The Iowa State Fair is set to feature the 2026 Husband Calling Contest on Friday, Aug. 21, at 10 a.m. in Pioneer Hall. The event, a long‑standing fair favorite, invites participants to shout “Husband!” as loudly and clearly as possible, testing both volume and stamina.
Historical roots and a memorable 1993 winner
In 1993, KCCI interviewed several past champions, including Bonnie Swalwell Eilert of Newton. Eilert recalled that she entered the contest after growing frustrated with magazine salesmen who would call her home and demand to speak only to her husband. Determined to make the salespeople think twice, she practiced her call until she could project her voice across the fairgrounds.
That year’s contest highlighted the blend of humor and community spirit that has kept the tradition alive for more than three decades. Contestants of all ages gather each August, drawing crowds who enjoy the light‑hearted competition and the chance to cheer on their neighbors.
What to expect at this year’s contest
Organizers say the 2026 edition will follow the same format: participants line up at the designated stage in Pioneer Hall, receive a microphone, and have a brief moment to deliver their “Husband!” call. Judges will evaluate each entry based on volume, clarity, and overall enthusiasm. The winner will receive a modest prize and the honor of being the fair’s loudest voice for the day.
Fairgoers can watch the contest live on the KCCI 8 News broadcast at 4:30 p.m. each weekday during the fair, and the event will also be streamed for free through the Very Local app. The app, available for download on smartphones, provides live coverage of all major fair events, including the Husband Calling Contest.
Why the contest matters to Iowa families
Beyond the entertainment value, the Husband Calling Contest reflects Iowa’s appreciation for family‑centered traditions and community participation. It offers a platform where families can gather, cheer, and celebrate a uniquely Midwestern sense of humor. For many, the contest is a reminder of the simple joys that fairs have provided for generations, reinforcing bonds among neighbors and reminding participants of the value of a supportive, close‑knit community.
Local businesses often set up booths near Pioneer Hall, offering food, crafts, and souvenirs that celebrate the fair’s heritage. The contest also provides an opportunity for vendors to attract visitors who linger after the competition, boosting the fair’s overall economic impact.
How to join the fun
Anyone interested in entering the contest can register at the fair’s information desk on the day of the event. Registration is first‑come, first‑served, and participants are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot. Spectators are welcome to bring chairs and enjoy the lively atmosphere, with plenty of parking available around the fairgrounds.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Husband Calling Contest or hearing about it for the first time, the 2026 Iowa State Fair promises a memorable morning of laughter, community spirit, and a chance to hear the loudest “Husband!” in the state.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
