For generations The Du Quoin State Fair has dazzled Southern Illinois and beyond. It’s a perfect balance of nostalgia and new experiences. At the Du Quoin State Fair, we relish the opportunity to provide fairgoers the option to explore the familiar and discover the fun they didn’t know they would have. Although the fair presents a broad spectrum of attractions, at the very foundation of this annual celebration is agriculture. Whether it be viewing a livestock show or taking a stroll thru our Thank-A-Farmer exhibit, educating fairgoers, especially young people on the critical relationship between our great state and agriculture is a tradition we at the fair will continue to uphold.
With great pride we as a Du Quoin State Fair staff and greater Southern Illinois community welcome everyone this year to come and make a lasting memory.
We’ll see you at The Fair.
Luke Davison State Fair Manager
2024 Du Quoin State Fair Daily Schedule Preview
Fairgrounds Open:
Weekdays: 4:00 p.m. to Midnight Weekends: Noon to Midnight Labor Day: Noon to 9:00 pm
Agriculture Day presented by Modern Woodmen of America
Tuesday, August 27
Republican Day
Wednesday, August 28
Senior Day
Thursday, August 29
Sponsor Appreciation Day presented by Pepsi Mid-America
Friday, August 30
Illinois Tourism Day presented by FOX 23
Saturday, August 31
SIU/College Day / Coal Heritage Day presented by WPSD TV-6
Sunday, September 1 - First Responders Day
(Firefighters, Police Officers, EMTs who show badge will receive free admission.)
Monday, September 2
Labor Day
Ducky Derby at the Du Quoin State Fair
Above: Duck Ambassador Jack Langley and the Ducky Derby’s mascot, Splash, exit their helicopter and make their way to the derby’s opening ceremony.
Brenna Asbury performs a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner. Photo by Holden Huntley. Below: Thousands of duck make their descent into the lake, each one competing for first place.
Ducky Derby Returns to the Du Quoin State Fair
On September 1, the 2024 Southern Illinois Ducky Derby Dash to benefit Special Olympics Illinois race day begins at 1pm and the ducks begin their race at 3pm.
Prior to the duck race, volunteers come together and place numbered tags on the bottom of every duck that plans to race. Each number corresponds to someone who has adopted a duck. The ducks are carried to the water and then dumped in at the start of the race!
You do not have to be present to win, but it’s a lot of fun to attend Race Day! There may also be pop up prizes awarded for anyone who purchases a Quack Pack, a Flock of Ducks or a Derby Donor package.
All activities, entertainment, and give-a-ways are free on Race Day. However, to adopt a duck the cost is $5.
Cost of Ducks:
Single duck: $5
Quack Pack (6 ducks for the price of 5): $25
Quacker’s Dozen (12 ducks for the price of 10): $50
Flock of Ducks (Get 24 ducks in the race for the price of 20) $100.00
Ducky Derby Donor (Get 60 ducks in the race for the price of 50) $250.00
Other packages available online.
You can adopt ducks until approximately 2:30 p.m. (or when ducks sell out) on Race Day at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds. Online adoptions will remain open until 2pm. (or sooner depending on sales).
Visit DUCKYDERBYDASH.COM for detailed information.
208 E. Main St. Du Quoin
We are a non-profit community art studio providing free and low-cost art activities for kids of all ages!
Perry County Counseling Center
Enjoy theDu Quoin State Fair! arts & crafts classes birthdays field trips
Providing services in Perry County since 1971.
• Outpatient mental health and substance use disorder treatment from ages 5 and older.
• DUI evaluations and Risk education classes as well as DUI groups.
• Supported employment program that assists individuals to become employed.
• Case management program that assists clients with every day needs.
• Supervised residential program that allows individuals to “step down” from a recent hospitalization helping them acclimate back into independent living.
• Supported residential program that assists individuals living independently, but still requiring some assistance.
• Prevention Specialist in Perry County schools educating our youth about substance use disorder.
• We offer telehealth services!
&
8 - 4
are a 24 hour crisis hotline, always answered by a person, not a machine. We accept all MCO’s, Medicaid & most private insurance companies. We offer a sliding fee scale for Perry County residents needing mental health treatment and for all Illinois residents needing substance use disorder treatment that are not covered by any type of Medicaid or insurance.
Du Quoin State Fair Twilight Parade - “It’s Showtime”
Each year, the Du Quoin State Fair holds a Twilight Parade to proudly announce the opening of the annual showcase in Du Quoin. The 2024 parade will be held on Friday, August 23rd at 6pm.
