What's Happening?
As part of Iowa's America250 celebration, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig is inviting school-aged students to participate in the 2026 Choose Iowa Calendar Contest. This initiative encourages students to create artwork that combines Iowa agriculture
with a patriotic theme, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States. The contest is part of the Choose Iowa program, which promotes Iowa-grown, made, and raised food, beverages, and agricultural products. Winning submissions will be featured in the 2026/2027 Choose Iowa calendar, distributed during the Iowa State Fair and online.
Why It's Important?
The Choose Iowa Calendar Contest serves as an educational tool, fostering creativity and awareness among young Iowans about the state's agricultural heritage and its role in the national economy. By integrating patriotic themes, the contest also instills a sense of national pride and historical awareness. This initiative supports the state's agricultural sector by highlighting its contributions to the U.S. economy and encouraging future generations to engage with and support local agriculture. The contest also provides a platform for young artists to gain recognition and showcase their talents.
What's Next?
The contest will culminate in an awards ceremony at the 2026 Iowa State Fair, where Secretary Naig will recognize the winning artists. This event will likely draw attention from local media and the community, celebrating the creativity and agricultural knowledge of Iowa's youth. The calendar will be distributed widely, serving as a year-long reminder of the state's agricultural achievements and the importance of supporting local products. The contest may inspire similar initiatives in other states, promoting agricultural education and community engagement nationwide.
