Everything You Should Know Before Visiting the Illinois State Fair

The Illinois State Fair runs August 13 through August 23, bringing carnival rides, grandstand concerts, delicious fair food, exhibits, and plenty of family fun. If you've never been to the Illinois State Fair (like me), here are a few things you should know before you go.

How to Access Your Illinois State Fair Tickets

One of the biggest things to remember is that the Illinois State Fair uses digital ticketing through Etix. Download the Etix app to your phone before you arrive so you'll have easy access to your admission and grandstand event tickets.

Read More: This Year's Illinois State Fair Lineup is Loaded

Photo by Utku Özen | @utku.zn on Unsplash

If you're attending a grandstand concert or event, keep in mind that grandstand tickets are sold separately from your Illinois State Fair admission. Be sure to download your tickets to your phone before heading to the fairgrounds.

Grandstand Security and Entry Rules

Security is another thing to plan for. All guests entering the grandstand must pass through a metal detector, and bag checks are required at every entrance. If you leave the grandstand, you'll need to go through the security screening again before re-entering.

Items You Can't Bring Into the Grandstand

There are also several prohibited items. Backpacks, duffel bags, coolers, wagons, umbrellas, and selfie sticks are not allowed inside the grandstand. If you bring any of these items, you'll be asked to return them to your vehicle before entering.

Need help getting around? Wheelchairs and electric scooters are available for daily rental near the Goat Barn and the Illinois Building.

Another thing to remember is that outside drink containers, including bottles, cans, and reusable cups, are not permitted inside the grandstand. Concession stands are cashless, and beverages are served open or poured into plastic cups.

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Finally, the most important rule of all: have fun! One of these years, I hope to make it to the Illinois State Fair myself. Even if I don't catch one of the grandstand concerts, I'd love to experience everything the fair has to offer at least once.