New Berlin, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Sangamon County Fair returns Wednesday, bringing five days of agriculture, entertainment, rides and family activities to the fairgrounds.
While many visitors come for the carnival rides, grandstand events and fair food, organizers say the fair’s agricultural roots remain at the heart of the annual event.
Jessie Burrell, who helps organize and promote the fair, said the event provides valuable opportunities for young people involved in agriculture.
“The fair is a great opportunity, especially for our youth who are being raised in agriculture,” Burrell said, on the WTAX Morning Newswatch. “They come and bring their livestock and show their livestock. It’s a great opportunity for leadership building, learning to follow through and not quit, raising those projects from start to finish and then bringing them to show everyone the fruits of their labor.”
In addition to livestock competitions, the fair features exhibits showcasing photography, culinary arts, textiles, collections and other creative projects for both youth and adults.
Livestock judging and exhibit drop-offs began Tuesday as participants prepared for the official start of the fair. Animal shows and competitions will continue throughout the week.
Burrell encouraged fairgoers to take time to explore the barns and exhibit buildings in addition to the headline attractions.
“There’s really a lot more that goes into the fair than just those flashy entertainment pieces,” she said.
The fair’s grandstand schedule includes Full Throttle Monster Trucks on Thursday night, an event that debuted last year and quickly became a favorite among families. Burrell called it an affordable night of entertainment, with special pricing available for children.
Country music fans can look forward to Friday night’s concert featuring Scotty McCreery and Josh Turner.
“We are super excited about it,” Burrell said. “We’re looking forward to a busy, fun, music-filled night.”
The Sangamon County Fair Rodeo, presented by Rogue Rodeo of Iowa, takes place Saturday. Organizers recommend purchasing tickets in advance because the event regularly sells out.
The fair wraps up Sunday with the demolition derby, another longtime crowd favorite.
Other featured events include the Sangamon County Fair Queen Pageant on Wednesday evening. Reigning Fair Queen Paige Burton will help welcome attendees throughout the week.
Carnival wristbands are available for $30 per day and allow unlimited rides during operating hours. Scheduled ride breaks are posted online.
General admission to the fair is $5 per person. Parking on the fairgrounds costs $10, while free parking is available at the nearby school north of the fairgrounds.
A complete schedule of events, livestock shows and ticket information is available at sangcofair.com.
