DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Live entertainment, livestock shows, and harness racing return to the Macon County Fairgrounds this summer.
The fair board and officers announced on Thursday the lineup for the 168th Annual Macon County Fair. President Evan Hall said his team has worked tirelessly to bring the fair back to its former glory. He touted that attendance last year was 15,000 compared to the 10,000 fairgoers they've seen in previous years.
"To see the community kind of come back and get involved in the fair and get enthusiastic about it and support it again."
The fair board made major improvements to the grounds, like knocking down barns, replacing water lines, clearing brush, and improving livestock areas.
"We want to revamp the infrastructure of our grounds and we think by doing that we hope to be a destination for people showing livestock from across the country," said Hall.
Hall explained his board wants to educate the public about agriculture and promote local producers. On Thursday he said his board has placed a major emphasis on reinvesting in livestock shows. This year fairgoers can also anticipate a rabbit and poultry show.
In addition, live music will return to the Grandstands. The Macon County Fair Board announced the Marshall Tucker Band will take the stage Thursday, June 6 at 7 p.m. Tickets will go on sale Monday, Jan. 29.
"We are just thrilled to be able to bring the grandstand back to life with live entertainment, among all things like the rodeo and tractor pull," said Wendy Harned, board member.
Other grandstand events include: Downstate Classic Harness Racing on Wednesday, June 5; a rodeo on June 7; and the truck and tractor pulls on June 8.
The fair opens on June 5 and runs through June 9. Gate Admission is $5 per person and kids 4 and under are free. There is free parking on the fairgrounds and at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. For more information, click here.
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