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Illinois State Fair cow sculpted out of butter next to Prairie Farms sign.

Illinois State Fair

More than 630,000 fairgoers will have the opportunity to experience dairy in new, fun ways during the Illinois State Fair! In the Dairy Building, interactive exhibits show attendees how dairy farmers care for their cows, communities, and the planet. As they wind their way through the building, they’ll discover this year’s Butter Cow, an unofficial icon of the fair since the 1920s. Finally, before leaving to find their next fair adventures, attendees will visit the Dairy Goodness Bar to enjoy the newest Flavor of the Fair, award-winning cream puffs, and more.

The Illinois State Fair has been celebrated almost every year since 1853. This year, the fair runs August 7-17, 2025. More information about the fair can be learned here.

Address:

Illinois State Fairgrounds 
801 Sangamon Avenue 
Springfield, IL 62706 

The Dairy Building is located on Central Avenue, next to the Illinois Fire Museum, and is open daily from 9 AM – 8 PM. Download a map of the fair here.