Jerry Costello Director of Illinois Department Of Agriculture | Official Website
Jerry Costello Director of Illinois Department Of Agriculture | Official Website
SPRINGFIELD, IL - The Illinois State Fair has announced "Adventure Awaits" as the theme for its 2025 event. The fair promises a wide range of activities including livestock competitions, performances, carnival rides, food offerings, and entertainment.
The event will begin with the Illinois State Fair Twilight Parade at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 7. This parade marks the start of an 11-day celebration focused on agriculture, community, and creativity in Illinois. Participants such as high school bands and community groups will join the parade through Springfield streets to the fairgrounds. Parade entries are open until July 8; further details can be found on statefair.illinois.gov or by contacting the Special Events office at 217.782.0777.
"The Twilight Parade is the perfect way to kick off this adventure," said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. He emphasized that this year's theme encourages attendees to explore new experiences starting with the parade.
Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark added, "There's a world of fun waiting inside the gates." She encouraged families to enjoy refreshments like lemon shake-ups while watching this tradition unfold.
The parade route begins at Lincoln Park, moves onto Sangamon Avenue, enters through the Main Gate of the fairgrounds, travels down Main Street, turns onto Grandstand Avenue past the Grandstand, and exits through Lot 21.
Opening day on August 7 includes admission prices set at $5 for adults and $3 for seniors; children under 12 enter free. Carnival rides will be available from noon with each ride costing $3 all day. A special parking offer allows paid parking on August 7 to include free return parking on August 12, 13, or 14.
Additionally, "Monsters of Destruction" is scheduled at The Arena at 7:30 p.m., with entry advised through Gate 6 due to parade traffic concerns. Tickets are available online.
The fair will run from August 7 through August 17 in Springfield. Updates are available via Facebook and Instagram.
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