Council Bluffs, IA — The Friends of Westfair Committee is proud to announce a $100,000 gift from the Community Foundation for Western Iowa, supporting the Westfair Capital Campaign and its mission to modernize and improve the 80-acre fairgrounds and amphitheater. The foundation, a champion of the campaign since its inception, has played a vital role in helping guide and shape the future of Westfair.
“We are incredibly honored to support this transformational project,” said Donna Dostal, President and CEO of the Community Foundation for Western Iowa.

“Westfair has such a rich impact on our region, and this vision paints a picture of Westfair as a vibrant tourism destination and economic driver for years to come. It’s especially meaningful to support a project that touches all of Southwest Iowa and the surrounding communities the Foundation is proud to serve.” The Community Foundation’s gift will be publicly celebrated during the Spirit of Westfair Dinner on Saturday, July 12, 2025—a special evening honoring Westfair’s past, present, and exciting future.

Westfair modernization (conceptual image)

At the heart of Westfair’s Phase 1 modernization is a 65,000-square-foot state-of-the-art education and exposition facility that will:
● Consolidate livestock events (market beef, breeding beef, dairy, swine, goats, sheep) under one roof;
● Host new events such as rodeos, equestrian competitions, small conferences, and car shows;
● Include air-conditioned gathering areas, ADA-compliant upgrades, and a mother’s room/family restrooms;
● Add classroom and conference space for 4-H, FFA, and year-round youth and community programming

To ensure the long-term sustainability of the project, Westfair has also established an endowment fund at the Community Foundation for Western Iowa. This fund ensures that Westfair’s impact continues for generations to come. “The Community Foundation has been one of our strongest partners,” said Connie Casson, Chair of the Friends of Westfair Committee. “Their support and belief in our vision has meant the world to us. This gift—and the endowment—underscore their commitment to building a stronger, more vibrant region.”

The Westfair Capital Campaign is working toward a $12 million goal, with over $4 million already committed from foundations, local families, and regional businesses. For more information on the project or how to support, visit www.westfair.org or contact the Friends of Westfair Committee at friends@westfair.org or (402) 981-5973.

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Spirit of Westfair Dinner – July 12, 2025
Come celebrate with the Westfair community at an evening filled with food, music, and appreciation for those supporting the campaign.
● 5:00 PM – Social Hour
● 6:00 PM – Queen Candidate Introductions
● 6:30 PM – Dinner and Dessert Auction
● 8:30 PM – Live Music by XOLEX (21+ only)
● Location – Commercial Building at Westfair Grounds
Enjoy a delicious dinner, lively dessert auction, introduction of the 2025 Westfair queen candidates, and exciting announcements about Westfair 2025 and the capital campaign.
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Tickets: $50 per person / Tables of 10 available RSVP via:

● Online: https://forms.gle/viSVmoHyxnbrG1jk9

● Venmo: @westfair-iowa

● Mail: P.O. Box 698, Council Bluffs, IA 51502