By Andi Anderson
Lil Wayne's performance at the Illinois State Fair Grandstand on Wednesday night shattered previous attendance records, drawing a crowd of 15,427 people.
This remarkable turnout surpassed the previous record of 15,329 set by Jason Aldean in 2011. Other top attendance records included Florida Georgia Line with 15,204 tickets sold in 2014, Reba McEntire with 14,823 in 2019, and Hootie and the Blowfish with 13,956 in 1995.
Governor JB Pritzker expressed pride in the event's success, noting that the Illinois State Fair is a place where people from diverse backgrounds come together.
He highlighted the significance of the fair, which on the same day also hosted a naturalization ceremony for nearly 200 new citizens from 49 countries. "Both events provided opportunities for people of all backgrounds, faiths, and musical tastes to come together and celebrate our differences as well as our similarities," Governor Pritzker said.
Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, emphasized the importance of offering a diverse lineup at the Grandstand.
He noted that Lil Wayne, being a rap legend, was a key factor in drawing such a large crowd. "To break the previous attendance records underscores the importance of a diverse lineup at the Illinois State Fair," Costello added.
The Illinois State Fair Grandstand shows will continue through Sunday, featuring performances by the Jonas Brothers, Smashing Pumpkins, Miranda Lambert, and Shaboozey. Concert tickets remain available online and at the Grandstand box office.
This event highlights the appeal of varied musical acts and the unifying power of the Illinois State Fair in bringing people together to enjoy music and culture.
Photo Credit: illinois-state-fair
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle