Does your state have its very own cryptid? Mothman, the Flatwoods Monster, and the Jersey Devil are just a few of the strange creatures who have reportedly walked the streets or roamed the forests of America at some point – and Iowa has its own in the Van Meter Visitor. Way back in 1903, the people of the sleepy town of Van Meter reported something large and mysterious over their town. Today, over a hundred years later, this strange creature still captivates the imagination of cryptozoology buffs across the Hawkeye State – and you can learn more at the Van Meter Visitor Festival, the biggest paranormal event in Iowa, held every September where it all began.

The year was 1903 in the quiet town of Van Meter, and the citizens were going about their lives - until something strange happened.
Olson Photography Co./Wikipedia
People reported a massive, winged creature spotted atop the buildings. Too large to be a bird, almost nine feet tall, and reportedly shining a beam of light from its horn, it was gone as mysteriously as it came.
Van Meter Visitor Festival/Facebook
But it lives on today...as the Van Meter Visitor, the town's very own cryptid and the star of an annual paranormal festival.
Van Meter Visitor Festival/Facebook
As you tour the festival, you'll find local craftsmen selling their creations celebrating the town's personal monster.
Van Meter Visitor Festival/Facebook

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It's not the only monster celebrated here, either - cryptozoology fans will find merch and books about famous mysteries like the Hodag, Mothman, and the Jersey Devil.
Van Meter Visitor Festival/Facebook
You might even find some original games themed around cryptozoology - perfect for introducing these creatures to the next generation.
Van Meter Visitor Festival/Facebook
The festival hosts some of the world's most famous cryptid-hunters, including the iconic Kevin Lee Nelson - who will be bringing a new year's worth of hunts to discuss.
Van Meter Visitor Festival/Facebook
You can expect to learn a lot about the strange creatures that may be hiding near Van Meter - and maybe near your home town. So come and join the festival, if you're brave enough.
Van Meter Visitor Festival/Facebook

Have you been to the Van Meter Visitor Festival? Does your town or state have its very own monster? Let us know in the comments section. If you’re interested in attending this paranormal event in Iowa on September 24th, 2022, make sure to visit their Facebook page for more details. If you’re looking for another eerie Iowa adventure, check out this haunted prison.

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505 Grant St, Van Meter, IA 50261, USA