The Iowa State Fair — one of our state's oldest and biggest traditions — is back for another fun-filled 11-day adventure on the east side of Des Moines.

This year’s theme is "Fair Sweet Fair" and it runs from Thursday, Aug. 7, through Sunday, Aug. 17. Of course, the annual parade kicks things off on Aug. 6 in downtown Des Moines.

The fairgrounds, which are located at East 30th Street and East University Avenue, are open from 8 a.m. to midnight from Aug. 7 to Aug. 16. On the final day, which is Aug. 17, grounds are open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Buildings are open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the fair.

Day 1: Thursday, Aug. 7

Grandstand : Forrest Frank with special guest Lecrae, 8 p.m.; tickets

Free stage headliners : Ty Myers at the Susan Knapp Amphitheater, 8 p.m.; The Holy Rocka Roll

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