Pritzker, state leaders cut ribbon for 2024 Illinois State Fair

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The ribbon is cut and the 171st Illinois State Fair is officially underway.

From the Jonas Brothers to Lil Wayne at the Grandstand to the Village of Cultures and rides at the Midway, there is plenty to enjoy for people of all ages.

2024 Illinois State Fair ribbon cutting — Gov. JB Pritzker and other state leaders cut the ribbon for the Illinois State Fair Main Gate on August 8, 2024.

"From the 800 seat big top circus in Happy Hollow to the Ninja Warrior obstacle course just outside the coliseum, or the brand new Fairytales on Ice performance in the air-conditioned Orr Building, the Illinois State Fair is your home to family friendly entertainment," said State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark.

Miss Illinois County Fair Queen Natalie Evans said the fair gives a sense of unity for all Illinoisans.

"For many years, the Illinois State Fair has provided my family and the village it takes for me to get here with fun, entertainment and most importantly memories," Evans said.

The Illinois State Fair is also the perfect time to recognize family farms and young people involved with the FFA and 4H. Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello said he is glad to see Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton at the fairgrounds throughout the year, but these 11 days are Springfield's time to shine.

"These fairgrounds are home to a time honored tradition where we can come together to learn about our state, eat great food and create lasting memories," Stratton said. "Yes, Director Costello, if you know me, many of my memories will be formed around apple cider slushies."

With Culler's fries, BBQ and deep fried everything, there are countless food options at the fair. Yet, Gov. JB Pritzker has some all time favorites.

"Fried Oreo is hard to beat, and of course we've got corn dogs," Pritzker said. "Vose Korndogs! With mustard, I might add."

Many farm families and future agriculture leaders are expected at the fairgrounds Friday for Ag Day. Saturday is dedicated to all of the young fair fans for Kid's Day.

Pritzker said he is proud of the hard work the Illinois Department of Agriculture and State Fair staff put in each year to bring more people through the gates.

"It's gotten better, and better and better," Pritzker said. "People all around the region and all around the United States are hearing about the Illinois State Fair. That's why we've been breaking records."