America’s Harvest Festival Celebrates Iowa Agriculture Amid Tough Season
The harvest festival, part of events marking America’s 250th birthday, begins Saturday with live music, food, and appearances by state leaders, as farmers face high diesel costs and delayed harvests.
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The harvest festival, part of America's 250th birthday celebrations, will showcase Iowa's agricultural heritage on Saturday, featuring live music, state leaders' appearances, and culinary delights.
By KCCI
Published: Oct. 24, 2026
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DES MOINES, Iowa (KCRG) - A vibrant scene of pumpkins, hay bales, and hardworking teams unfolded on the Iowa Capitol Grounds on Friday evening as preparations unfolded for the America’s Harvest Festival, a celebration of Iowa’s agricultural heritage.
“Iowa feeds 10% of the United States with just 1% of the population. So, agriculture is certainly an integral part of who we Iowans are,” stated Iowa Lieutenant Governor Chris Cournoyer.
Organized through the governor’s office, the free festival is one of many events commemorating America’s 250th birthday. It promises live music, state leader appearances, and a plethora of culinary delights.
While the festivities officially kick off on Saturday, Cournoyer emphasized the festival’s significance in recognizing Iowa farmers' strength and resilience, even amidst a challenging harvest season.
“We are a global leader in agriculture, and here we are hosting the harvest festival right in the middle of harvest. What a testament to our farmers' perseverance,” Cournoyer expressed.
This year, farmers have grappled with historic diesel price highs and unseasonably wet weather, causing delays in harvest time. Some farmers, like Mike Brelsford in Dallas County, are significantly behind schedule.
“We’re just a third of the way, probably through our harvest. So, we have a long way to go yet,” Brelsford shared.
On Monday, the Trump administration announced an $8 billion aid program for farmers, although details regarding its rollout remain pending.
Cournoyer, nevertheless, expressed confidence in Iowa farmers' ability to overcome these obstacles.
“We have weathered many storms, whether natural disasters, late rains in August and September that delay the harvest, or global factors beyond our control. But we are definitely a resilient people,” he assured.
The Harvest Festival commences at 1 p.m. on Saturday at the Iowa Capitol Grounds, offering a diverse array of activities, as detailed on their official website.