Illinois State Fair, DuQuoin State Fair Canceled for 2020

Governor J.B. Pritzker is issuing an Executive Order cancelling the 2020 Illinois State Fair and DuQuoin State Fair.

The governor said, "This is the right choice based on guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health; we have to prioritize keeping our people safe."

Illinois State Fair Manager Kevin Gordon talked about the reasons for the cancellation with the focus on his fair in Springfield...

Due to the cancellations of the fairs, the Illinois Department of Agriculture will host a Junior Livestock Expo in Springfield in September, for Illinois exhibitors ages 8 to 21 to show their animals. The 4-H General Project Show will take place virtually, with premiums and ribbons to be distributed by the Ag Department. Details regarding entry and operations are forthcoming.

The State Fair was previously cancelled from 1942 to 1945 due to World War II, as the fairgrounds were used as a US Army Airforce supply depot. The Fair was also cancelled in 1862 due to the Civil War and was replaced in 1893 by the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

DuQuoin State Fair Manager Josh Gross said, "We know the DuQuoin State Fair is a longstanding tradition in Southern Illinois and it's hard to fathom that it won't be taking place, but our first priority is to keep the citizens of Southern Illinois safe. While this year's fair will not take place, our grounds will be open for camping allowing for memories to still be made on the grounds this summer."

If you have purchased an Illinois State Fair mega pass, admission booklet or parking pass, contact the State Fair office at 217-782-6661 or email agr.fairinfo@illinois.gov.