By Andi Anderson
The Illinois State Fair Grandstand has updated its safety and visitor guidelines to provide a secure and enjoyable experience for all guests during the 2025 fair, running from August 7 to August 17 in Springfield.
This year, walk-through metal detectors and bag checks will be in place at all Grandstand entrances. Bags or purses larger than 14"x8", backpacks, and duffle bags will not be allowed.
Guests who leave and re-enter must go through security again. Reviewing the list of prohibited items before arrival is encouraged.
For parking, visitors may use Gates 4, 6, 7, 8, or 11. Gates 6 (Lot 18) and 7 (Lot 21) are closest to the Grandstand. Parking costs $5 per vehicle each day. Handicap parking is available at Gates 4 and 11, with tram service running until 8 p.m.
Concessions inside the Grandstand are now cashless. All drinks will be opened at the time of purchase, and on-track drinks will be served in plastic cups. Bottles, cans, sealed containers, and outside drink containers are not permitted. However, outside food purchased on the fairgrounds is allowed.
For the party tent, located inside Parking Lot 18A, guests must have both a concert ticket and a party ticket. The party tent opens as indicated on the ticket and generally runs for 1½ hours.
Once concert gates open, all party attendees must enter the concert venue, as re-entry into the tent is not permitted. Late arrivals after the tent gate closes must use concert entrances, with no refunds issued.
Visitors using mobile tickets should download them to the Ticketmaster app before arriving to avoid delays.
For further details, guests can visit the Grandstand Event Policies page.
Photo Credit: illinois-state-fair
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle