Published on August 12, 2026 2:45 pm
Last Updated on August 12, 2026 2:45 pm
Visitors to Conservation World during the 2026 Illinois State Fair will have an opportunity to record their stories, memories and hopes for the nation for Illinois Voices 250, part of Illinois’ ongoing celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
Illinois America 250 will host an interactive celebration in the Conservation World gazebo during the Illinois State Fair. Hours and dates are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 13-16 and Aug. 21-23. The gazebo is centrally located near the amphitheater.
Fairgoers can participate in games, create commemorative 250th-anniversary plates, explore resources for educators and librarians, and receive a limited-edition 250th Commemorative Passport to Illinois while supplies last.
As part of the celebration, Illinois Voices 250 will invite fairgoers to sit down with a friend or family member and record a meaningful conversation about the stories, memories and hopes that have shaped their lives. Participants will be encouraged to discuss questions such as:
- What family story do you want future generations to remember?
- When have you felt most proud or most conflicted about this country?
- What kind of future do you hope to see by America’s 300th anniversary?
Recorded conversations will become part of a special collection at the American Folklife Center at the U.S. Library of Congress, helping preserve the experiences and perspectives of Illinoisans for future generations.
“We’re inviting folks to visit the gazebo in Conservation World and bring someone they care about,” said Gabrielle Lyon, chair of the Illinois America 250 Commission. “This is a unique chance for everyday Illinoisans to share the stories that matter in their lives and for those stories to be preserved for future generations.”
Illinois Voices 250 is presented by the Illinois America 250 Commission in partnership with Illinois Humanities and StoryCorps Studios. It’s the most expansive effort yet to ensure Illinois’ commemoration of the nation’s birthday is inclusive, accessible and statewide.
The Illinois America 250 Commission was established by state law to organize an inclusive, statewide celebration that uplifts local stories, highlights significant places and programs, and showcases how Illinoisans bring to life the ideals of the Declaration. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources, which manages state historic sites and the Illinois State Museum, provides administrative support to the commission.
For more information about Illinois America 250 and opportunities to participate, visit IL250.org.
