Illinois State Fair daily schedule

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — We are a day away from the opening of this year's Illinois State Fair!

Check out the daily Fair schedule below to see what is happening each day throughout the upcoming week.

DAILY SCHEDULE

Thursday, August 8 - County Fair & Horse Racing Day This is the official start of the fair! Gates open at 7:00 a.m. The first day of the fair also features the twilight annual Twilight Parade which starts at 5:30 p.m. from Lincoln Park.

Friday, August 9 - Agriculture Day Illinois agriculture, which is featured throughout the fair, is highlighted on this day.

Saturday, August 10 - Kids Day, which features special programming aimed at educating and entertaining kids of all ages. Kids 12 & under get in FREE to the Illinois State Fair!

Sunday, August 11 - Veterans & Gold Star Families Day Veterans and their families are admitted to the grounds for free. A veterans parade and activities are some of the highlights for the day. Discounted ride passes for families of military veterans.

Monday, August 12 - Senior & Scout Day Fair visitors 60 and older are admitted to the fairgrounds for free. Special events for Senior Citizens will take place throughout the day in the Illinois Building. The Scout Day Tent will be located directly outside the entrance to the Carnival Midway.

Tuesday, August 13 - Twosday A fantastic mid-week special that encourages families to attend the Illinois State Fair. Discounted admission is offered for adults and seniors on this day, and all rides in the Carnival Midway and Adventure Village will be just $2 each.

Wednesday, August 14 - Governor’s Day While the Governor attends much of the Illinois State Fair, this is his day to host special guests, including former Illinois Governors. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend the Governor’s Sale of Champions. At this event, the grand champion commodities and junior livestock including the barrow, steer, wether, poultry trio and rabbit trio are auctioned off to benefit our agricultural youth.

Thursday, August 15 - Republican Day Illinois Republicans host special guests on this day.

Friday, August 16 - First Responder & Healthcare Heroes Day Welcome to the weekend! All police officers, firefighters, EMTs and Healthcare Workers who show their badge at the gate will be admitted to the Illinois State Fair for FREE. Also, look for special offers and discounts from various food vendors while you enjoying your day on at the fair!

Saturday, August 17 - Park District Conservation Day Members of more than 45 Park Districts from throughout Illinois entertain fairgoers across the grounds and host activities in Conservation World.

Sunday, August 18 - Family Day Bring the family out and enjoy the last day of the fair.

To see a full schedule of the grandstand entertainment click here.