The Illinois State Fair announced on March 24 that The Chicks will perform at the Illinois Lottery Grandstand Stage on Saturday, August 22, 2026. The trio—Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire, and Emily Strayer—are recognized as the best-selling U.S. female band of all time.
The announcement is significant for fairgoers and music fans across generations. The Chicks have sold more than 30.5 million albums and are the only female group to achieve multiple diamond-certified releases. Their career includes thirteen Grammy Awards and numerous other accolades.
Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II said, “We’re proud to continue bringing top tier entertainment to the Illinois State Fair, and The Chicks are a fantastic addition to this year’s lineup. Their music has stood the test of time and continues to resonate with fans of all ages. We’re excited to welcome them to Springfield this August.”
Rebecca Clark, Illinois State Fair Manager, said, “The Chicks are known for putting on an unforgettable show. With a catalog of songs that so many people know and love, this will be a special night at the Grandstand that fairgoers won’t want to miss.” Tickets go on sale Saturday, March 28 at 10 a.m., with prices ranging from $88 for Tier 3 seats up to $168 for Blue Ribbon seating.
After nearly fourteen years without new material, The Chicks released their fifth studio album Gaslighter in July 2020 through Columbia Records. This album was co-produced by Jack Antonoff.
The Illinois Department of Agriculture manages funding through initiatives like Partners for Conservation in support of sustainable agriculture and soil conservation according to the official website. It also supports the state’s economy by promoting agriculture—a sector contributing over $51 billion annually while sustaining nearly one million jobs in food and fiber industries according to the official website. Facilities used by the department include those at the State Fairgrounds in Springfield as well as offices in DeKalb and DuQuoin according to the official website.
Operating within state government structures according to its official website, the department employs more than three hundred staff members statewide with an annual budget exceeding $100 million according to its official website. Its work includes regulatory services aimed at consumer protection alongside programs supporting agricultural producers while conserving natural resources according to its official website. As described by its own reporting the agency administers laws and partnerships designed both for industry oversight and sustainable practices.
Mark your calendars: The Illinois State Fair will run from August 13 through August 23 in Springfield.
