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Prairie State Wire

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Illinois Lottery returns as Grandstand Sponsor for 2025 State Fair

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Jerry F. Costello, II Director | Illinois Department Of Agriculture

Jerry F. Costello, II Director | Illinois Department Of Agriculture

The Illinois Lottery will return as the Grandstand Sponsor at the 2025 Illinois State Fair in Springfield, marking its 14th consecutive year in this role. The event will take place from August 7 to August 17, with the Lottery’s booth located on Illinois Avenue between Oldani Lane and Corn Dog Lane, open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Lottery has a longstanding relationship with the fair, dating back to its first weekly game draw held there on August 8, 1974. This year, attendees can purchase lottery tickets at the Illinois Lottery fun truck and receive a token for entry into the Giant Dice Roll contest. Additional activities include the Ticket Grab Machine and photo opportunities with the “Illinois Goes Big” prop.

Special events are planned throughout the fair. On Veterans and Gold Star Families Day (August 10), veterans can win a free lottery ticket using the Ticket Grab Machine by showing proof of service. Senior & Scout Day (August 11) will allow individuals aged 60 and over to participate in the same activity with proof of age. First Responder & Healthcare Heroes Day (August 15) will offer police officers a chance to win a free ticket by providing proof of service.

The Lottery is also highlighting its new Instant Tickets and FastPlay games during the fair. A focus will be placed on the “7X Bingo Multiplier Instant Ticket,” whose profits are directed entirely toward supporting causes within Illinois.

According to information provided by state officials, every dollar spent on Illinois Lottery tickets contributes approximately twenty-three cents toward public education and other designated programs across Illinois, supporting local communities through these funds.

Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, said: "This year at the Illinois State Fair, play your favorite games while also supporting Illinois communities. With every dollar you spend on the Lottery, 23 cents goes to fund public education and other special causes. Every ticket sold benefits the state, making it a win-win for Illinois!"

The Illinois State Fair is set to feature performances and activities in addition to these lottery events.