The Du Quoin State Fair, a gem in the summer calendar of Illinois, is offering a wallet-friendly experience that's hard to pass up. With a lineup bursting at the seams with free entertainment, families can take a day out from August 22 through September 1 without having to worry about the extra financial pinch, according to a recent announcement. Jerry Costello II, the Illinois Department of Agriculture Director, was keen on pointing out the fair's affordability amidst economic belt-tightening, stating, "Expanding free entertainment options keeps the fair affordable, allowing families to make memories that last a lifetime."
Under the shade of the big entertainment tent, beats and tunes are set to entertain visitors of all stripes, while offering a break from summer's swelter. And for those feeling peckish, there's ample seating to dig into your fair food favorites. Among the host of free attractions to catch is Ryan Pierce, who will showcase his metal mastery in a blacksmith demonstration. Fairgoers can marvel at his knife smithing skills, and even take a piece of his work home. If bubbles and music are more your scene, the Bubble Bus will have you swimming in a foam-filled reverie, twice on Saturdays no less. Not to forget the athletically inclined pups that will be taking a leap into DockDogs aquatic show, with performances and competitions set to take place daily.
As the fair gears up for fun, variety remains the spice of Du Quoin, with events catering to every possible palate. A kaleidoscope of free activities from art sessions at Wander Community Arts to mechanical bulls and car shows on the final Sunday, ensures that every walk of fairgoer can find something to enjoy. Even the youngest agriculturalists can get their hands dirty at the Helping Hands exhibit, learning about farm life from the ground up. And let's not overlook the racers of a very different kind; the Ducky Derby promises a quacking finish as ducks race across the Expo Hall Lake to support Special Olympics.
For the art aficionados and fans of the fantastical, there's Nathan's Spray Monay, tagged as the "Rattle Can Ninja of the Midwest," a man whose aerosol art whipped up in five-minute frenzies, promises to leave crowds awestruck. Big shoes will be filled literally, as Polka Dot Entertainment strides above the crowds on stilts. Their comedy magic show, not advised for Home Depot-style DIY replication, is tagged as hilarious. Shopping enthusiasts will find their haven at The Rusty Truck Vintage Market, featuring local wares to support small businesses. The market will be open for a limited time during the fair with hours stretching into the warm summer nights.
The Du Quoin State Fair isn't just about the bustle, it's a celebration of community and creativity. Illustrious balloon artists like Poppin Penelope and daredevils, such as Peter's One-Man Danger Circus Spectacular, promise to leave the young and old alike with stories to tell for years to come. And, for those who want to take a piece of the fair's spirit home, Erin Scronce will sketch out caricatures with a local flare. All the fun comes with the added bonus that exploring the fairgrounds won't cost you a dime in admission, though parking is a modest fare, free only on opening day and reasonably priced thereafter. For more information you can travel to the fair's official website and plan your end-of-summer bank account-friendly outing.
