DES MOINES, Iowa — The Iowa State Fair , renowned as the state's largest event, significantly bolstered Iowa's economy with an impressive $629.2 million impact in 2024, according to a study by Johnson Consulting. Jeremy Parsons, CEO and manager of the Iowa State Fair, shared these findings on November 19 at the Elwell Family Food Center. The study highlighted that the fair and its year-round activities generated 81,400 hotel room nights, sustained 4,880 jobs, and created $211.9 million in wages, along with a $17 million impact on state finances. The eleven-day event's economic contribution is on par with major national events like the Kentucky Derby and the Formula 1 Grand Prix. A nationwide study by the International Association of Fairs and Expositions also noted th

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