wpc1

There are lots of reasons for hosting the next World Percheron Congress in Iowa: the state's rich
history with the Percheron breed; the centralized location for breed enthusiasts from all points of
North America; and, of course, that famous Midwestern hospitality is a factor. But perhaps the best
(and certainly the biggest) reason is the show facility and its accompanying atmosphere.

Touted as "America's classic state fair" the Iowa State Fair has been held in Des Moines since
1886. Some feathers in the Fair's cap include:

** It is one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country, attracting
1 million visitors from around the world each year

** It was named one of the "Top 30 Things Every Midwesterner Should Experience" by Midwest
Living magazine

** It was named the #2 choice for summer fun in America by USA Weekend

** It was featured in the New York Times best-selling travel book, "1000 Places to See Before You
Die"

** It inspired the internationally-acclaimed novel, "State Fair," three motion pictures, plus Rodgers &
Hammerstein's Broadway musical

** It features one of the largest livestock shows in the world

The fairgrounds itself consists of approximately 410 acres, 160 of which encompass a beautiful,
wooded campground. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, many of the buildings on
the grounds pre-date World War I! However, this present day tribute to the past is coupled with an
appreciation for the state-of-the-art. Case in point, the "Agriculture Exhibition Center," a $10.5
million pavilion is currently under construction. It will be attached to the original Horse Barn, built in
1907, via an enclosed warm-up area. Scheduled for completion just prior to the 2010 Iowa State Fair
in August, much of the World Percheron Congress will take place in this exciting, world-class
facility.

For more information about the Iowa State Fair and its celebrated historic grounds, visit:
http://www.iowastatefair.com/