With the Illinois State Fair quickly approaching, here are some things to keep an eye on ahead of next month's festivities.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - There are just three weeks until the start of the 2025 Illinois State Fair in Springfield.

This year will feature not only big Grandstand acts, but free entertainment for families. 

State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark told WAND News that she has made it a priority to create an affordable experience for fair-goers. 

"We pride ourselves in being able to maintain that we're one of the most affordable state fairs in the Midwest," Clark said. "Our gate prices haven't changed, our parking prices haven't changed, it's just $5 every day to park on the grounds."

Some of the music world's biggest stars are heading to the state capital to perform at the fair. 

Artists like Snoop Dog, Def Leppard, Brad Paisley and The Chainsmokers will take the stage at the Grandstand. 

Additional information is available on the Illinois State Fair's website. 

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