Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton Welcomes Visitors to the 2026 Illinois State Fair

SPRINGFIELD - Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton is thrilled to welcome all Illinoisans and visitors to the 2026 Illinois State Fair, Aug. 13-23, at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.

"The Illinois State Fair is a celebration of everything that makes our state special and the traditions that bring us together each year," said Lt. Governor Stratton. "From livestock exhibitions and agricultural showcases to concerts, entertainment, and the iconic Butter Cow, the fair highlights the incredible contributions of Illinoisans across our state. As I often say, 'Ag Connects Us All,' and I'm proud to celebrate the industry that feeds and fuels Illinois."

For more than 170 years, the Illinois State Fair has brought communities together from across the state, creating opportunities to celebrate Illinois' agricultural heritage while supporting tourism and economic growth. The fair showcases the state's agricultural excellence through livestock competitions, farm equipment displays, horticultural exhibits, and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

Guests can also enjoy carnival rides, local food favorites, family-friendly entertainment, and concerts featuring national acts at the Grandstand. A longtime favorite attraction, the iconic Butter Cow continues to celebrate Illinois-made dairy with its 500-pound sculpture.

The Lieutenant Governor's tent is located at Brian Raney Avenue across from the Expo Building. Fairgoers are invited to visit the tent and learn more about the Office of the Lieutenant Governor's work on behalf of all Illinoisans. Lieutenant Governor Stratton's "Ag Connects Us All" initiative promotes agricultural education, career pathways, and access to fresh food across Illinois, with a focus on connecting communities to the opportunities and resources within the state's largest industry. As Chair of the Governor's Rural Affairs Council, Lieutenant Governor Stratton continues to highlight the importance of rural communities and the role they play in Illinois' economy and future.