The annual Twilight Parade will be self-contained on fairgrounds property. The staging area for the parade will take place on Executive Drive, just south of the mile track, just inside Gate 8 off of Bob Green Drive. The parade will step off from the south end of Grandstand Avenue and make its way to Main Street. From there the parade will turn west on Main Street and continue to Pacer Avenue. The parade will turn south onto Pacer and exit Gate 6 back on to Bob Green Avenue.
There is something for both young and old in the parade – from marchers to riders on horseback and you too can be a part of the fun. The Du Quoin State Fair is looking for groups who are interested in participating in the parade. This year’s theme is “It’s Showtime”.
Du Quoin State Fair Twilight Parade Route
“45 years’ experience”
• Free Computerized Estimates • Free Local Pick-Up & Delivery
• Insurance Work Welcomed • Paintless Dent Removal
• Fully Licensed and Insured 1244 S. Washington • Du Quoin 542-8468
Hours: 8:30 am - 5 pm Mon-Fri
Admission Information
FaIrground openS:
Weekdays: 11 am – Midnight
Weekends: 10 am – Midnight Labor day: 10 am – 10 pm
Parking
Main parking Lot (rt. 14 entrance) ................................
$10 daily
gate 1 parking Lot (u.S. 51 entrance) ........................... $15 daily
gate 4 parking Lot (Jackson St. entrance) ................... $10 daily
ChILd under 36 InCheS MuSt be rIdden WIth a paYIng aduLt
4 pm Show-Me Safari petting Zoo Expo Drive
5 pm Foam Zone
Grandstand North lawn
5 – 10 pm the rusty truck vintage Market
1st & 2nd Heat Bldgs
5 pm nathan’s Spray Monay
Free Entertainment Tent
5:30 pm ribbon Cutting Grandstand
6 pm twilight parade Inside fairgrounds
Marching band Contest Inside fairgrounds
6:30 pm pro Wrestling epic (following parade)
Midway (across from beer tent) dirtwater Fox
RollnUp Beer Tent Stage
nathan’s Spray Monay
Free Entertainment Tent
7 pm Foam Zone
Grandstand North lawn
8 pm nathan’s Spray Monay
Free Entertainment Tent
9 pm Foam Zone
Grandstand North lawn
Jefferson Starship
RollnUp Beer Tent Stage
9:30 pm
nathan’s Spray Monay
Free Entertainment Tent
Sunday, August 25 Veterans Day at the Fair
Presented by WSIL-TV3
Tuesday, Aug. 27 Republican Day
Friday, Aug. 30 Illinois
Sunday, September 1 First Responder Day
Monday,
Sept. 4 Labor Day
Du Quoin State Fair Special Events Schedule
Friday, august 23
6:00 pm twilight parade Inside fairgrounds high School Marching band Contest Inside fairgrounds
Saturday, august 24
9:00 am draft horse Show horse arena Jr dairy Show C-bar Land & Cattle Co horse arena
11:00 am 2 tier tray decorating Contest expo hall Stage
12 noon Indian hills Mx/atv Fair races half Mile track
1:00 pm Jr. Swine Showmanship Cattle barn #6
gilt Show following Showmanship Cattle barn #6 back Seat driving Contest north end lot of grandstand
tailgating Cooking Contest expo hall Stage
2:00 pm Meat goats C bar Land & Cattle Co horse arena
2:30 pm Junior kids Mullet Contest Free entertainment tent
4:30 pm beard or Mullet Contest rollnup beer tent
6:00 pm Whippoorwill rodeo horse arena
Sunday, august 25
9 am Mule Show horse arena open dairy Show C-bar Land & Cattle Co horse arena
barrow Show Cattle barn #6
1 pm pigtail/ponytail Contest Free entertainment tent 1:30 pm Smile Contest Free entertainment tent 5 pm not So newlywed Show expo hall Stage 6 pm Whippoorwill rodeo horse arena
Monday, august 26
4:00 pm harness racing pepsi Midamerica Magic Mile
8 am – 3 pm Susan boswell Memorial Sunshine picnic vIp tent #1 all day Cowboy Mounted Shoot horse arena
4:00 pm harness racing pepsi Midamerica Magic Mile 6:00 pm Mystery Sack Cooking Contest expo hall Stage
7:00 pm Itpa truck/tractor pulls half-Mile track
Wednesday, august 28
1 – 3 pm Senior prom expo hall 4 pm harness racing pepsi Midamerica Magic Mile 6 pm 4-h Food Challenge – Magical Fruit pizza. expo hall Stage
