Good morning, Springfield.

The Illinois State Fair begins its 11-day run today in Springfield with harness racing on a one-mile track and a Twilight Parade at 5:30 from Lincoln Park to the fairgrounds’ main gate—traffic is one-way counterclockwise until the fair ends on August 17.

The theme is Adventure Awaits.

Governor JB Pritzker and First Lady MK Pritzker unveiled the 800-pound butter cow on Wednesday afternoon at the Dairy Building during the Illinois State Fair in Springfield.

Sculpted by Sarah Pratt of Iowa, the butter cow was made using recycled butter from previous fair sculptures.

Last Friday morning, more than 1,000 4-H youth and families gathered at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield to celebrate Ag Day—an event that showcased projects from robotics, engineering, livestock, and nutrition.

University leaders met with community stakeholders at a breakfast on the Director’s Lawn—underscoring their commitment to youth development and agricultural education.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Illinois announced that after-school programs will be offered at several locations in Springfield and Jacksonville as the organization faces funding challenges without much federal grant money.

Registration in Springfield is next Thursday, August 14 from noon to 4 p.m. at the Central Unit office on 15th Street — families can sign up for programs starting next term.

The Illinois State Fair starts today and offers a daily story time session from 2-3 p.m. at the Sensory Station in the Emmerson Building in partnership with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library—this program will also mail free books to children under five.

The Illinois EPA will host a household hazardous waste collection event at Chamberlain Park, 319 McCreery Ave, on September 27th from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Residents must pre-register and bring items such as chemical cleaners, oil-based paints, antifreeze, and motor oil—items like latex paint, explosives, propane tanks, fire extinguishers, and smoke detectors will not be accepted.

Camping fans can get a free night when they pay for one at any state park using coupons from the Illinois and Du Quoin state fairs to mark IDNR's 100th anniversary.

The offer, limited to 100 coupons daily until Dec. 31, 2025, must be picked up in person — it does not cover extra campsite costs —.

The Black Crowes Live Performance

8 PM — Illinois State Fairground — Ticket prices vary — Experience the raw energy of The Black Crowes in an electrifying rock & roll show.

Megan Moroney Concert

8 p.m. — Illinois State Fair Grandstand — $47-$122 — Critically acclaimed country artist Megan Moroney performs hits from her latest album Am I Okay?.

Snoop Dogg Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Illinois State Fairground — Requires Pre-Show Party and Concert ticket — Enjoy an exclusive pre-show party before Snoop Dogg takes the stage.

Ask a Library Techie

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Lincoln Library — Free entry — Get one-on-one tech assistance with your devices from knowledgeable staff members.

Def Leppard Concert

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Illinois State Fairground — Ticket prices vary — Rock out with the legendary British heavy metal band known for their iconic anthems and powerful performances.

Vachel Lindsay Home Guided Tour

9:45-10:15 a.m. — Vachel Lindsay Home State Historic Site — Free entry — Explore the legacy of poet Vachel Lindsay with art displays and a chance to win his collected works.

Balloons Over 66 5K

8 AM – 12 PM — Lincoln Community High School — Registration required — Enjoy a morning 5K run with friends and family in a vibrant community setting.

Springfield Virtual Job Fair

4-6 p.m. — Crowne Plaza Springfield – Convention Ctr by IHG — Free registration — Connect with employers and get AI matched for interviews in a virtual setting.

Healing Arts Festival

2-10 p.m. — Buzz Bomb Brewing Co — Free entry — Experience a vibrant community gathering featuring live music, healthy food, and local art.

Illinois Prairie Pastel Society 'Pastel Play' Member Show

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Athens Municipal Library — Free entry — Explore vibrant pastel artworks during this engaging member exhibition.