General Information

The 2026 Illinois State Fair runs from Thursday, August 13th through Sunday, August 23rd.

The Fairgrounds are open from 7 a.m. to Midnight for the duration of the Fair.

Discount Admission Books and Seasonal Parking Passes can be purchased online ahead of your arrival through our digital ticketing partner, Etix.

Daily Admission Rates: *

Children (0-12)	FREE	Daily
Adults (13-59)	$10.00	Fridays & Saturdays
Adults (13-59)	$5.00	Sunday-Thursday *Note discount days below
Seniors (60+)	$3.00	Daily *Note discount days below

Parking Rates: *

Daily	Gates 4, 6, 7, 8, or 11	$5.00
Seasonal	Gate 6	$40.00

*Prices Subject to Change

FREE & Discount Admission Days:

Sunday, August 16	Veterans & their immediate families	FREE with proper ID
Monday, August 17	Seniors & Scouts	FREE with proper ID
Tuesday, August 18	Seniors & Adults	$2.00 Admission
Friday, August 21	First Responders and Healthcare Workers	FREE with proper ID

Discount Admission Booklets:

Admission Booklet

$45.00

Eleven (11) Any-Day 2026 Adult Admission Tickets

Senior Admission Booklet

$30.00

Eleven (11) Any-Day 2026 Senior Admission Tickets

*Seniors receive FREE Admission on 8/17.

Fairgoer Services

This is a listing of services offered such as Bus and Taxi, Lost and Found, Administrative Offices, Accessibility, Restrooms, etc.

Safety & Security

The Illinois State Fair, in collaboration with the Illinois State Police, has introduced updated security measures to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests. Here you will find important safety & security information.

Maps and Directions

This is the place to find Maps and get directions on the Fairgrounds.

Camping

The Illinois State Fairgrounds Campground is open. Reservations are not required nor accepted. Additional information regarding our campground can be found on our non-fair space rental website.

Webcams

This is a listing of live video cameras throughout the fairgrounds. You can select one of these and virtually be at the Illinois State Fair.

Gallery

A few photos of events and highlights of the fair.

Daily Schedule

This page provides a complete schedule for the State Fair.

Sensory Friendly Fair

Globally, one in seven individuals live with a disability and many more live with an invisible disability. Those with autism, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PDSD) and other sensory-processing disorders often experience sensory overload, limiting their ability to comfortably participate in crowded social gatherings. In 2023, the Illinois State Fair announced two new initiatives aimed at increasing accessibility and inclusivity for those who suffer from sensory processing disorders.

Plan Your Trip

Download this brochure of events, maps, schedules and more so you can plan your visit.

Employment/Volunteerism

The Illinois State Fair has several opportunities for qualified individuals.