The Illinois State Fair Grounds is where the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service office (not seen) is located, in Springfield, IL, on Nov. 2, 2011. USDA Photo by Lance Cheung.

Illinois State Fair Announces Updated Security Measures

By Greg Halbleib Jul 28, 2025 | 5:10 AM

The Illinois State Fair has announced updated security measures for this year’s event.

Prohibited items include firearms, including concealed carry; weapons; illegal substances; drones; laser pointers; and fireworks and flammable materials.

Metal detectors will be in place at all grandstand entrances and all bags will be checked. Backpacks, duffel bags and bags or purses larger than 14 by 8 inches will be prohibited at the grandstand.

More information is on the Illinois State Fair website. This year’s fair runs August 7 through 17.