Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Republican Party will hold its annual Republican Day Rally and BBQ at the State Fair on Aug. 17. The Illinois State Fair will be held Aug. 10-20 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds located at 801 Sangamon Ave. in Springfield.

“Come join Illinois Republicans on Aug. 17 as we gather for our annual rally at the 2023 Illinois State Fair in Springfield to enjoy some BBQ and hear from Illinois Republican leaders from across the state!” the Illinois Republican Party said on Facebook. “You MUST register in advance and receive your free ticket to attend the event. Tickets also get you onto fairgrounds for FREE.”

The annual event will feature a barbecue and speeches by Republican leaders from across the state. It offers a platform for Republican leaders to address attendees, share their vision, and discuss key issues that affect the state of Illinois and its citizens.

Republican Day is open to the public and welcomes anyone interested in participating. Registration for the event is now open. Interested individuals can secure their tickets by visiting the official Illinois Republican Party website. The last day to request tickets is Friday, Aug. 11.

The first 1,000 registrants will receive State Fair-issued tickets that grant them free admission to the fairgrounds, a complimentary BBQ lunch at the rally, and access to the Republican Day Rally event. Those who register after the first 1,000 will receive tickets for the rally only, without free fairground admission or a lunch. Ticket pickup details will be communicated via email on Saturday, Aug. 1. The rally and BBQ will start at noon on Aug 17. Gates will open at 11:30 a.m.

The State of Illinois announced the schedule of events earlier this year. It includes a lineup of theme and discount days for 2023, with several changes from previous years. The fair will kick off with County Fairs and Horse Racing Day on Thursday, Aug. 10. Agriculture Day will be held on Friday, Aug. 11; its aim is to accommodate more livestock exhibitors and youth participants in agriculture. Tuesday, Aug 15, will bring a new theme day called "Twosday," which will offer $2 admission for seniors and adults along with $2 carnival rides while also honoring Mega Passes and Jumbo Passes. Additionally, the fair will feature special days dedicated to veterans, seniors, scouts, first responders and health care heroes, among others.