Prairie State Wire

The Illinois State Fair is gearing up for its 100 Days Out Kickoff Party, set to take place on May 6 from noon to 6 p.m. at the Village of Cultures on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. The event aims to offer a preview of the summer fair experience with food, entertainment, and activities.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of popular fair foods and drinks, including offerings from Mr. Ribeye, Coleman Concessions, Wafflelicious, and Illinois Wine. Additionally, there will be free children's activities provided by the Springfield Park District's Henson Robinson Zoo and Washington Park Preschool.

Attendees will have opportunities to participate in engaging activities such as trying their luck at the State Fair Dunk Tank or taking a ride on the Giant Slide known as Slide Down 66. Live music will be performed by After Sunset from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., providing family-friendly tunes.

Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark expressed enthusiasm about the event: "We are excited to give our fairgoers an opportunity to experience the fair outside of August." She also mentioned that attendees could win prizes like Grandstand concert tickets and various passes.

The kickoff party is free to attend, with complimentary parking available on-site. The upcoming Illinois State Fair is scheduled for August 10 through 20 in Springfield. Updates and announcements can be followed via social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.