52nd Telethon

We’re thrilled to announce that this year, the 52nd Variety Telethon will air on KCCI on Tuesday, February 24, 2026! Tune in for a full day of inspiring stories showcasing the impact we’ve made on Iowa’s children over the past year, and join us in thanking the incredible companies and organizations who help make it all possible.

Since 1975, Iowans have joined together to contribute their time, talent, and hearts to the annual Variety Telethon. It is the foundation Variety - the Children's Charity of Iowa was built upon and is the highlight of each year. For 46 years, the Variety Telethon hosted a lineup of local and international celebrities who appeared on air along with thousands of corporate volunteers and donors who pledged their ongoing time and support to Iowa’s children.

Since then, the Variety Telethon has evolved into a shorter televised multimillion-dollar fundraiser that still highlights the many ways Variety helps Iowa’s children. Variety VIPs (Very Interested Persons) and corporate supporters will continue to raise funds that provide vital support to Iowa's children.