thursday, august 29
9 am – 2 pm kids day at the Fair expo hall 6 pm havin’ a ball “With Cheese” expo hall Stage
Friday, august 30
9 am – 2 pm kids day at the Fair expo hall 6 pm From Cow to Cone homemade Ice Cream Contest expo hall
Saturday, august 31
9 am Jr. dairy goat Show Cattle barn #4 9:30 am Jr beef Showmanship
C-bar Land & Cattle Co horse arena 11 am 4-h Food Challenge – basic plain omelet expo hall 1 pm Illinois horse puller’s association horse arena Jr Show breeding beef
C-bar Land & Cattle Co horse arena Quarterback Challenge north end lot of grandstand 2 pm uSaC Silver Crown Magic Mile gorgeous goat Contest open air barns 4 pm Market Lambs
Cattle barn #6 Moo Mo Chug-a-Lug expo hall 6 pm demo derby half-Mile track 7:30 pm team Lip Sync battle Free entertainment tent
Sunday, September 1
8 am – 3 pm Car Show Main Street gate 1 area 9 am open Show dairy goat Cattle barn #4 Jr breeding Sheep Show… Jr Showmanship (following) Cattle barn #6
9:30 am open Show breeding beef C-bar Land and Cattle Co horse arena
10:30 am Lego building Contest expo hall 1 pm pedal pull tractor Competition expo hall
Fair Special EventsSchedule
Monday, September
Du Quoin State Fair Expo Hall Activities
expo hall Information
(open daily 10 am – 9 pm. and air-conditioned!)
this year’s veteran’s day celebration will be held in the expo hall on Sunday, august 25 beginning at 9:00 am.
browse vendor booths for great home improvement and decorating ideas, hand-made items and tasty treats! Join the u of I Master gardeners for pop-up programming on plant propagation, house plant care, snake Id and more.
the Secretary of State’s office will be on-site to renew driver’s license and car registrations while the department of veterans affairs booth will answer questions about veteran’s benefits, services, and resources. Illinois State treasurer, department of transportation, department of Corrections, and Illinois Central railroad will also have displays.
and new this year… poppin’ penelope … gIant one-Woman balloon exhibit … poppin’ penelope’s exhibit starts from nothing and grows into a largerthan-life balloon wonderland. You will want to return every day to see what sprouted overnight. her exhibit defies logic, as one incredible woman creates a balloon display larger than what an entire crew could accomplish in the same amount of time. She will be located inside the expo hall beginning Sunday, august 25.
Illinois products will be have booths set up three days on Fri., aug 30, 5-8 pm, Sat, aug 31, 12 pm-8 pm and Sun, Sept. 1, 1 pm -5 pm there will be more than 20 vendors bringing their free food samples, as well as kettle corn, soaps, lip balm, essential oil products, birdhouses, wood & gourd crafts, honey, jelly, salsa, seasonings, coffee, herbal tea and many more. plus, there will be several wineries on board for wine tasting.
Warehouse
Open-Air Horse Show Arena Events
Horse pulls, horse and mule shows, barrel racing, farm yard follies and rodeos are some of the activities you can watch at the Open Air Horse Show Arena.
Open-Air Horse Show Arena Events Located one block past Expo
Hall
Saturday, august 24
9:00 am …………………………………………………… draft horse
6:00 pm …………………………………...……… Whippoorwill rodeo
Sunday, august 25
9:00 am …………………………………………………… Mule Show
6:00 pm ……………………………………………Whippoorwill rodeo
Monday, august 26
4:30 pm ………………………………………. .. FFa Farmyard Follies
tuesday, august 27 9:30 am – 6:30 pm……………………….Cowboy Mounted Shoot
Saturday, august 31 1:00 pm ……………………………………………….IL horse pullers
Monday, September 2 1:00 am …………………………………. (Ibra) Illinois barrel racing
Serving live music and cold refreshments daily during the fair. Located on Main Street and open weekdays from 4:00pm - Midnight, weekends and Labor Day from Noon to Midnight.
