SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Illinois State Fair is teaming up with the Illinois Product Farmers Market for an event featuring fair food, ticket deals, giveaways and live entertainment.
The event will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 30, at The Shed on the Illinois State Fairgrounds. Visitors can also shop the weekly farmers market.
“As we count down to the start of the 2026 Illinois State Fair, we’re joining forces with the Illinois Product Farmers Market to give families another opportunity to save on one of Illinois’ favorite summer traditions,” Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II said.
The Grandstand Box Office will be open during the event for concert, arena and auto racing ticket sales.
People who have already purchased a 2026 Mega Pass or Jumbo Pass can have their photos taken at the Emmerson Building, which will offer extended hours. Organizers said July 30 is the last chance to buy passes before prices increase Aug. 1.
Several State Fair-themed food trucks will also be on site. Food Baby will serve smash burgers and cheese curds, while Coleman’s will offer Route 66 Cozy Dogs, fries and lemon shakeups. Songbird Fruit, a new State Fair vendor this year, will serve grilled Illinois peaches and ice cream.
Jax Dion will perform on the Lincoln Stage, located across from The Shed.
Attendees can also enter to win prize packages that include Fair food coupon bundles, an Illinois Beef gift basket, arena event tickets and Illinois wine. Winners do not need to be present.
Representatives from Nelson’s Catering and Illinois Wine will also be selling drink tickets in advance for the fair’s beer tents, Grandstand and Artisan Building.
Visitors can sign up for several Illinois State Fair contests, including the Baby Photo Contest, Pet Photo Contest, Amateur Talent Contest, Cutest Little Farmer Contest, Diaper Derby Contest and Cheer and Dance Showcase.
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