All but a solitary Republican presidential candidate will be converging on Iowa within the next 10 days to partake in one of the state’s most renowned political traditions—the Iowa State Fair.

This event, one of the largest state fairs in the nation, provides a platform for aspirants to the presidency to directly engage with influential voters within the party’s inaugural caucus state. As they navigate fair-food staples and hold discussions with elected state officials, these candidates are put to the test, fielding questions from their supporters, numerous reporters, and even dissenters.

This year’s fair will play host to a roster of 18 presidential contenders, over 60 stick-bound food offerings, and, of course, a 600-pound bovine masterpiece sculpted entirely from butter.

Traditionally, presidential hopefuls participate in the fair with the aim of bolstering their bids for the nomination. This event presents a prime opportunity to interact firsthand with Iowans they aim to sway in favor of their cause come caucus time, just five months from now.

Commencing this Thursday and concluding on August 20, the fair is an attraction that draws over a million individuals to Des Moines annually. Its significance lies in its potential for candidates to secure support from voters prior to the initial Republican primary debate scheduled for August 23.

With the exception of former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, all prominent Republican presidential contenders are anticipated to attend. The frontrunner for the nomination, former President Donald Trump, has confirmed his presence on Saturday but has opted out of a conversation with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds.

The fair furnishes candidates with a distinct platform to display their adeptness in grassroots politics, attain national prominence, and showcase themselves as relatable individuals—although the reverse can occur if they make a misstep or become the subject of a viral meme due to their conduct during the event.

While successful politicking at the fair doesn’t serve as an absolute predictor of presidential triumph, a robust showing can breathe new life into a struggling campaign or thrust lesser-known political contenders into the national limelight. So long as Iowa retains its status as the first state to hold caucuses, the Iowa State Fair remains an imperative engagement for any aspiring presidential candidate.