Your guide to Illinois state fair

By Andi Anderson

As you prepare to visit the Illinois State Fair, it's important to be aware of some key tips that will help make your experience enjoyable and hassle-free.

First, if you’ve purchased mobile tickets for any of the Grandstand concerts, make sure to download them to your Ticketmaster app before arriving. This will ensure a reliable connection and minimize any delays when entering the event.

Also, note that no outside drink containers will be allowed inside the Grandstand for concerts, including reusable cups and bottles. Beverages sold within the Grandstand will be opened at the time of purchase, and drinks on the track will be served in plastic cups.

Weather can be unpredictable, and all Grandstand concerts will go on rain or shine. Concert cancellations due to severe weather are rare and usually decided at the last minute. Keep an eye on the Illinois State Fair’s Facebook page for the latest updates.

For getting around the fairgrounds, trams will be available again this year, thanks to sponsorship from the IL Corn Growers Association. These complimentary trams will operate continuously throughout the day on a dedicated route.

Stops include various key locations such as the Campground/Arena entrance, Conservation World, and the Goat Barn at Grandstand Avenue.

If you need a wheelchair or scooter, rentals are available daily on Grandstand Avenue near the Goat Barn. Rental rates are $20 for a Wagon/Stroller Combo, $25 for wheelchairs, $60 for a single scooter, and $110 for a double scooter.

Rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis, and you’ll need to provide your driver’s license as a deposit.

For your safety, the Illinois State Fair provides First Aid services. Volunteers from SIU Medicine operate a First Aid Station in the Emmerson Building Annex, open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. An additional station will be available nightly on Grandstand Avenue from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Lastly, to enhance your fair experience, download the Illinois State Fair app. Available for both Apple and Android devices, the app provides a daily schedule of events, a map of the fairgrounds, and even a Food Finder tool to help you locate your favorite vendors.

By planning ahead and following these tips, you’re sure to have a fantastic time at the Illinois State Fair, creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Photo Credit: illinois-state-fair-