Eleven Days Of Fairground FeverMost county fairs wrap up in a long weekend, but the Illinois State Fair plays by its own rules. The fair officially opens its gates (Aug 8 – 18) at the Illinois State Fairgrounds located at 801 E Sangamon Ave, Springfield, Illinois 62706. Food On A Stick And Unique Fair EatsFair food is its own food group, and the Illinois State Fair takes that philosophy seriously. The Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66 ExperienceOne of the more distinctive corners of the fairgrounds is the Illinois State Fairgrounds Route 66 Experience, a walkable attraction that brings the highway’s history to life through recreated scenes and displays. Rides, Midway Games, And Family FunThe midway at the Illinois State Fair is a sensory overload in the best possible way.