National Iowa Day
National Iowa Day celebrates the rich culture and heritage of the Hawkeye State. Known for its rolling plains, lush farmland, and friendly people, Iowa offers a unique slice of American life.
People celebrate National Iowa Day to honor the hardworking farmers who produce much of the nation’s food. Iowa’s fields yield corn, soybeans, and livestock, playing a key role in feeding the country.
The day highlights the state’s contributions to agriculture, education, and innovation. The state is also home to numerous historic landmarks and charming small towns that reflect its proud heritage.
In addition to its agricultural impact, Iowa boasts strong educational institutions and a thriving arts scene. Many towns host vibrant festivals showcasing local music, art, and cuisine.
National Iowa Day reminds everyone of the state’s significant role in shaping American culture and economy.
How to Celebrate National Iowa Day
Discover Iowa’s Cuisine
Dive into Iowa’s delicious food scene! Cook up some classic dishes like sweet corn, pork tenderloins, or Maid-Rites.
Visit local farmers’ markets to find fresh ingredients straight from the fields. Baking a pie with Iowa-grown apples is another tasty way to celebrate.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Get out and enjoy Iowa’s natural beauty. Go for a hike in one of the state parks or take a leisurely bike ride along scenic trails.
Birdwatching in the prairies can be quite an adventure. Picnicking by a picturesque lake makes for a delightful day.
Celebrate Iowa’s Heritage
Visit a local museum or historic site to learn about Iowa’s rich history and uncover fascinating stories. Reading books by Iowa authors or watching movies set in the state can be equally enlightening.
Engaging in these activities provides a deeper appreciation for the state’s past.
Support Local Artists
Show some love to Iowa’s vibrant arts scene. Attend a local art fair or gallery exhibition to see what local artists are creating.
Listen to music by Iowa musicians or watch a performance at a community theater. Buying handmade crafts from local artisans supports the creative community.
Connect with the Community
Participate in community events to engage with fellow Iowans. Join a local festival or fair to experience the lively atmosphere.
Volunteer at a community garden or charity event to spread joy and goodwill. Building connections with neighbors makes the celebration even more special.
National Iowa Day Timeline
1838
Iowa Territory Established
The U.S. Congress created the Territory of Iowa on June 12, 1838, giving the region its own government and formal identity separate from Wisconsin Territory.[1]
1846
Iowa Admitted as the 29th State
On December 28, 1846, President James K. Polk signed the act admitting Iowa to the Union as the 29th state, marking its transition from frontier territory to statehood.[2]
1838–1859
“Hawkeye State” Nickname Takes Hold
Territorial officials approved “Hawkeye” as a nickname in 1838, and by 1859 it was in recorded use, popularized by editor James G. Edwards through his “Hawk-Eye and Iowa Patriot” newspaper.[3]
1846–1857
Old Capitol Serves as Iowa’s First Statehouse
The Old Capitol building in Iowa City served as the state’s first capitol from statehood until 1857, later becoming the centerpiece of the University of Iowa and a National Historic Landmark.[4]
Late 19th Century
Prairie Transformed into Farmland
By the late 1800s, most of Iowa’s tallgrass prairie had been converted into farms, establishing a mixed grain-and-livestock system that laid the foundation for its modern corn and hog dominance.[5]
1930
Grant Wood Paints “American Gothic”
Iowa artist Grant Wood completed “American Gothic” in 1930, using a real Carpenter Gothic house in Eldon, Iowa, which became an enduring symbol of Midwestern rural life and a cultural icon for the state.[6]
1973
RAGBRAI Launches a Rolling Iowa Tradition
Des Moines Register writers John Karras and Donald Kaul led the first Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI), creating what would become the world’s largest multi-day recreational bike tour and a showcase of Iowa’s towns and landscapes.[7]
History of National Iowa Day
National Iowa Day began in 2017 with the purpose of celebrating various aspects of American culture, started this observance.
The organizers of this day aimed to recognize each state’s unique contributions and heritage. Iowa, known for its rich history and significant role in agriculture, was chosen for a dedicated day.
The day honors Iowa’s achievements in various fields, including education and innovation. Communities participate with enthusiasm, showcasing local traditions and pride. The celebration quickly gained popularity. Iowans and people across the country embraced the new tradition.
Every year, National Iowa Day encourages reflection on the state’s impact. The observance brings attention to Iowa’s agricultural prowess, educational institutions, and cultural heritage. Events and activities highlight the state’s unique charm and community spirit.
The growing participation shows how much people appreciate Iowa’s role in American life. The initiative has fostered a sense of unity and pride among Iowans. It serves as a reminder of the state’s contributions to the nation.
Celebrating National Iowa Day has become a cherished tradition. It’s a day for everyone to acknowledge and enjoy the distinctive qualities of the Hawkeye State.
The celebration continues to grow, reaching more people each year. National Iowa Day highlights the best of Iowa, inviting everyone to join in the appreciation.
