Event Details
Join America's Patriots: March in the Historic America 250-IA Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair Parade
To honor those most responsible for America's semiquincentennial, this year's Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair Parade Aug. 17th, will celebrate America 250-IA by honoring the veteran-patriots of every U.S. conflict.
America was conceived in conflict. From the home-grown militia that started it all at Lexington and Concord in 1775, to today's most advanced military the world has ever known, no one is more responsible for America's very existence than the effort and sacrifice of the individual warrior-patriot—united with others just like them in a common cause. Those few earn the title 'veteran'.
Presented by the Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) and the Iowa National Guard, we are calling on all Iowa veterans, military organizations, and community supporters to join us on the Grand Concourse. Whether you are marching to represent a specific era of service, organization, playing in a band, or showing your community's support, we want you in the lineup or along the route as we celebrate 250 years of American resilience.
How to Join the Lineup: Applications are open now. You can download the entry form directly using the button below, or find it at dva.iowa.gov. (Tip: Look for the alert banner at the top of the homepage, or check the "Related Files" section).
At a Glance:
- Who: All Iowa veterans, military organizations, and community supporters.
- What: The Annual Veterans Day at the Iowa State Fair Parade, featuring a special America 250-IA tribute honoring patriot veterans of every U.S. war.
- When: The parade steps off on August 17th at 11:00 a.m. (Note: The deadline to submit your entry application is August 1st).
- Where: The traditional route along the Grand Concourse (south of the Grandstand) at the Iowa State Fairgrounds.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:
For interviews, coverage coordination, and additional information, please contact:
- Jackie Schmillen, Iowa National Guard | jackie.l.schmillen.civ@army.mil, (515) 971-6385
- Karl Lettow, Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs | iowafairvetsparade@iowa.gov, (641) 750-8052
Registration Details
Parade Entries: Fill out under "Related Files" below. Details and instructions for participants are on the form with more to follow.
Booth Applications: Fill out the
1301 Summit St.
Marshalltown, IA 50158
7105 NW 70th Ave
Camp Dodge Bldg 3465
Johnston, IA 50131-1824