Is there any other experience quite as midwestern as the county fair? This is your chance to celebrate the people who keep your town going. From sampling produce to meeting some adorable animals, these annual events give you the perfect way to reconnect with your community! As a Springfield family photographer, you can bet a trip to the fair is always on my schedule. If you are looking for the best county fairs in Illinois, here are the ones I think you need to visit!
318 W Birch St. New Berlin, Illinois 62670
The Sangamon County Fair happens each June in New Berlin, Illinois! For five days, you will get the chance to listen to some live music, check out interactive exhibits, judge livestock, and watch a talent show. Over at the carnival section, you can enjoy gravity-defying rides and giant slides. They also offer sensory-friendly hours on Wednesday.

18450 Fairgrounds, Petersburg, Illinois 62675
The Menard County Fair is a proud Petersburg, Illinois tradition that kicks off in the middle of each July! They offer fun experiences for people of all ages with live music, kids’ exhibits, and a demolition derby. They even offer camping grounds for those who want to turn this into a vacation. Get ready for delicious food and unforgettable memories as you come out and celebrate!
1601 West Northmoor Rd, Peoria, Illinois 61614
The Heart of Illinois Fair happens in the middle of July in Peoria. This is the best way to celebrate our amazing state! This week-long event gives you everything you could ever want out of a fair. You’ll get to meet some animals over at the petting zoo, ride carnival rides, see a live performance, and enjoy all the fried food your stomach can handle!
1302 N Coler Ave, Urbana, Illinois 61803
The Champaign County Fair is an annual tradition that dates all the way back to the 1850s, when Illinois farmers would spend a day showing off their best livestock. The fair has evolved quite a bit since then, keeping the cattle while adding in tractor contests, monster trucks, carnival rides, and delicious, locally-made food!

1106 Interstate Dr, Bloomington, Illinois 61705
The McLean County Fair is the largest county 4-H fair in the entire world! It is a must-visit for everyone around the Bloomington-Normal area. You can swing by during the last week of July and create some memories you will never forget. In addition to live performances and fantastic food, they offer a horse show, monster trucks, carnival rides, STEAM day, and markets from local makers.
If you have been looking for the best way to celebrate this state, I just know you are going to make these county fairs in Illinois your new family tradition. Add them to your calendar so you don’t miss a single moment.
Are you looking for more ways to make memories with your family? Then I would love to chat! I am a Springfield family photographer, and I adore working with parents to help them document every magical moment together. If you would like to learn more about scheduling a session, you can send me a message so we can connect!