daily events
Friday, august 23
6:30 pm dirtwater Fox
9:00 pm Jefferson Starship
Saturday, august 24
4:30 pm beard and/or Mullet Contest
7:00 pm tba
9:30 pm Murphy 500
Sunday, august 25
4:00 pm radio days
7:30 pm bobby Ford band
Monday, august 26
6:30 pm niki Lanahan band
tuesday, august 27
6:30 pm not guilty band
Wednesday, august 28
6:30 pm diamond dog
thursday, august 29
5:00 pm tba 7:30 pm tba
Friday, august 30
6:30 pm Steel Creek 9:00 pm Craig gerdes band
Saturday, august 31
6:00 pm Zack Fedor and the Long goodbyes
9:00 pm Logan Mize
Sunday, September 1
6:30 pm Cat daddy’o 9:00 pm tba
Monday, September 2
noon Washer tournament
2:30 pm Cornhole tournament
5:00 pm Well hungarians
Du Quoin State Fairgrounds Grandstand Information
purchasing grandstand tickets:
grandstand box office –
Telephone – (618) 542–1535
In Person – located at Du Quoin State Fairgrounds, 655 Executive Drive, Du Quoin, IL 62832
Mail – Mail orders will be accepted once box office has opened for sales.
Please mail orders to:Du Quoin State Fair
Attn: Grandstand Box Office
655 Executive Drive Du Quoin, IL 62832
Ticketmaster
Online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/
Telephone (800) 745–3000
Ticketmaster outlets
Concert tickets DO NOT include parking or admission to the Fair. This must be purchased separately.
All adults and children 3 years and older must have a ticket. Children under the age of two will be allowed entry without a ticket; however, they are required to sit on the lap of a ticket holder.
All patrons must be prepared to produce a valid ticket at the request of State Fair personnel. Retain your tickets until the conclusion of the performance. accessible Seating
Wheelchair accessible seating is limited to 3 tickets (one disabled & two guests)
Seating
The Grandstand consists of bleacher seating and reserved seating up into the Grandstand. Please see map for Tier 1 and Tier 2 locations for bleacher and reserved seating.
*Note – No chairs are permitted.
The Grandstand is an outdoor venue with a roof that covers only the upper seating locations.
Will Call Information and policies
Will Call windows are located inside the Grandstand. Will Call windows will open after 5:00pm the night of the scheduled event.
Will Call tickets will ONLY be released to the person whose name appears on the Will Call envelope or whose name was provided in the sales transaction. No tickets designated for another person will be released without prior authorization. You will be required to submit your Photo ID to claim your tickets; therefore, your ID must match the name on the Will call envelope. Your order confirmation and purchasing credit card may also be required. A signature from the person authorized to pick up the order will be obtained at the time tickets are claimed. If tickets were purchased through the Box Office and a name changes is necessary, please call the Box Office in advance. If tickets were purchased through Ticketmaster, the name change will have to be made through Ticketmaster in advance.
Cameras and recording devices
Still photography, audio and video recording equipment is not allowed in the Grandstand.
Food, drink and artist Merchandise
Drinks, beer and artist merchandise are available for purchase in the Grandstand. Coolers are not allowed.
refunds/exchanges
No exchanges or refunds are permitted.
Weather
All concerts are rain or shine. The decision to cancel a concert due to severe weather is rarely made in advance as weather conditions rapidly change. A concert cancellation is a last resort and made at the very last minute. If the headliner performs there will be no refunds.
** In the event that a concert has been ANNOUNCED by the Fair that it has been cancelled, ticket holders that purchased their tickets via Ticketmaster will be refunded by Ticketmaster back against the card they used to purchase the ticket(s) automatically. Ticket holders that made their ticket purchase through the Box Office, will be required to fill out a Refund form, attach their tickets to the refund form and submit to address on form – a refund check will be mailed to them.
Sign Language Interpreters
Sign language interpreters are available upon request for all paid Grandstand shows with at least a 14 day notice required. Please call 618-542-1535(voice/TDD) to request a sign language interpreter.
