SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The ribbon is cut, and the 173rd Illinois State Fair is officially underway.

From Lainey Wilson and Matchbox Twenty at the Grandstand to the Village of Cultures and the Midway, there is plenty for people of all ages to enjoy.

"Whether you've been coming to the fair your entire life or this is your very first visit, we want you to explore," said Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark. "Try something new. Sing from the Grandstand or walk through the livestock barns."

State leaders say they're excited for visitors to see the improvements made around the fairgrounds, from new roofs to repaved roads and enhanced lighting. Springfield mayor Misty Buscher said the city is blessed to have historic investments for the fair. 

"Please, please, please also drive Route 66 and see Springfield," Buscher said. "Thank you for coming to our wonderful and beautiful city for this Illinois State Fair. I wish you all miles of smiles and fun."

Many farm families and future agriculture leaders will fill the fairgrounds Friday for Ag Day, and Saturday is dedicated to all of the young fair fans for Kids Day. 

Gov. Pritzker said he is excited to see The Chicks perform Aug. 22, but there is also plenty of fair food to enjoy.

"Right across from my tent up here is, in fact, a deep-fried food vendor. It's called Fried What," Pritzker said. "It's got truly fried everything as far as I can tell. So, I hate to say I might have to stop there, but I'm hoping you're not going to have cameras on me while I'm doing it." 

Admission is free for kids 12 and under every day of the fair. The entry fee for adults is $5 Sunday through Thursday and $10 on Friday and Saturday. Anyone over 60 years old can enter the fair for $3.

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