2024 Illinois County Fair Dates: Complete Schedule for Summer Events
County fairs are a beloved tradition in Illinois, bringing communities together for fun, food, and entertainment. Each year, dozens of counties across the state host these exciting events. In 2024, the fair season kicks off in early summer and runs through fall.
The 2024 Illinois County Fair schedule includes over 100 fairs spanning from June to September. Some early fairs to mark on your calendar are the Hamilton County Fair in McLeansboro from June 8-15 and the Henry County Fair in Cambridge from June 18-23. July sees a flurry of activity with events like the Grundy County Fair in Morris from July 3-7 and the Heart of Illinois Fair in Peoria from July 16-20.
For those who can’t get enough fair fun, the season continues into late summer and early fall. The Sandwich Fair in DeKalb County runs from September 4-8, offering one of the last chances to enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of an Illinois county fair in 2024. These events showcase local agriculture, provide family-friendly entertainment, and celebrate the unique character of each county.
Overview of 2024 Illinois County Fair Dates
County fairs in Illinois take place throughout the summer and early fall of 2024. Many fairs feature livestock shows, carnival rides, live music, and local food. Dates vary by county, with some fairs lasting less than a week and others running for over two weeks.
Schedule by County
Several Illinois counties have announced their fair dates for 2024:
- Grundy County Fair: July 3-7 in Morris
- Hamilton County Fair: June 8-15 in McLeansboro
- Hancock County Fair: July 17-21 in Augusta
- Henry County Fair: June 18-23 in Cambridge
- Stephenson County Fair: July 23-27 in Freeport
The Heart of Illinois Fair in Peoria runs from July 16-20. The Sandwich Fair in DeKalb County is set for September 4-8.
Opening and Closing Days
Most Illinois county fairs open on a Wednesday or Thursday and close on a Sunday. This gives visitors a full weekend to attend.
Some fairs, like Hamilton County’s, last over a week. Others, like Grundy County’s, run for just 5 days. The Stephenson County Fair begins on a Tuesday and ends on a Saturday.
Opening days often feature special events or discounts. Many fairs end with popular attractions like demolition derbies or big-name musical acts on the final weekend.
Table of Events:
| County | Fair Name | Dates | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hamilton County | Hamilton County Fair | June 8-15 | McLeansboro |
| Henry County | Henry County Fair | June 18-23 | Cambridge |
| Grundy County | Grundy County Fair | July 3-7 | Morris |
| Peoria County | Heart of Illinois Fair | July 16-20 | Peoria |
| Hancock County | Hancock County Fair | July 17-21 | Augusta |
| Stephenson County | Stephenson County Fair | July 23-27 | Freeport |
| DeKalb County | Sandwich Fair | September 4-8 | Sandwich |
Planning Your Visit
Getting ready for an Illinois county fair in 2024 takes some preparation. Here’s what you need to know about tickets, attractions, and travel tips.
Ticket Information
County fair ticket prices vary across Illinois. Most fairs offer daily admission and multi-day passes. Adults usually pay $5-$10 per day. Kids under 12 often get in free or at a discount. Some fairs have special days with reduced prices.
Senior citizens and veterans may get free entry on certain days. Check the fair’s website for exact prices and deals. Many fairs offer online ticket sales to avoid lines at the gate.
Some events inside the fair, like concerts or rodeos, may require separate tickets. Buy these in advance if possible, as popular shows can sell out.
Attractions and Events
Illinois county fairs offer a mix of entertainment, agriculture, and fun. Most fairs feature:
- Livestock shows and auctions
- Carnival rides and games
- Live music performances
- Food vendors with local specialties
- Arts and crafts exhibits
- Tractor pulls and demolition derbies
Many fairs host special events like beauty pageants, talent shows, and cooking contests. Check the fair schedule to plan your visit around your favorite activities.
Kids can enjoy petting zoos, face painting, and 4-H displays. For adults, beer gardens and wine tastings are common at larger fairs.
Accommodations and Travel Tips
Plan your stay early if you’re visiting from out of town. Book hotels near the fairgrounds in advance, as they fill up quickly during the fair season.
Parking at the fair can be challenging. Look for off-site lots with shuttle services to avoid traffic. Some fairs offer preferred parking for a fee.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen. Fairs can be hot and involve lots of walking. Bring cash, as not all vendors accept cards.
Check the fair’s rules on outside food and drinks. Many allow you to bring water bottles. Consider bringing a small cooler or backpack for snacks and supplies.
