Thank you for your interest in joining the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) and Ride
On! Des Moines for the 2026 Iowa State Fair Parade!
This year, we are partnering to promote sustainable transportation and celebrate the expanded bike parking at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. DNA participates in the Fair every year representing the downtown community.
The campaign — Bike2 Fair. Park4Free — promotes a healthy, no-cost way to travel to the Fair and safely lock up your bike right on the fairgrounds.
Our parade entry will feature a custom banner, free up cycled t-shirts from thrift shops featuring the campaign logo, and YOU on your bike demonstrating the joy of riding. Each parade participant will receive a free general admission ticket for use during the run of the fair, August 13-23. Cute kids on bikes are encouraged.
The 1.5 mile parade route rides downhill from the State Capitol to Grand Avenue west to 13th Street. We'll be joined by marching bands, dance groups, tractors and lots of beauty queens. Thousands line the parade route every year. The parade is also broadcast on Iowa PBS — all your friends and family across the state will see you.
A limited number of walkers will be needed to hold the banners in the parade. We are primarily looking for cyclists.
Please provide your contact information so we can get you the details when they are available.
Event Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Start Time: 6:15 p.m.
Muster up time: TBD
Location: East Grand Avenue at Finkbine Drive to Grand Ave & 13th Street
