UPDATE: The Dubuque County Fair wrapped up today, July 15, 2023, marking the end of its 72nd annual celebration in Dubuque, Iowa. As fairgoers enjoyed the final events, including the popular demolition derby, dedicated volunteers like Adam Gaul were hard at work behind the scenes, cleaning and ensuring a smooth experience for attendees.
Gaul, a 17-year-old from Farley, Iowa, has dedicated years to the fair, first participating in 4-H. He remarked on the fair’s lasting appeal, stating, “It’s fun – it’s a great social gathering. You can eat ice cream, show your animal and talk to people you haven’t seen in a year.” His words resonate deeply as families and friends come together to celebrate community and tradition.
One of the highlights of the final day included Hannah Gobeli, a 13-year-old from Monticello, Iowa, who showcased her hard work with her heifer, named Alexa. Despite some challenges in getting Alexa to cooperate, Hannah expressed her excitement and nerves leading up to the open class beef show. “It’s stressful at times, but it’s good for my work ethic,” she said, reflecting on how showing animals has built her confidence.
Hannah’s mother, Kris Gobeli, emphasized the commitment involved in preparing Alexa for the fair. “She has been working hard since November, including weekly washes in winter and daily rinsing in an air-conditioned cooler since May,” Kris shared. The dedication shown by young participants illustrates the hard work that goes into these events, fostering important life skills and resilience.
Inside the Creative Arts building, Mike Lambert, a fair board member, showcased an array of award-winning youth and adult creations. “Everything that the adults compete in, whether it be canning, cooking, sewing, or baking, the youth can do that too,” said Lambert. His commitment to the fair spans over 20 years, and he highlighted the impressive creativity on display, from quilts to photography.
Lambert noted that while some projects may seem traditional, they reflect a vibrant local culture. “We’re trying to keep sewing and creativity alive,” he stated, pointing out the impressive quilts and food preservation efforts that adorned the tables. The fair serves not just as entertainment but as a platform for local talent to shine.
As the fair concludes, many attendees are already looking forward to the next event, eager to reconnect with friends and showcase their hard work once again. The sense of community fostered during these days at the Dubuque County Fair will linger long after the final gates close.
With the fair now behind them, participants and visitors alike are left with cherished memories and a renewed spirit of collaboration and creativity, proving that despite challenges, events like these are essential to community life in Iowa.
