State fairs, especially those in Minnesota and Iowa, encapsulate the essence of summer. They blend nostalgia with novelty, and a chance to immerse yourself in the moment.
A Day at the Iowa State Fair
In the summer of 2019, my youngest son and I attended the Iowa State Fair with my dad and his wife, both 90 years old. We anticipated a short visit — maybe a few hours — but they had other plans.
They reserved electric scooters and came with a detailed itinerary. We navigated exhibits, watched talent competitions, and enjoyed a pork chop dinner. It wasn’t easy keeping up with two seniors on scooters who couldn’t hear their phones, but the day was filled with laughter, discovery, and fulfillment.
My dad’s determination to enjoy every moment, telling us it might be his last visit, was truly inspiring. The fair was canceled in 2020, and he passed away before the next fair. But he sure had his full romp in 2019.
You Never Know If You’ll Be Back
You never know if you’ll be back. My dad embodied that lesson at the fair. Life is full of opportunities, but they’re not guaranteed to come around again. Whether attending a state fair, traveling to a new or favorite place, or simply spending time with loved ones, recognize the blessing of the moment.
My dad didn’t let age-related challenges stop him from enjoying the fair or anything else for that matter. He prepared, adapted, and maintained a positive attitude.
This approach isn’t just for state fairs—it’s a blueprint for life. No matter the obstacles, whether physical limitations, time constraints, or something else, there’s always a way to participate.
That day at the Iowa State Fair left a lasting impression. My dad’s determination to seize the day and enjoy life fully, despite challenges urges us all to live in the moment, make the most of every opportunity, and create memories that will sustain us long after the fairgrounds have emptied.
Links Du Jour
“Nothing Compares” the 2024 Iowa State Fair campaign and how it compares to the Minnesota State Fair – Bring Me The News
“A Rat’s Paradise” from Charlotte’s Web – the classic book and movie offer lovely state fair scenes.
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s State Fair – premiered in Des Moines, Iowa, in August 1945 – Turner Classic Movies
Two Minutes Du Jour 
2 responses to “A State Fair State of Mind”
[…] A State Fair State of Mind – State fairs are a Midwestern extravaganza, and Iowa’s and Minnesota’s are legendary. At […]
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[…] usually on Labor Day as a final hoorah before the first day of school, and the Iowa State Fair with my Dad, who never missed a chance to enjoy the fair’s unique […]
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