Free Family Friendly Fun at the 2026 Barnyard Bash

The Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce invites families from across Southeast Iowa to celebrate our rich agricultural heritage at the 2026 Barnyard Bash, presented by Jefferson County Farm Bureau and Agri-Industrial Plastics Company.

This free community event will be held on Friday, September 11, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the historic Maasdam Barns and promises an evening filled with hands-on activities, agricultural education, delicious food, and family fun.

"The Barnyard Bash is one of those events where generations come together," said Ryan Swanson, event co-chair. "Kids get the chance to experience agriculture in a hands-on way, parents enjoy watching them learn and explore, and everyone leaves with a greater appreciation for the important role agriculture plays in our community."

Beginning at 4:00 p.m., area businesses and organizations will offer interactive agricultural displays and activities designed to educate and entertain visitors of all ages. Families can enjoy:

• Tractor-cade
• Antique tractor displays
• Barrel train rides
• Two bounce houses
• Giant bubble-making at the Chamber booth
• Farm animals to pet and learn about
• Rope making demonstrations
• Corn shelling
• Hay putting demonstrations
• And many more interactive exhibits throughout the evening.

Food will be available for purchase throughout the event. The Jefferson County Cattlemen's Association will once again be grilling delicious sandwiches, and the ever-popular lemonade shake-ups will return, prepared by local Girl Scouts. Proceeds from lemonade sales will support Girl Scout troop activities. Supplies for the lemonade stand are generously sponsored by TDT CPAs & Advisors and Liberty Communications.

In addition to great food, don't miss two popular Barnyard Bash traditions!

Stop by the Chamber booth to bid in the Silent Pie Auction, featuring homemade pies baked by talented local community members. These fresh, delicious pies are always a crowd favorite, and bidding can get pretty competitive! Every dollar raised supports the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce's mission to strengthen local businesses and enhance our community.

Need something cool to beat the September heat? Snow cones will also be available for purchase, with all proceeds benefiting the preservation and ongoing care of the historic Maasdam Barns.

New This Year!

To help make the event even more affordable for families, every child attending will receive a FREE pulled pork sandwich, while supplies last.

"We know feeding a family at community events can add up," said Ryan Holthus, event co-chair. "Thanks to the generosity of JBS in Ottumwa, we're able to provide free pulled pork sandwiches for kids so families can focus on spending time together and making memories."

Adults may also enjoy a pulled pork sandwich with a free-will donation. All proceeds from adult sandwich donations will benefit the Fairfield FFA, supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Visitors are encouraged to come hungry, bring the kids, and spend the evening exploring one of Jefferson County's most treasured landmarks while enjoying agriculture-themed fun until 7:00 p.m.

Parking will be available only at the Jefferson County Health Center parking lot. Complimentary shuttle buses will transport guests to and from the Maasdam Barns throughout the event. To help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, all attendees are asked to park at the hospital and ride the shuttle.

The Barnyard Bash remains FREE thanks to the generous support of local businesses and organizations.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Presenting Sponsors

• Jefferson County Farm Bureau
• Agri-Industrial Plastics Company

Blue Ribbon Sponsors

• Community 1st Credit Union
• Jefferson County Health Center
• JBS Ottumwa
• Wolf Creek Farm

Red Ribbon Sponsors

• Cambridge Investment Research
• Roth & Norton Family Dentistry
• Live Wire Electric & Straight Up Doors

White Ribbon Sponsor

• French-Reneker Associates

Bounce House Sponsors

• Ryan Holthus – Shelter Insurance
• Heartland Counseling Services

The Chamber is still accepting sponsors and booth participants. Additional sponsors will be recognized in future event promotions.

Businesses interested in showcasing their organization or supporting this popular community event are encouraged to contact Mendy McAdams at Chamber@FairfieldIowa.com to reserve their sponsorship or booth space before they're gone.