Macon Reporter

Senator Erica Harriss highlighted the upcoming Illinois State Fair in a June 25 Facebook post, noting that "there's something everyone can enjoy" for attendees during the 10-day event.

"The Illinois State Fair will be open this year August 8th through August 18th," said Harriss, Illinois State Senator (R), according to Facebook. "From delicious fair food, carnival rides, and daily live entertainment, there's something everyone can enjoy."

In her Facebook post, Senator Harriss directed her constituents and followers to the website for the Illinois State Fair to check out the daily schedules with changing themes throughout the week.

Screenshot of Sen. Erica Harriss' June 24 Facebook post | Senator Erica Harriss' Facebook page

The fair starts with County Fair and Horse Racing Day on Thursday, Aug. 8, with the gates opening at 7 a.m. The Twilight Parade begins at 5:30 p.m. Kids’ Day is Saturday, Aug. 10, and features special events and programs for children of all ages. Sunday is Veterans and Gold Star Families Day, with free admission for veterans and their family members, as well as discounted ride passes. A veterans’ parade is also scheduled. For those looking for a less expensive outing, Tuesday, Aug. 13 is Twosday, when adults and seniors get discounted admission, and all rides are $2 each. Wednesday, Aug. 14 is Governor’s Day, followed by Republican Day.

Children under 12 get into the Illinois State Fair for free, while adult admission is $10 for Friday and Saturday; seniors get in for $3. A seasonal parking pass is $40 or daily parking is $5 per day. A $45 admission booklet can get adults in any day, with 11 admissions per booklet. The senior admission booklet is $30 and includes 10 any-day senior admissions.

Live music at the Grandstands starts Friday, Aug. 9 with Keith Urban and Mackenzie Porter; Motley Crue performs on Aug. 10, and there’s music every night of the fair. Lil Wayne is scheduled to perform on Aug. 14, and the Jonas Brothers will be on stage on the 15th. The Smashing Pumpkins and PVRIS perform on Aug. 16, followed by Miranda Lambert on Saturday, Aug. 17 after the USAC Bettenhausen 100 race.

Harriss has served the state’s 56th Senate District since 2023. She owns a small business with experience in marketing and communications; she volunteers with local charity organizations and leads youth groups at Metro Community Church. She also served as a member of the Madison County Board for six years representing its 26th District. She holds a degree in speech communication/public relations from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and is an alumna of Edwardsville High School.