Fans who missed out on tickets to the Iowa Corn 350 still have a chance to experience NASCAR up close this week. NASCAR’s Iowa Fan Fest takes over Cowles Commons in downtown Des Moines on July 31, bringing racing-themed entertainment, local food, and appearances from some of the sport’s biggest names. The free event runs from 4 to 7:30 p.m., giving fans an opportunity to celebrate the weekend ahead of the sold-out Cup Series race at Iowa Speedway.
Key Highlights
NASCAR Iowa Fan Fest takes place July 31 at Cowles Commons in downtown Des Moines.
Free entry with activities, live entertainment, and driver appearances scheduled.
First 500 guests receive complimentary Deardorff Sweet Corn as part of the event.
Iowa Corn 350 at Iowa Speedway remains sold out ahead of Sunday’s race.
Fan Fest provides rare public access to drivers before the high-stakes race weekend begins.
Free Event Brings NASCAR to the Heart of Des Moines
With Sunday’s Iowa Corn 350 completely sold out, NASCAR is giving fans a different way to enjoy race week. The Iowa Fan Fest offers a free, family-friendly experience in the heart of Des Moines, less than an hour from Iowa Speedway. The event promises appearances from drivers competing in this weekend’s Cup Series action, autograph opportunities, racing-themed displays, and local food vendors. The first 500 attendees will be treated to free Deardorff Sweet Corn, adding a taste of Iowa tradition to the festivities.
Cowles Commons, located at 221 Walnut Street, will be transformed into a NASCAR fan zone for one evening only. Organizers expect a large turnout as racing enthusiasts, both ticket holders and those unable to secure race day passes, gather to celebrate Iowa’s first-ever NASCAR Cup Series race weekend. Fan Fest is designed to bring the sport directly to the community, creating an open and relaxed atmosphere away from the speedway.
A Weekend of Racing and Local Flavor
The Iowa Corn 350 has been one of the most anticipated additions to the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series schedule, with tickets selling out months in advance. Iowa Speedway, known as “The Fastest Short Track on the Planet,” will host its inaugural Cup Series race Sunday, marking a milestone for Midwest motorsports fans. The track’s reputation for tight racing and high-speed action has fueled excitement since the event was announced.
For those unable to attend the race, Fan Fest provides an alternative way to join the celebration. The event blends motorsports with local culture, featuring regional food, music, and interactive displays for fans of all ages. NASCAR representatives have emphasized that Fan Fest is about accessibility, ensuring that even without a ticket, fans can connect with the drivers and atmosphere of a Cup Series weekend.
Building Anticipation for the Iowa Corn 350
Thursday’s Fan Fest sets the tone for a packed weekend in Iowa, with practice and qualifying sessions leading into the main event on Sunday. Many of the sport’s top drivers are expected to make brief appearances in downtown Des Moines to greet fans and share their thoughts ahead of the first Cup race at the 0.875-mile track. While the final lineup of drivers attending has not been confirmed, past Fan Fest events have traditionally featured autograph sessions and Q&A opportunities.
The sell-out crowd at Iowa Speedway will make history as NASCAR brings its premier series to a venue long loved by Xfinity and Truck Series fans. The addition of the Iowa Corn 350 to the schedule has boosted local tourism, filling hotels and restaurants across the region. Fan Fest helps extend that reach, giving even casual fans a way to be part of the festivities and excitement.
News in Brief: NASCAR 2025 Iowa Fan Fest
NASCAR’s Iowa Fan Fest will be held July 31 from 4 to 7:30 p.m. at Cowles Commons in downtown Des Moines, providing free entertainment, driver appearances, and local food offerings ahead of Sunday’s sold-out Iowa Corn 350 at Iowa Speedway. The first 500 guests will receive complimentary Deardorff Sweet Corn. The Iowa Corn 350 marks the first NASCAR Cup Series race at the track, drawing fans from across the Midwest for a historic weekend.
ALSO READ: How to Watch the 2025 Iowa Corn 350 Weekend: Schedule, Start Times, and TV Info
