Illinois State Fair

The history of the Illinois State Fair began in the nineteenth century for the purpose of promoting state agriculture through the competitive presentation of livestock and displays of farm products. The  modern Illinois State Fair is no different and remains to this day a way to promote Illinois´ finest and showcase agriculture. 

At the Illinois State Fair there are many animals that you are able to see and pet. People love to see  horses and bunnies. Another special attraction that you must see is the butter cow. Sounds weird, right? Well, this amazing sculpture is called the butter cow because it is made out of butter! Every year it is rebuilt, and sometimes the people in the Illinois State Fair that build it even add more things to it such as adding a small cow with the big cow. This is an attraction that I believe people are going to find interesting and would like to learn more about. Another amazing thing people love to see are the showing  of the animals. Those that show their livestock work hard all year to ensure that they have the best animals based on body structure. This experience is amazing and fun for everyone whether you have little kids or whether you are an adult. 

Every year there are different types of themes that are picked based on what is currently going on in our world.  In 2022, The Illinois State Fair theme was “Grow With Us.” The 2022 theme was chosen based on the fact there are updates occurring all around the Fairgrounds allowing them to continue to grow. The 2023 theme is not decided yet, but check back on the Illinois State Fair Home Page to see what the theme will be!

Something that many people love about the Illinois State Fair is the fact that there is music everywhere. Many people like to sit on the ground or in  chairs and listen to live music. Every day there are small concerts that are free all over the grounds that people can walk by and listen to. There are even big concerts! Famous singers and musical groups perform every night in the Grandstand. At the Illinois State Fair, they play mostly  country songs.  One of the most well-known singers that played live there before in the past years was Luke Combs.  When you listen to a song, you are going to realize that this event is fun and very entertaining at the same time. 

Two of people’s favorite attractions are the butter cow and the yellow giant slide just inside the main gate, now adorned with the Route 66 logo. Former Illinois Governor Jim Thompson took a trip down the giant slide every year just after cutting the ribbon to officially open the State Fair, turning it into a tradition for fairgoers of all ages. 

Fair food may be the biggest draw. Whether you enjoy an apple cider slush or lemonade shakeup, a corn dog or pizza, a ribeye steak sandwich or something from one of the many unique international food booths in the Village of Cultures, there’s truly something for everyone at the Illinois State Fair. Check out these fried oreos!