Discovering Iowa: Journey with Celia!

In this episode, we’ll delve into Iowa, exploring its must-visit destinations, vibrant festivals, and uncovering what makes Iowa truly unique. Join us as we introduce you to Celia and discover more about this fascinating state.

Meet Celia…

UNI_Students_Stories

“Hi i’m Celia Langemo from Cedar Rapids. I major in biochemistry here at UNI. I enjoy UNI because the size allows you to have a closer connection with people and professors without feeling too small. Also the science department is great with support and opportunities. I have one brother, a dog and my parents and have lived here most of my life. I love the kind people here, calmness and nature of Iowa. Some of my hobbies are cooking, hiking, and painting. I love having four seasons, being able to sled in the winter and cook an egg on the sidewalk in the summer. Iowa City, Des Moines, and Davenport are my favorite cities here to visit. My favorite restaurant is Taste of Ethiopia in Davenport.”
Celia Langemo, Undergraduate Student

Explore Iowa with Celia…

The 3 Must-Visit Places

The Capital: Des Moines is the capital and the most populous city in Iowa, United States. Des Moines is a major center of the US insurance industry and has a sizable financial-services and publishing business base.
Iowa City: Iowa City is the seat of government of Johnson Country, Iowa, United States. It is the home of the University of Iowa and country seat of Johnson Country, at the center of the Iowa City Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Davenport is a city in and the country seat of Scott County, Iowa, United States. Located along the Mississippi River on the eastern border of the state, it is the largest of the Quad Cities.

Festivals

Saurkraut

Saurkraut a traditional food for community of Cedar Rapids. It is shredded raw cabbage that’s been fermented. It is sour and in Iowa they like to put it on their hot dogs. In Cedar Rapids it is a festival called Surkraut, where the streets are packed with rides, carnival games, community bands, bingo, bathtub races, street dances, and good time family entertainment!

This festival includes:

Fireworks, Golf Tournament, 5K Run/Walk. Softball Tournament, Live Music, Parade, Carnival & Rides, Street Dance, Tractor Pull, Exhibit Hall and much, more!

Linn County Fair

The Linn County Fair is an annual event held in Central City, Iowa. It provides a platform for 4-Her’s, FFA members, and the youth of Linn County to showcase their accomplishments and talents in a safe family atmosphere. The fair offers a wide range of activities, entertainment, and learning opportunities for the diverse citizens of Linn County and guests.

State Fair – Des Moines

The internationally acclaimed Iowa State Fair is the single largest event in the state of Iowa and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country. Annually attracting more than a million people from all over the world, the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines is Iowa’s great celebration, a salute to the state’s best in agriculture, industry, entertainment and achievement. Learn More!

Hog Calling Contest

The Iowa State Fair in Des Moines is a popular event that features various contests and competitions. One of the unique contests held at the fair is the Hog Calling Contest, where participants showcase their ability to make pig sounds as loud as possible. It’s a fun and entertaining event that draws both adults and kids.

Pumpkin Patch

Fall in Iowa is synonymous with pumpkin picking! It’s a delightful experience to stroll through the fields, searching for the perfect pumpkin, whether you’re looking for one with a delicate paint job or a carved jack-o-lantern. And of course, a perfect pumpkin-picking trip probably includes some smaller pumpkins for pumpkin pie!

Bloomsbury Farm

Bloomsbury Farm is Iowas premier destination for farm fun! Bloomsbury Farm opens every Fall for our Annual Fall Festival. During Halloween, the Bloomsbury Farm becomes the most visited place, for pumpkin patch or haunted house.

Famous food…

“The Maid-Rite sandwich…it doesn’t look like much, but looks can be deceiving. In fact, the first time I was served a Maid-Rite, I was in Iowa and had been handed a bun full of loose ground beef. I was a little perplexed as it seemed like something I would make on a night I didn’t want to make dinner for my kids – so I’d try to pass off plain ground beef as dinner. (Come on, don’t tell me you haven’t done something similar!).
What I didn’t know is the Maid-Rite sandwich would soon be one of my favorite, easy dinners to make. The beef is tender and flavorful, made with simple ingredients I always have on hand. It’s as easy as serving ground beef for dinner, but 100 times better!”

Why so special?

Iowa stands out for its distinct characteristics, including its rich agricultural heritage centered around corn and pigs. It’s known for its tranquil atmosphere, minimal traffic congestion, and affordability. Iowa boasts delightful Maid-Rite sandwiches and is home to top-notch universities renowned for their exceptional medical and healthcare facilities, making it an excellent choice if you require medical treatment.

What I like most about the UNI is…

I enjoy UNI because the size allows you to have a closer connection with people and professors without feeling too small. Also the science department is great with support and opportunities. UNI has very affordable prices and give you a lot of scholarships opportunities. Everyone here is so nice!
Celia Langemo

If you want to learn more about Malaysia Discovering Malaysia: Journey with Weng Lam! (uni.edu)