By Andi Anderson
The Du Quoin State Fair has introduced a new online registration system for livestock, equine, and home show exhibitors. The fair has partnered with ShoWorks to replace the traditional paper-entry process with a modern digital platform.
The system, along with the Premium Books, is now available on the official Du Quoin State Fair website.
For several months, Du Quoin State Fair staff, show superintendents, and youth advisors worked together to prepare the transition from paper forms to online registration. The new system is designed to make the registration experience easier and more efficient for exhibitors.
Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, highlighted the benefits of the upgrade. He said, “We are excited to bring our registration process into the 21st century with this powerful tool. Our priority is to make the process more efficient for our exhibitors.”
The online registration platform reflects a growing trend across agricultural fairs and livestock events. By adopting ShoWorks, the Du Quoin State Fair aims to meet industry standards while offering a secure and user-friendly entry process.
Luke Davison, Manager of the Du Quoin State Fair, emphasized the advantages of the new system. He said, "Online registration has become the standard across the industry, and ShoWorks allows us to meet those expectations. Most exhibitors are already familiar with systems like this, making the transition seamless while giving us a more efficient and secure way to manage entries."
To help participants complete their registrations, a step-by-step tutorial has been made available on the Competitive Events page of the fair’s website. Exhibitors who need additional assistance can contact the Competitive Events office by phone. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to answer questions and provide support.
Exhibitors should remember that the entry deadline for 2026 is 11:59 p.m. on August 8. The Du Quoin State Fair will take place from August 28 through September 7.
The new online registration system is expected to simplify the entry process while improving convenience and efficiency for all participants. For more information visit https://dsf.illinois.gov/.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotografixx
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle