The Du Quoin State Fair has received national acclaim from the International Association of Fairs & Expositions (IAFE), earning first place in the Facility Beautification Project category and second place in the Other Unique Marketing Tactic category for its innovative work on the Du Quoin State Fair Nature Area. Both honors underscore the fair’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its grounds with conservation-minded features, native plantings, and opportunities for year-round recreation and education. The beautification project, awarded first place by IAFE, involved the revitalization of a cabin, patio, and pathway near Main Street and Expo Drive. The area now features 66 native Illinois plants, including Big Bluestem, Purple Coneflower, Bee Balm, and Rattlesnake Master, accompanied by new signage that educates visitors on the vital role of pollinators in Illinois agriculture.
In addition, the fair received second place for its “DQSF Nature Area” marketing initiative, which positions the fairgrounds as a year-round destination for outdoor enjoyment and learning. The project includes a new Nature Area logo, the establishment of native pollinator plots, a 0.4-mile interpretive trail, and collaborative community projects with students from Du Quoin High School.
“The Du Quoin State Fair staff continues to lead with creativity and innovation,” said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. “These projects show how agriculture and the natural environment can work hand-in-hand to enhance the fairgrounds and create meaningful experiences for the community.”
Luke Davison, Du Quoin State Fair Manager, added, “The Nature Area has become a point of pride for our visitors and our local partners. From native plantings to student collaborations, we are creating a space that serves families throughout the year, and we appreciate IAFE recognizing the work put into these projects.”
The Du Quoin State Fair Nature Areas are open daily from dawn to dusk, with free admission. For more information, visit dsf.illinois.gov/nature-area