The 2026 Illinois State Fair is celebrating the 100th anniversary of historic Route 66 with the theme “Miles of Smiles.”
Because the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield sit along the iconic Mother Road, this year’s fair is serving as part of the statewide celebration marking a century since Route 66 helped connect communities and shape American travel.
Fair officials say the theme recognizes the memories, music and traditions that both Route 66 and the Illinois State Fair have provided generations of visitors.
As part of the celebration, visitors who tour the Illinois State Museum’s “Miles of Memories: Stories of Route 66” exhibit through August 20th can receive a voucher for one adult weekday admission to the Illinois State Fair.
The 2026 Illinois State Fair runs August 13th-23rd in Springfield and will feature a variety of exhibits, entertainment and events highlighting Illinois’ agricultural heritage while celebrating the Route 66 centennial. More information can be found at https://illinoisroute66.org