Daily Public Schedule: Thursday, August 13, 2026

What: Governor Pritzker will give remarks and officially kick off the 2026 Illinois State Fair with the ribbon cutting ceremony.

When: 10:00 AM

Where: Main Gate, Illinois State Fairground

​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 801 E Sangamon Ave, Springfield

Watch: www.illinois.gov/livevideo

Note: There will be a press availability.

Media RSVP: Please submit an RSVP through the Governor’s Office form linked here to attend this event or any of the events listed below.

What: Governor Pritzker will attend the opening of tents ceremony for the 2026 Illinois State Fair.

When: 10:45 AM

Where: Governor’s Tent, Illinois State Fairground

​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 801 E Sangamon Ave, Springfield

Note: No additional press availability.

What: Governor Pritzker will participate in the Conservation World ribbon cutting ceremony.

When: 11:15 AM

Where: Conservation World, Illinois State Fairground

​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 801 E Sangamon Ave, Springfield

Watch: www.illinois.gov/livevideo

Note: No additional press availability.

What: Governor Pritzker will present the “County Fair Person of the Year” Award at the County Fair Luncheon.

When: 11:30 AM

Where: Director’s Lawn, Illinois State Fairground

​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 801 E Sangamon Ave, ​ Springfield

Watch: www.illinois.gov/livevideo

Note: No additional press availability.

What: Governor Pritzker will take photos with the 2026 County Fair Queens.

When: 12:00 PM

Where: Director’s Lawn, Illinois State Fairground

​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ 801 E Sangamon Ave, ​ Springfield

Note: No additional press availability.