The Illinois State Fair is gearing up for an exciting season as the box office opens its doors for in-person ticket purchases. Beginning last Thursday, June 1, fairgoers can now secure their grandstand tickets directly from the box office located on the fairgrounds. Operating hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, with a special Saturday opening on August 5th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For added convenience, tickets can also be purchased online via www.ticketmaster.com.
The box office offers an array of tickets, including those for popular events like the ISF Bares, Broncs and Bulls rodeo, the ISF Championship Demolition Derby, and the ITPA Truck & Tractor Pulls, presented by the Illinois Soybean Association.
Ron Kindred, Vice Chair of the Illinois Soybean Association, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "The Illinois State Fair combines fun and education in one place. We are thrilled to provide the opportunity for people to enjoy the tractor pull, where many tractors will be using biodiesel blends made with soybean oil from Illinois farms."
To make the fair experience even more accessible, discounted Mega Passes are available for purchase both at the Emmerson Building and online. Until July 31, fair enthusiasts can snag a Mega Pass for $70 or opt for the Jumbo Pass at $80, which includes access to the Giant Slide. However, starting from August 1, both pass prices will increase by $20.
For those looking for affordable admission options, the Admission Bargain Book is a steal. Priced at just $45, this book grants eleven any-day admissions to the 2023 Illinois State Fair. Additionally, fairgoers can secure a Seasonal Infield Parking Pass for $40, providing the convenience of parking on the infield throughout the fair's eleven-day duration.
Concert enthusiasts can also look forward to an impressive lineup at the grandstand. Notable performances include Old Dominion with a special guest on Friday, August 11, and Alanis Morissette on Sunday, August 13. Other acts include REO Speedwagon on Tuesday, August 15, Alter Bridge with Mammoth WVH on Wednesday, August 16, Tim McGraw with Landon Parker on Thursday, August 17, Maren Morris on Saturday, August 19, and Nelly with Ashanti & Ja Rule on Sunday, August 20. Ticket prices vary depending on the seating tier, ranging from $25 to $150, offering options for all budget ranges.