Illinois Department of Agriculture

04/16/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/17/2026 11:38

Illinois State Fair Arena Tickets To Go On Sale Tuesday, April 21

SPRINGFIELD, IL -
The Illinois State Fair is set to deliver high-energy entertainment in the Arena with a full slate of can't-miss events during the 2026 Fair. From rodeo action to roaring engines and crashing metal, this year's lineup offers something for every fairgoer. Tickets for all of these fan-favorite events will go on sale Tuesday, April 21 through Ticketmaster.

The Arena kicks off with two nights of rodeo excitement presented by Wooten Rodeo Company on Thursday, August 13 and Friday, August 14, both beginning at 7:30 p.m. Fans can experience classic rodeo competitions and thrilling performances. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-12.

Power and performance take center stage with the return of the Illinois Truck & Tractor Pulls across three nights:

  • Monday, August 17 at 7:30 p.m. - Mini Rod, Light Super Stock, 2WD Trucks, Heavy Modified, 9500# Pro Farm, Pro Stock
  • Tuesday, August 18 at 7:30 p.m. - Classic, Light Modified, 6850# Pro Farm, Super Stock Diesel Trucks, 10,500# Farm Stock, 9500# Limited Pro Stock
  • Wednesday, August 19 at 7:30 p.m. - 1050# Super Stock, Antique, Heavy Super Stock, 8500# Limited Pro Stock, 11,000# Pro Farm

Tickets for each night of pulls are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-12.

Fans of high-octane action won't want to miss Monsters of Destruction on Friday, August 21. The evening begins with a 5:30 p.m. Pit Party featuring meet-and-greets, autographs, and up-close access to the trucks. Monster truck rides and pit passes will be available for an additional fee. The main event begins at 7:30 p.m. and includes Tuff Trucks and SxS racing. Advance tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for children 12 and under. Day-of tickets are $30 for adults and $23 for children.

The week wraps up with a fan-favorite tradition, the Demolition Derby, on Saturday, August 22 at 5 p.m. Drivers will battle it out in a crowd-pleasing test of endurance and strategy. Tickets are $25 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under.

"This year's Arena lineup brings together a strong mix of returning favorites and high-impact entertainment that reflects what fairgoers love most," said Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II. "We're proud to continue offering events that showcase skill, competition, and excitement for audiences of all ages."

"The Arena is where energy and tradition collide. Whether it's the roar of engines, the intensity of competition, or the thrill of live action, these events create lasting memories for families and fans year after year," said Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark. "We're excited to welcome everyone back for another unforgettable lineup."


Tickets for all Arena events will be available through Ticketmaster, starting Tuesday, April 21. Additional details, including event information and updates, can be found by visiting the Illinois State Fair website.

Mark your calendars for the 2026 Illinois State Fair , August 13 through August 23 in Springfield.

Stay up to date with all the latest news and announcements from the Illinois State Fair by connecting with us via Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .
Illinois Department of Agriculture published this content on April 16, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on April 17, 2026 at 17:38 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]