It’s not too late to go to the Illinois State Fair in Springfield. Think food, carnival rides, food, free entertainment, food, a twilight parade harness, tech exhibits, auto racing and food.
An easy three-hour drive south from Chicago, it’s about two miles in from Interstate 55 at the Sangamon Ave. exit 100 B.
Even though the 2021 fair started Aug. 12, it continues through Aug. 22 with daily special events and a new, must check-out, Tech Prairie STEAM Expo that opens Aug. 18 in the Orr Building.
The STEAM (like STEM) Expo features drone racing, interactive exhibits, Esport competitions and demonstrations. Go to the STEAM Expo website for drone racing and Esports competition registration links, exhibitors, livestreaming links and schedule of events at www.illinois.gov/steamexpo.
What you should know
Bring a mask for indoor exhibits
Find general information at General Info (illinois.gov.
Look for the Daily schedule illinois.gov to find events during your visit.
Hours: The Fairgrounds are open from 7 a.m. to Midnight.
General admission is Children (0-12) , free; Adults (13-59) $10 (Fridays & Saturdays) and Adults (13-59) $5 (other days) and Seniors (60+) $3.
Parking is $5 daily.
The State fairgrounds are at 801 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield, IL.(
(The ramps to exit Sangamon Ave to I-55 are closed for construction so detour to Sherman or Clear Lake Ave. exits for I-55. For ideas on what to do and what you will see go to Rides and Attractions – Rides and Attractions (illinois.gov)
Visit the STEAM Expo website for drone racing and Esports competition registration links, a list of exhibitors, livestreaming links and schedule of events at www.illinois.gov/steamexpo.
