At the Iowa State Fairgrounds, these little guys were able to practice for the days when they can drive the big machines.
More than one million folks wandered the 445 acres of the fairgrounds during the fair’s 11-day run from August 11 through 21.
One of the most popular FFA and 4-H projects is equipment restoration. More than 75 tractors made it to the fair this year.
The highlight of the 2011 fair was the 100th anniversary of the butter cow. The frame starts with wood, metal, wire and steel mesh and about 600 lbs. of low-moisture pure cream Iowa butter. That’s enough to butter 19, 200 slices of toast and take an average person two lifetimes to consume.
Corn power abounds at the fair. Whether it’s single ear, largest ear, 10 ears yellow corn, 30 ears, full gallon shelled corn or the tall corn entries (winner was 16 ft., 11 in.), the state's pride and joy fills part of the agriculture center.
Fatty, weighing in at 1,174 lbs., took second in the big boar contest. Tiny, a hefty Hampshire hog, tipped the scales at an impressive 1,196 lbs.
Bidding is not for the faint of heart for the 4-H and FFA champion animals. The grand champion steer sold for $45,000, just $5,000 short of the all-time record.
No matter your surroundings, it’s certainly a good idea to get out of your pen and see the competition that comes from other parts of the state.
There was something for everyone at the Iowa State Fair Midway, from the infamous double Ferris wheel and new Rock N Roll Himalaya to kiddie rides and games of skill.
