Prairie State Wire

Governor JB Pritzker announced record-breaking attendance totals for the 2024 Illinois State Fair, with more than 773,000 people attending the 11-day event. This marks the highest number on record since industry standards were enacted.

"Each year, the hardworking team at the Illinois Department of Agriculture manages to improve the Illinois State Fair with innovative new offerings, bigger and more diverse entertainment options, and an unwavering commitment to spotlighting Illinois agriculture," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Grandstand artists like the Jonas Brothers, Keith Urban and Miranda Lambert drew big crowds. We were especially excited to have Lil Wayne break the Grandstand attendance record by selling more than 15,000 tickets."

The 2024 state fair attendance figure exceeded that of 2023 by nearly 66,000 attendees.

"While it's gratifying to break attendance records, our real aim is to create an event that highlights all the things that make Illinois special, especially agriculture, our number one industry," said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. "The numbers are proof that the Illinois State Fair is a summer destination for families and second to none in the nation."

A new feature this year was a naturalization ceremony on Governor's Day where Governor Pritzker welcomed nearly 200 new citizens from 49 countries around the world.

In addition to a robust Grandstand lineup, events such as horse and auto races, truck and tractor pulls, a circus, rodeo and demolition derby contributed to this year's success. Carnival revenue also saw significant growth over 2023.

"Some of the credit goes to mother nature for the cool, dry weather, but that's only part of the story. We worked purposefully to offer something for everyone at the Illinois State Fair. Promotions and discounts made the fair more budget-friendly for families with expanded free entertainment options as well," said Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark. "Planning is already underway for the 2025 Illinois State Fair with an emphasis on introducing new elements while maintaining traditions people expect and love."

The Governor's Sale of Champions posted record-breaking sales with combined sales figures reaching $110,000 for the Grand Champion Steer and $65,000 for the Land of Lincoln Grand Champion Steer.

Illinois state agencies partnered to provide various community services during this period:

- The Illinois Secretary of State issued numerous driver's licenses; ID cards; REAL IDs; license plate stickers.

- The Illinois Department of Natural Resources issued several licenses and permits.

Governor Pritzker highlighted investments exceeding $85 million in infrastructure improvements addressing deferred maintenance throughout fairgrounds. Updates included repairs to roofs, sidewalks and a pedestrian tunnel among others.

Planning is now underway for next year's fair scheduled from August 7-17.