08/07/2026
Check out the details for this year’s Illinois State Fair
🎟️ Headed to the Grandstand during the Fair? Read this before you go.🤠🎶🏁
👜 BAG POLICY
NEW THIS YEAR: The Grandstand has a clear bag policy, and bags larger than 14” x 8” are not permitted. Exceptions are made for diaper bags and medical bags, which may be searched.
🚨 GRANDSTAND SECURITY
All Grandstand entrances will have metal detectors and bag checks.
If you leave the Grandstand, you will need to go through security again before re-entering.
🚫 PROHIBITED ITEMS
Fi****ms and other weapons, illegal substances, laser pointers, drones, air horns and similar noise makers are prohibited throughout the Fairgrounds. Prohibited items found after entry will be confiscated and discarded.
🅿️ PARKING
General parking is available at Gates 4, 6, 7, 8 and 11.
Gate 6 (infield) and Gate 7 are closest to the Grandstand.
Accessible parking: Gates 4 and 11, with complimentary tram service until 8 p.m.
Parking: $5 per vehicle, per day
Rideshare drop-off: Main Gate on the south side of the Fairgrounds
🍔 FOOD & BEVERAGES
Grandstand concession stands are cashless.
Beverages purchased inside will be opened at purchase.
Drinks purchased on the track will be served in plastic cups.
Bottles, cans, sealed containers and outside beverage containers—including reusable cups—are not permitted inside the Grandstand.
Food purchased elsewhere on the Fairgrounds may be brought into the Grandstand.
🎉 PARTY TENT
Pre-Show Party Tent guests must have both a valid concert ticket AND a Pre-Show Party Tent ticket. Both will be scanned upon entry.
Party Tent entrance: Gate 6 (infield)
The Party Tent closes when concert gates open, generally one hour before showtime.
After the Party Tent closes, guests must enter the concert venue and cannot re-enter the Party Tent.
📱 TICKETS
Using mobile tickets? Download your tickets from the Ticketmaster app before arriving at the Fairgrounds. This can help avoid delays at the gate and provide a smoother entry experience.
👉 Save this post and share it with your concert crew!
For the complete list of Grandstand policies and prohibited items, visit StateFair.Illinois.gov.
We’ll see you at the Grandstand! 🎶🏁🤠
