August is fair season around the United States, and if you’ve been looking for some good old-fashioned fun, a fair is one of the best ways to get it during the summer.
The very popular Illinois State Fair starts this week, and here’s everything you need to know.
General Information
- Date: August 10-20
- 801 E. Sangamon Ave., State Fairgrounds Springfield, Illinois 62794
- Open 7 AM until Midnight
Admission and Parking Costs:
- Children (0-12) – free
- Adults (13-59) – $10
- Seniors (60+) – $3
- Parking – $5, daily
Note that there are a number of discount days. Where adults can get in for $5. You can find them here.
Butter Cow
You can’t go to the Illinois State Fair without seeing the butter cow, a staple since the 1920s. If you can’t attend, you can tune into the Butter Cow live stream.
Entertainment
Know that you will not be bored at the Illinois State Fair, as they have a wide variety of exciting events happening, as well as rides and attractions to keep you and your family entertained no matter how many times you go. On Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August 20, there will be auto races that you can attend.
Their Grandstand lineup this year is pretty impressive and boasts a number of well-known artists including Alanis Morrisette, Tim McGraw, The Doobie Brothers, and Maren Morris as well as many others. For more information about each performance, head to the Illinois State Fair website.
There will also be a variety of shows to take in including magic and acrobatics. If you or your kids love to ride the rides when you’re at the fair, consider purchasing a Megapass to get on all the rides and take part in all of the midway activities.
Food
A personal favorite of many a fairgoer, there will be a variety of delicious items to choose from. This year’s items include jumbo corn dogs, double-decker funnel cakes, beef jerky on a stick, and sirloin steak and potatoes.
The full list of food and vendors can be found on the Illinois State Fair website.
