have shaped Iowa and our nation.

Celebrate With Us

Celebrating 250 Years of America. Telling Iowa’s Story

On October 24, 2026, join fellow Iowans at the State Capitol for a one-of-a-kind celebration of the people, innovations and agricultural heritage that helped build our nation.

Saturday, October 24, 2026
1 – 7 PM
Iowa State Capitol Grounds
Des Moines, Iowa

America Turns 250. Iowa Has a Story to Tell.

As America celebrates its 250th birthday, Iowa is shining a spotlight on one of the industries that helped shape the nation from the very beginning.

For generations, Iowa farmers and agricultural innovators have helped feed communities, fuel economies and strengthen America. America’s Harvest Festival is a chance to celebrate that legacy and explore where it goes next.

The Experience

Education

The Next Generation Starts Here

America's future will be shaped by today's young innovators, problem-solvers and leaders. Through hands-on experiences and interactive learning, kids can discover the people, technology and ideas driving agriculture forward.

Agriculture

From Horsepower to High-Tech

Experience the full story of Iowa agriculture, from the tools and traditions that built our state to the innovations shaping its future. Explore exhibits featuring crops, livestock, technology, conservation and the people who continue to move agriculture forward. Whether you're a lifelong farmer or simply ag-curious, there's something new to discover.

History

The Story Behind the Harvest

Travel through 250 years of American history and uncover the vital role agriculture played in building the nation. Through storytelling, exhibits and historical displays, you'll see how generations of hardworking Americans helped feed a growing country and how Iowa became a cornerstone of that success.

Made in Iowa

The Best of Iowa, All in One Place

From handcrafted goods and specialty products to agricultural innovations and local businesses, discover what makes Iowa unique. Meet the makers and entrepreneurs whose work continues to strengthen communities across the state and take a piece of Iowa home with you.

Food & Live Entertainment

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Iowa's Best Takes Center Stage

Great celebrations deserve great food and great music. Enjoy delicious Iowa-inspired flavors, local favorites and live entertainment throughout the day. From toe-tapping performances to unforgettable food, this is where Iowa's talent, hospitality and hometown pride come together.

What To Expect

Set across a multi-block footprint in downtown Des Moines, the Harvest Festival will transform the Iowa Capitol Complex into an immersive celebration of all things harvest, farming and fall! Attendees of this iconic fall celebration can expect a dynamic, come-and-go experience designed for all ages.

Entertainment

Live Music
Historical Reenactments
Live cooking experiences

Food

Grilled favorites, sponsored by Fareway
Iowa’s best tastes and sips
Food trucks, drinks and snacks galore

Activities

Classic games and activities for all ages
Shop Iowa-made goods
Celebrate together with all of Iowa

Experiences

History brought to life
Innovation through the ages
Hands-on agricultural experiences

Entertainment

Live Music
Historical Reenactments
Live cooking experiences

Food

Grilled favorites, sponsored by Fareway
Iowa’s best tastes and sips
Food trucks, drinks and snacks galore

Activities

Classic games and activities for all ages
Shop Iowa-made goods
Celebrate together with all of Iowa

Experiences

History brought to life
Innovation through the ages
Hands-on agricultural experiences

Entertainment

Live Music
Historical reenactments and storytelling
Veteran commemoration painting
Carnival games
Hands-on demonstrations from the kitchen to the garden

Food

Local products from Choose Iowa partners
Grilled favorites from Hy-Vee
Pork & Beef Grillout with Fareway
Freshly popped kettle corn
Free Ice Cream from First Interstate Bank
Iowa-sourced beef jerky
Apple cider, hot chocolate, coffee and other fall inspired drinks
Infamous comfort foods and more

Activities

Classic games and activities for all ages
Education and celebration of Iowa’s role in American history
Rock painting for kids
A hunt for and opportunity to cash in on America’s Harvest Festival official wooden coins
Face painting
See and learn about livestock and wildlife
American history brought to life through stories and reenactments
A look at America’s equipment, technology, and transportation industries
Shop Iowa-made goods at the market and mercantile

Participating Organizations

Living History Farms

Iowa State Fair

Iowa National Guard

Schoolboy Soldiers of Rippey

Iowa Public Television

Iowa Secretary of State

Daughters of the American Revolution

Sons of the American Revolution

Children of the American Revolution

Bubba Sorenson

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge

Iowa Farm Bureau Federation

Iowa Corn Growers Association

Iowa Soybean Association

Food & Family Project

Iowa Pork Producers

Iowa Beef Council

Iowa Cattlemens

Iowa Egg Council

Iowa Turkey Federation

Iowa State University & Extension

Association of Business & Industry

Ruan Transportation

FAQs

Who should attend?

Everyone is invited and encouraged to attend America’s Harvest Festival at the Iowa Capitol! With entertainment, hands-on activities, food and more to explore for every age, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What is the cost?

There is no cost to attend America’s Harvest Festival, thanks to the support of generous private donors and sponsors. There will be free entertainment and activities to enjoy all day! There will be select Iowa-based food and vendors with items for purchase.

Why is this event happening?

America’s Harvest Festival is Iowa’s signature event in celebration of America’s 250th. The Festival offers an opportunity to showcase the impact that Iowa and the heartland have played in our nation’s incredible history. What better time to celebrate than fall in Iowa!

How can I get involved?

This event is the result of a combined effort of organizations and individuals from across Iowa and beyond. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, participating or partnering with the Harvest Festival, we’d love to hear from you. Fill out this form to get in touch.

Proud Sponsors

This event is made possible thanks to the generous contributions of our supporting sponsors. Each of these partners demonstrates the generous spirit of Iowans, and we’re proud to collaborate on this once-in-a-generation event.