Several residents have enjoyed success in competitions held at the Iowa State Fair.

Woodworkers were awarded top honors in the Wood Projects competition judged prior to the beginning of the 2023 Iowa State Fair.

Curt Wilson, Pella – Abstract – Non-Objective, 1st; Miscellaneous – Chip Carving, 3rd/HM
Denis Johansen, Knoxville – Miscellaneous – Functional, 1st; Relief Carving – Nature Scenes – 1st; Miscellaneous – Other, 2nd; Relief Carving – Human Subject, 2nd; Senior Citizen – age 65 or older, HM
Bob Kroese, Pella – Decoys – Ducks & Geese Floating, Decoys – Shore Birds, Wild Fowl – Song Birds, Wild Fowl – Miniature Birds, Wild Fowl – Birds (group or pair) – ALL 1st; Runner Up Best in Show
Dale Coleman, Pella – Model, 1st and 3rd

Top professional and amateur cake decorators vied for top honors in the Decorated Cakes competition, judged prior to the start of the 2023 Iowa State Fair. Brenda Klyn of Pella won the Sweepstakes Award and earned awards in five categories.

Creative artists competed in the Surface Embroidery division of the Fabric and Threads Competition, judged before the start of the 2023 Iowa State Fair.

Wilma Brouwer, Pella – Household Item, 1st; Picture – 1st; Embroidered Holiday Decoration – 1st; Sweepstakes – Surface Embroidery – 1st
Shirley Zylstra, Pella – Wool Embroidery, 1st in both categories
Patti Murphy, Indianola – Embroidered Crib Quilt, 1st
Sue Keller, Indianola – Accessory for Needlework, 1st
Kathy Betterton, Indianola – Crewel Embroidery, 1st
Jean Engle, Pella – Wool Embroidery (perimeter over 30 inches), 3rd

The Pella FFA placed 8th overall in the photography contest.