The Iowa State Fair has a new queen! Riah Schrage of Grundy County realized a lifelong dream at the 2025 Iowa State Fair, winning the coveted title of Iowa State Fair Queen. The coronation, held on Saturday, August 9th, drew a massive crowd, described by fair CEO Jeremy Parsons as "bigger and better than ever."
Schrage, a Grundy Center native, has been attending the Iowa State Fair since she was a child and was captivated by the fair queen coronation each year. "I always remember seeing the fair queen and being like 'Oh, maybe one day that can be me,'" she said. That dream became a reality as her name was announced, sparking cheers from the audience and fellow county fair queens.
The newly crowned queen received a $3,000 scholarship from the Iowa State Fair, along with a trophy, crown, sash, and a stunning Tiffany crown necklace. Dawghouse Concessions added a $1,000 scholarship, an anonymous donor gifted a $600 Visa gift card, and the Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation presented an Iowa State Fair brick.
Schrage wasn't the only one experiencing strong emotions. Many of the 102 county fair queens on stage were teary-eyed, having formed close bonds during the week leading up to the coronation. They expressed plans to stay in touch and maintain their friendships.
Meanwhile, Morgan Leichty represented Washington County in the competition, preparing diligently with pageant coaches to showcase her public speaking skills and represent her county to the best of her ability. She sought advice from current Iowa State Fair Queen Ellie Blackford and past queens, aiming to be the first from Washington County to win the state title.
The judging criteria for the Iowa State Fair Queen competition includes personality, attitude, leadership, citizenship, community contribution, overall appearance, charm, and poise. The coronation took place on the Bill Riley stage at 7 p.m. Congratulations to Riah Schrage and all the participants!