McHenry Times

The Illinois State Fair will soon be underway, and there’s plenty of time to explore before the fair wraps up on Aug. 20. In an Aug. 8 Facebook post, Rep. Steve Reick shared information about this year’s fair with his constituents.

"The Illinois State Fair kicks off on Aug. 10 and features some big names for the Grandstand lineup this year," he wrote. "You can always contact my office for additional information.”

The Illinois State Fair runs until Aug. 20. There are a variety of events scheduled, from auto races to live entertainment (some free, some ticketed), carnival rides and a paint night experience. Fair admission is available at a discounted rate of $45 for an 11-admission booklet or $30 for a senior “convenience” admissions booklet with 10 admissions. A seasonal parking permit is $40. You can find information about ticket prices for grandstand concerts with Old Dominion, Alter Bridge, Tim McGraw and Alanis Morrissette, to name a few, on the fair website.

The Illinois State Fair is at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., and the fairgrounds are open from 7 a.m. to midnight for the duration, according to EnjoyIllinois.com. Attractions other than live music include the traditional butter cow (made of 500 pounds of unsalted butter and carved by hand); the Route 66 Experience, which takes you from Chicago to the Chains of Rocks Bridge, as well as the Neon Sign Park; and Thrillville, which offers death-defying stunts and a jetpack show. Not all the entertainment will cost you money – with music, Zoo Lady Face Painting and a variety of other exhibits.

For individuals who need a fair experience with a little less chaos, the Sensory Friendly Fair Initiative is back. The Illinois State Fair has two new initiatives to bring accessibility and inclusivity for those who need support to attend due to sensory processing disorders. The first is a step-by-step guide called “A Day at the Illinois State Fair, A Social Story." These efforts go beyond helping attendees to plan their visit. There are sensory-friendly zones and events, like the silent dance party from 10 a.m. to noon on the Grand Central Stage, as well as amusement rides available for those with special needs at the Carnival Midway and Adventure Village.

Reick was first elected to the Illinois House in 2016. A Republican, his legislative experience includes serving on the Labor & Commerce and Revenue & Finance Committees. Reick is a state representative who resides in Woodstock, according to the Illinois House.