When Mother Earth News writer Lynn Byczynski dubbed Fairfield, Iowa, one of “12 Great Places You’ve Never Heard Of” in the August 2006 issue, she hit the nail right on the head. For a town of 10,000 smack dab in the middle of Jefferson County, we’ve got quite a lot going on!
…and a whole lot more!
In addition to its rich agricultural and industrial heritage, Fairfield has been home to Maharishi International University since 1974. The fully accredited university offers a traditional roster of courses, in addition to classes in yoga, meditation, preventive medicine, and sustainable agriculture. The Fairfield community has come to stand for a unique blend of homegrown Heartland values and progressive multicultural innovation.
Fairfield currently has more homes with solar energy or other green building features than any other town in Iowa. We’re also proud to say that Jefferson County has the most acres of organic cultivation in the state. This is due in large part to Maharishi Vedic City, just 2 miles north of Fairfield, with 2 acres of greenhouses powered by wind and solar energy.
Our town is also a bustling hive of creative and entrepreneurial activity. We’re often referred to as “Silicorn Valley,” because of the many thriving businesses in our town—many with global client bases.
And last but certainly not least, we know how to have a good time! Our monthly Fairfield First Fridays are a hit across the state and feature all types of art and entertainment including musicians, actors, writers, poets, filmmakers, and dancers. The event is held from 6-10 p.m. the first Friday of every month, come rain, snow, or shine. It’s free and open to the public, so come join us sometime. For that matter, come visit anytime!
There’s a little town that I know
Off Highway 1
It’s smaller than most places I’ve lived,
But bigger than some…
—From “At Home in the Middle of Nowhere,” by Fairfield-based folk band Sage
