July 1 Marks Deadline for State Fair Competitions, Parade Entries

DES MOINES, IA (06/20/2014)(readMedia)-- July 1 is the deadline to enter the Iowa State Fair parade and many of the Fair's competitive events. "Nothing Compares" to the Iowa State Fair, August 7-17.

Premium books and entry forms can be accessed at iowastatefair.org/premiumbooks. Entrants in competitive events may enter online or submit their entry by mail. While most entries are due July 1, deadlines do vary by department. Many departments will accept late entries through July 8 with an additional late fee. For more information regarding entry deadlines, competitions or the online entry system, contact the Competitive Events Department at 515/262-3111 ext. 207.

The Iowa State Fair also invites all community and youth groups, special interest clubs and businesses to join the fun and enter the "Amazingly Amusing" State Fair parade, Iowa's largest parade and the kick-off to the Fair.

Applications are available at iowastatefair.org/fair-attractions/parade or by contacting Tonya Cook at 515/262-3111 ext. 215 or tcook@iowastatefair.org. There is a $25 fee for each parade entry. Entries postmarked later than July 1 must include a $15 late fee. No entries will be accepted after July 15.

The parade, set for Wednesday, August 6, will begin at 6:15 p.m. in downtown Des Moines. Spectators will be able to watch an estimated 200 floats, animals, vehicles, novelty and performing units. Staging will take place at the State Capitol Complex. Parade entrants will then travel west on Grand Avenue to 13th Street. Dispersion will take place between 13th and 18th Streets.

Highlights of the gala event will be re-broadcast on parade night throughout central Iowa on KDSM 17 beginning at 10 p.m. To be considered for television coverage, the description information on the application must be completed and returned. Due to the length of the parade, it is not possible for all entries to be televised.

"Nothing Compares" to the 2014 Iowa State Fair, August 7-17. The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines. Discounted gate admission tickets are on sale now through our convenient print at home ticket option at iowastatefair.org. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or visit iowastatefair.org.

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