It's almost 'Showtime!' for the Illinois State Fair

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The start of the Illinois State Fair is just a few weeks away, but for months organizers have been preparing to welcome thousands of people to the fairgrounds.

"Everything is starting to come together," said Director Rebecca Clark.

This year's theme is "It's Showtime!" Organizers said the theme captures the spirit of the fair on many levels – livestock shows, Grandstand performances, circuses, rodeos, diving shows, ice skating performances, and much more.

Big-named artists, like Lil Wayne, Miranda Lambert, Motley Crue, and the Jonas Brothers will take the Grandstand stage.

"We've really put together one of the most diverse lineups that we've ever seen at the Grandstand," said Clark.

It's not just Grandstand acts, There will also be free concerts throughout the fair. The Grand Central Stage will have a Taylor Swift Tribute band and the Marshall Tucker Band.

"You can find a little something for everybody at the Illinois State Fair," Clark explained.

While music is a big highlight, Clark said the food is always something fairgoers are talking about. She mentioned Chatham's own Scoop Du Jour will have a donut ice cream sandwich, while Pot Belly's will also be a feature at the fair.

"My favorite is always going to the 'Fried What' stand and seeing what amazing concoction they are bringing this year."

Family and affordability is always one of Clark's top priorities. She encouraged families to check out the FFA Barnyard on Grandstand Avenue and the Monster Truck Show on opening night.

There will also be Fairy Tales on Ice, in addition to the big top circus.

Finally, the fairgrounds have seen major renovations over the past couple of years. This is a part of a $50 million capital project to make much-needed improvements to the multi-purpose arena. Clark said there have also been various road projects and construction projects finishing up ahead of the gates opening.

"The fair has been around since the 1800s, you can't throw a rock out here without hitting something historic. And, if you don't take care of those buildings and those roads, the fairgoers will start to notice it."

The gates open to the fair on August 8. It will kick off with the Twilight Parade. Here is a list of the daily schedule.

For ticket prices, click here.