Heart-pounding stock car races. Action-packed demolition derbies. Vibrant Charros performances. Stunning tractor pulls. And gravity-defying linemen going head-to-head in a utilities rodeo for the ages.
All these events and even more dirt, speed and agility are set to return to the Elwell Family Park during this year’s Iowa State Fair. Over eight days, the northwestern corner of the fairgrounds will come alive with the best in outdoor entertainment, including fast-paced Figure 8 races, two days of the Outlaw Truck & Tractor Pulls and the ultimate display of Latino horsemanship with two exciting Charros shows.
Some events call for interested participants to register and others require tickets, which are on sale at a discount now. Check out the schedule and details below, and visit iowastatefair.org for more.
Antique Tractor Pull
Tractor pulling is a competition in which a modified tractor’s strength and its driver’s agility is pushed to the limit by pulling a weighed-down sled or “drag.” The tractor that pulls the drag the furthest wins.
Short Course UTV & ATV Cup
All-Terrain Vehicles and Utility Task Vehicles race on a short track that features sharp turns, jumps and obstacles.
Charros
A traditional Mexican equestrian performance, Charreria combines expert horsemanship with beautiful costumes and complex artistry.
Outlaw Truck & Tractor Pulls
Truck and tractor pulling are competitions in which a modified tractor or truck’s strength and its driver’s agility is pushed to the limit by pulling a weighed-down sled or “drag.” The tractor that pulls the drag the furthest wins. The Outlaw contests will feature different vehicles or classes on each show day.
Day one:
Day two:
Iowa’s Electric Utilities Lineman Rodeo
Utility linemen compete against one another in a series of events based on skills they use in their everyday work, including pole climbing and jumper replacement. This is a new event this year.
Demolition Derby
Cars try to out maneuver one another — and, yes, ram directly into each other — until only one is left operational.
Figure 8 Races
Stock cars race on the dangerous 8-shaped track.
Where is Elwell Family Fun Park?
Located in the northwest corner of the fairgrounds, Elwell Family Fun Park is an outdoor arena that features bleachers and covered seating. Concessions and restrooms are available on site.
How do I buy tickets?
Pre-fair tickets are on sale for a discount at iowastatefair.org.
Courtney Crowder is the Register’s Iowa Columnist and main reporter at the Iowa State Fair. Send story ideas to ccrowder@dmreg.com or leave a message at 515-284-8360
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa State Fair tractor pull, demolition derby and stock car race tickets available
Reporting by Courtney Crowder, Des Moines Register / Des Moines Register
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