Facts About Iowa’s Outsized Impact
Iowa is often associated with wide fields and quiet towns, but its influence reaches far beyond agriculture. From shaping public higher education and launching space science discoveries to advancing early computer technology and global literature, the state has played a surprisingly central role in American innovation and culture. These facts highlight how Iowa’s ideas, institutions, and people have helped shape national—and even global—history.
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Land-Grant Pioneer
Iowa was the first state to accept the Morrill Act of 1862, and Iowa State University in Ames is widely recognized as the nation’s first land‑grant college, helping pioneer the model of publicly funded higher education focused on agriculture, engineering, and practical sciences.
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Birthplace of U.S. Space Science
University of Iowa physicist James A. Van Allen designed the cosmic‑ray experiment on Explorer 1, the first successful U.S. satellite launched in 1958; data from that experiment led to the discovery of the Van Allen radiation belts encircling Earth and helped establish space physics as a new scientific field.
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Early Electronic Computer Innovation
At what was then Iowa State College, physicist John Vincent Atanasoff and graduate student Clifford Berry built the Atanasoff–Berry Computer (ABC) in the late 1930s and early 1940s, an experimental machine that introduced key ideas like binary arithmetic and electronic computation of linear equations and was later recognized in a 1973 federal court ruling as important prior art in computer history.
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Global Literary Powerhouse
The Iowa Writers’ Workshop at the University of Iowa, founded in 1936, is often cited as the first creative‑writing degree program in the United States and has produced dozens of Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winners, giving Iowa an outsized influence on modern American literature.
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UNESCO City of Literature
In 2008, Iowa City became one of the first cities in the world named a UNESCO City of Literature, recognized for its concentration of literary institutions, including the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, the International Writing Program, independent bookstores, and year‑round festivals and readings.
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Corn Belt Powerhouse
Iowa consistently ranks as the top corn‑producing state in the United States, typically accounting for roughly 16–18% of national corn output in recent years, with most of that corn used for livestock feed and ethanol, tying Iowa’s farms directly into global food and fuel supply chains.
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Leading Producer of Pork and Eggs
Iowa holds the nation’s largest inventory of hogs—about one‑third of the U.S. total in recent years—and is also a leading table‑egg producer, meaning meat and eggs originating from Iowa farms regularly reach consumers far beyond the Midwest through national distribution and export markets.
National Iowa Day FAQs
Why is Iowa called the “Hawkeye State”?
The nickname “Hawkeye State” honors Chief Black Hawk, a leader of the Sauk tribe.
After the Black Hawk War in 1832, settlers adopted the name to pay tribute to his legacy. This moniker reflects Iowa’s deep Native American roots.
What unique festivals are celebrated in Iowa?
Iowa hosts the National Hobo Convention in Britt every August. Since 1900, hobos from across the nation have gathered to share stories and celebrate their lifestyle.
The event includes a parade, a hobo king and queen coronation, and mulligan stew.
Is it true that Iowa has a town named after a fruit?
Yes, Strawberry Point in Iowa is famous for its giant strawberry sculpture. Standing 15 feet tall, it’s a quirky landmark celebrating the town’s history of strawberry farming.
How did the “butter cow” tradition at the Iowa State Fair begin?
Since 1911, the Iowa State Fair has featured a life-sized cow sculpted entirely from butter.
This tradition started to showcase Iowa’s dairy industry and has become a beloved attraction, drawing thousands of visitors annually.
What is the significance of the “Field of Dreams” in Iowa?
The “Field of Dreams” movie site in Dyersville attracts baseball fans worldwide.
Visitors can tour the field, play catch, and relive scenes from the iconic 1989 film. The site hosts events, including MLB games, celebrating baseball’s nostalgic charm.
Are there any unique culinary traditions in Iowa?
Iowa is known for its “loose meat” sandwiches, particularly the Maid-Rite.
Originating in the 1920s, this sandwich features seasoned ground beef served on a bun without a sauce. It’s a regional favorite, with Maid-Rite restaurants found throughout the state.
What is the story behind Iowa’s “American Gothic” house?
The house in Grant Wood’s famous painting “American Gothic” is located in Eldon, Iowa.
Built in the 1880s, the Carpenter Gothic-style home inspired Wood’s 1930 artwork. Today, it’s a museum where visitors can pose in costumes resembling the painting’s characters.
How does Iowa celebrate its Dutch heritage?
Pella, Iowa, hosts the annual Tulip Time Festival each May.
Celebrating Dutch culture, the event features parades, traditional costumes, wooden shoe dancing, and thousands of blooming tulips, reflecting the town’s rich heritage.
What is the “Iowa Nice” phenomenon?
“Iowa Nice” refers to the state’s reputation for friendly and courteous behavior.
This cultural trait emphasizes politeness, helpfulness, and a strong sense of community, making visitors feel welcomed and valued.
Is there a unique sport associated with Iowa?
Yes, Iowa is known for “RAGBRAI” (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa).
Since 1973, this week-long event has attracted thousands of cyclists who traverse the state, experiencing its diverse landscapes and small-town hospitality.
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