Prairie State Wire

The Illinois State Fair is reintroducing tram services for its 2024 event, scheduled to run from August 8 through August 18 in Springfield. The service, sponsored by the IL Corn Growers Association, will feature two complimentary trams operating on a dedicated route throughout the fairgrounds.

"We are excited to bring back trams as a convenient way to move our guests around the Illinois State Fair," said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. "The fairgrounds cover 366 acres, and we want to make the experience accessible with tram stops at popular spots around the grounds."

Tram stops will include key locations such as the Campground/Arena entrance, 4-H Road at the 4-H Master Gardeners, entrance to Conservation World, Goat Barn at Grandstand Avenue, Horse Racing Office, South End of the Half-Mile Track near Gate 4, and the Hobbies Arts & Crafts building. Additionally, wheelchair and scooter rentals will be available at designated areas within the fairgrounds.

Operating hours for the trams are as follows:

- Thursday, August 8: 12 p.m.-8 p.m.

- Friday, August 9: 12 p.m.-8 p.m.

- Saturday, August 10: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

- Sunday, August 11: 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

- Monday, August 12: 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

- Tuesday, August 13: 12 p.m.-8 p.m.

- Wednesday, August 14: 12 p.m.-8 p.m.

- Thursday, August 15: 12 p.m.-8 p.m.

- Friday, August 16: 12 p.m.-8 p.m.

- Saturday, August 17: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

- Sunday, August 18: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

"The Illinois State Fair highlights agriculture and IL Corn is proud to power and support the return of the trams," said Jon Rosenstiel, Chairman of the IL Corn Marketing Board. "As people move about the fair they can learn more about the role of corn ethanol and agriculture—the state's number one industry."

Fairgoers are encouraged to stay updated with news and announcements by connecting via Facebook and Instagram.