Illinois’ two state fairs attracted more than one million combined visitors for the second consecutive year, according to the governor’s office.
The Illinois State Fair in Springfield drew approximately 714,000 visitors, the third-highest attendance in its history. The Du Quoin State Fair welcomed a record 287,000 visitors.
Springfield also established a single-day attendance record when nearly 104,000 people entered the fair on Friday, August 21st.
Concerts were another major draw. Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson each attracted 15,533 fans for sold-out performances, setting concert attendance records. The fair sold a record 72,143 grandstand concert tickets overall.
This year’s Springfield theme, “Miles of Smiles,” celebrated the 100th anniversary of Route 66. The fair also featured its traditional butter cow, more than 160 hours of free entertainment and numerous food and carnival promotions.
Gov. JB Pritzker’s office said the average cost for a family of four to attend either state fair, including parking, admission, two ride passes and food, was about $145.
Planning is already underway for next year. The 2027 Illinois State Fair will run August 12-22 in Springfield, while the Du Quoin State Fair will be held August 27 through September 6.