The Illinois State Fair is set to fill The Arena with fan favorites as it announces its 2025 event lineup. If an adrenaline fix is what you're after, prepare to catch monsters on wheels as the Monsters of Destruction Monster Truck Show takes the stage on Thursday, August 7. According to the Illinois.gov announcement, adult tickets are priced at $25 in advance and $30 on the day of the event, with reduced rates for kids. But that's not all, you'll have the chance to actually ride one of these behemoths, with ticket upgrades available on the day of the show.
In a bid to double the fun for visitors, the fair is offering a special parking deal on the day of the Monster Truck event. Anyone paying to park on Thursday, August 7, can use their parking pass to park freely on a return visit the following Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. For rodeo enthusiasts, The Arena makes room for bull riding and other thrilling rodeo events on Saturday, August 9, with tickets conveniently set at $10 for adults and a mere $5 for kids 12 and under.
No state fair is complete without the gritty growl of engines at the tractor pull, and this year is no exception. The Illinois Tractor Pulling Association (ITPA) gears up to return for three nights of competitive pulling from August 11-13, with tickets also available at a cost-effective $10 for adults and $5 for kids. But if you're looking to witness destruction derby-style, wait until Saturday, August 16. That's when the Demolition Derby crashes into The Arena, promising a night where drivers vie to outlast each other until a single champion emerges from the automotive carnage. Adult tickets for this smashing event are set at $25, while kids can snag a spot for the low price of $5.
"As always, we're excited to fill this outdoor space with a solid lineup of family friendly entertainment during the Illinois State Fair," said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. Meanwhile, Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark highlighted the traditions the events represent, saying, "The events featured in The Arena represent traditions for the Illinois State Fair as well as traditions for families throughout the state, my own included," she told the Illinois Government News Network. Patrons are encouraged to purchase tickets through Ticketmaster well ahead of the fair to avoid the lines. The 2025 Illinois State Fair will be running from August 7 through August 17 in Springfield. Stay connected for updates by following their Facebook and Instagram accounts.
