Prairie State Wire

The Du Quoin State Fair, in collaboration with Governor JB Pritzker, has announced that Illinois 4-H will serve as the Grand Marshals for the annual Twilight Parade. The organization offers numerous opportunities and experiences for youth across Illinois, providing over 190,000 4-H experiences in all 102 counties. Over the past year, Illinois 4-H saw a 13% growth with minority youth comprising 30% of those served through educational programs.

"Here in Illinois, we are continuing to make agricultural education programs more accessible for all youth in Illinois because it is our youth who will become our future agricultural leaders—young minds who will grapple with and solve the challenges of tomorrow," said Governor JB Pritzker. "I couldn't be prouder to announce that, this year, Illinois 4-H will serve as Grand Marshals for the annual Twilight Parade."

"These 4-H leaders represent the future of agriculture in Illinois," said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. "I am proud to have ag education programs continue to grow over the past three years, including in our urban communities, providing young people with opportunities in our state's number one industry."

"Illinois 4-H is honored to be serving as the Grand Marshal for the parade at the Illinois State Fair," stated Kevin Carey, Acting Director of 4-H Youth Development & Senior Program Lead. "4-H represents a diverse group of youth who are finding belonging in their local, statewide, and nationwide opportunities. We hope that our continued presence and engagement as an organization inspires and invites any youth interested in pursuing their passions. 4-H shapes future leaders by providing hands-on experiences, fostering skills, and instilling a project-based mentality."

This year's Twilight Parade theme is "It's Showtime!" The deadline to enter a float is August 9th; entry forms are available on the Du Quoin State Fair website.

The parade will commence at 6 p.m. on Friday, August 23 from the south end of Grandstand Avenue and proceed to Main Street before turning west towards Pacer Avenue. It will then turn south onto Pacer Avenue before exiting Gate 6 back onto Bob Green Avenue.

The Du Quoin State Fair will run from August 23 through September 2 in Du Quoin, IL. Parking on fairgrounds on Friday, August 23 is free along with admission throughout the fair.