Mississippi River Country e-Newsletter

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August 2009

Catch Classic Fairs, Festivals and Celebrations in Mississippi River Country
The internationally-acclaimed Iowa State Fair annually attracts more than a million fun-lovers from around the world. In 2005, Midwest Living magazine named the event one of the "Top 30 Things Every Midwesterner Should Experience." Considered America's classic state fair, Iowa's ag-extravaganza is also featured in the New York Times best-selling travel book, 1000 Places to See Before You Die. A proud tradition since 1854, the Fair inspired the internationally-acclaimed novel, State Fair, three motion pictures, plus Rodgers and Hammerstein's Broadway musical. Special features include one of the world's largest livestock shows, the country's largest state fair foods department (approx. 900 classes), the state's largest arts show, hundreds of competitive events and wacky contests, plus more than 600 exhibitors and concessionaires selling tasty treats. It's all happening August 13–23 in Des Moines.

Click here for a chance to win an Iowa State Fair Fun Pack!

Minnesota Need a bit more classic State Fair fun? Head to the huge Minnesota State Fair, August 27–September 7, in St. Paul.	Tennessee September 19 is the date of the Fayette County Cotton Festival in Somerville, which offers a 5k run/walk, live music, a car show and a variety of children's events.
Mississippi Experience an evening of great live jazz at the Mississippi Jazz & Heritage Festival, September 5, in Greenville.	Kentucky Civil War Days in Columbus, October 9–11, includes battle reenactments, living history, encampments and a "Ghost Walk."
Illinois Head to Galena for Fall Music on Main, September 5, for outdoor dancing at the Green Street Plaza in this historic community.	Arkansas The Dogpatch Biker Bash in Harrison, September 4–6, features a crawdad eating contest, live bands, children's area and carnival.
Wisconsin Oktoberfest in La Crosse, September 25–October 3, is a huge festival of food, music, fun and German culture.	Louisiana The Bridge City Gumbo Festival takes place in Bridge City, October 9–11, offering the exciting sights, sounds and flavors of this unique community.
Missouri Head to Saint Joseph for the Trails West Festival, an outdoor arts festival with outstanding fine art, folk art and live music, August 21–23.

Plan your own trip to Mississippi River Country!
You’ll find an incredible variety of attractions, events and activities in America’s ten Mississippi River States. From the Mississippi River headwaters to the Gulf of Mexico, experience a rich and diverse history, culture and landscape. Year-round, there’s something for every traveler. Start planning your own Mississippi River Country vacation.

Mississippi River Country is a multi-state cooperative marketing program guided by the state tourism offices of the ten states located along the Mississippi River.

The MRPC Endowment Fund - Learn more about how you can help sustain efforts to preserve, promote and enhance the Great River Road and the Mississippi River Corridor for generations to come. Download the Endowment brochure.