SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois State Fair Box Office officially opens today, June 1, giving fairgoers their first opportunity to purchase concert, Arena, and other Grandstand event tickets in person or over the phone for the 2026 Illinois State Fair.
The Box Office, located on the first floor of the Grandstand, will be open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
To celebrate opening day, anyone who purchases a ticket through the Box Office on June 1, either in person or by phone, will be entered for a chance to win one free admission ticket and one free parking pass, making admission into the fair free! A total of 66 winners will be selected in honor of the 100th anniversary of Route 66.
Additionally, 100 tickets for the highly anticipated Ella Langley concert will be released exclusively through the Box Office and will not be available through Ticketmaster. These tickets can only be purchased in person or over the phone while supplies last. Limit two tickets per person/transaction.
“Opening the Box Office is always an exciting milestone because it means the Illinois State Fair is right around the corner,” said Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II. “This year, we wanted to give fairgoers even more reasons to celebrate by offering exclusive concert tickets and the chance to win free admission and parking as we kick off another great Fair season.”
Discounted Mega Passes are available for purchase in the Emmerson Building or online and give fairgoers unlimited access to all the thrilling rides in the Carnival Midway and Adventure Village. Grab a Mega Pass for $80 or a Jumbo Pass (which includes the Giant Slide) for $90 through July 31. Beginning August 1, the price will increase $20 on both passes.
For guests looking to save on admission, Admission Bundles are available for $45 and include 11 any-day admissions to the Fair. Seasonal Infield Parking Passes can also be purchased for $40 and provide parking access on the fairgrounds for all 11 days of the Fair.
“The Box Office opening is one of the best opportunities for fairgoers to lock in great deals before the Fair begins,” said Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark. “From ride passes and admission bundles to concerts and racing events, there are so many ways for families to plan ahead and save money.”
Can’t make it out to the box office? Grandstand and arena tickets are available online via Ticketmaster. Fairgoers are reminded to beware of scams. The only official online ticket source for Illinois State Fair concerts and events is Ticketmaster. Tickets purchased from third-party sellers may be invalid, and the Illinois State Fair cannot assist with issues related to outside purchases.
Mark your calendars for the 2026 Illinois State Fair, August 13 through August 23 in Springfield.
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