Cooking Contests at The Du Quoin State Fair
Saturday, aug. 24
11:00 am ...... 2 tier tray decorating Contest
Sponsor: two raggedy Sisters in du Quoin
1:00 pm..............tailgating Cooking Contest
Sponsor: banterra bank of du Quoin
Monday, aug. 26
6:00 pm ... 4-h Food Challenge Quick veggie pizza
Sponsor: u of I extension, Franklin, Jackson, perry, randolph & Williamson Counties
tuesday, aug. 27
6:00 pm ........ Mystery Sack Cooking Contest
Wednesday, aug. 28
6:00 pm .... 4-h Food Challenge Magical Fruit Salad
Sponsor: u of I extension, Franklin, Jackson, perry, randolph & Williamson Counties
thursday, aug. 29
6:00 pm` ........... havin’ a ball “With Cheese”
Sponsor: Fare Foods in du Quoin
Friday, aug. 30
6:00 pm ........From Cow to Cone homemade Ice Cream Contest
Sponsor: pinckneyville Market place
Sponsor: Farm Fancy brewed and Crafted LLC in du Quoin
Saturday, aug. 31
11:00 am .... 4-h Food Challenge, basic plain omelet
Sponsor: u of I extension, Franklin, Jackson, perry, randolph & Williamson Counties
FREE Entertainment Shows and Events
bubble bus … will be here two days only spreading joy and bubbles to people of all ages. The Bubble Bus is the only mobile business of its kind with its interactive bubble-making magic. It provides a continuous sea of bubbles filling the air while playing pre-recorded music Make sure to “pop” over to check it out in front of the Grandstand on Saturday, August 31 and Sunday September 1.
Cowboy Mounted Shooting … is an up-ancoming sport that mixes riding and shooting like nothing else. You will feel like you’re back in the wild west whether you are participating or just a spectator. This high-spirited event takes placed in the Covered Horse Arena. You can check out this all-day event at the horse arena on Tuesday, August 27.
open draft horses/ponies and Mule Show
… will begin on Saturday, August 24 at 9:00 am (horse/ponies), while the mule show will be on Sunday, August 25 at 9 am. This is always one of the most popular livestock shows during the Fair. Make your way to the horse arena to see what it’s all about.
ducky derby dash … will be benefiting Region K Special Olympics athletes on Sunday, September 1. Each duck adoption purchased helps people with disabilities. Special Olympics transforms the lives of people with intellectual disabilities, allowing them to realize their potential in sports and in life. Their programs enhance physical fitness, motor skills, selfconfidence, social skills and encourages family and community support. The fun will start at 1:00 pm on race day so come join us, enjoy some entertainment and ducky family fun. There will be a minimum of 5,000 duckies splash into the pond
and waddle their way to the finish line at 3:00 pm at the Expo Hall Lake. Don’t forget to adopt your ducky.
FFa Farmyard Follies … takes place in the open-air horse arena on Monday, August 26 @ 4:30 pm. Each team consists of members from area High School FFA Chapters. This competition consists of several “Farmyard” events in which the first 6 places will receive a plaque. It’s an allaround fun event that will educate and keep you entertained.
Foam Zone … is unique, interactive, and engaging! A mountain of foam makes every gathering become an unforgettable celebration of joy, inclusion, and boundless entertainment. Any ages between 3 and 333 will enjoy being surrounded by the foam. Every day clothing can be worn and will be dry within 15 minutes of
FREE Entertainment Shows and Events Jack’s Roofng
exiting to enjoy the rest of your day at the fair. They will be providing three shows a day. You won’t want to miss this indescribable eye-catching experience. Look for the mountain of foam just off north Grandstand Avenue.
heavy horse puller’s association … is involved in the sport of horse pulling, a competition that showcases horses’ strength and anaerobiotic power. The rank, maximal weight and distance pulled are collected and analyzed for all horses that enter the competition. Weigh-in is 10 am –Noon. 2 Class Split Overweight - $4000 purse. Heavy horse pullers continue to impress us with their insane strength. Come be impressed as you watch them on Saturday, August 31, 1 pm in the horse arena.
helping hands … is an agricultural education exhibit for kids located just outside the Expo Hall.
FREE Entertainment Shows and Events
Children (ages 3-10) become farm hands at this free, hands-on exhibit as they are provided the opportunity to experience the agricultural process, beginning at the farm and ending at the market. The children and their families don their work apron and fire up their imaginations to help with farm chores, collect goods to sell at the farmer’s market, and then spend their “earnings” on real products made from the farm at the grocery store.
Illinois barrel racing association … is a rodeo event which a horse and rider attempt to run a cloverleaf pattern around pre-set barrels in the fastest time. The IBRA continues to promote and encourage barrel racing at horse shows to foster good sportsmanship, and to further spread interest in all barrel racing. Come watch and show your support as riders navigate tight turns on horseback and race for the top time of the night. This event will take place in the horse arena on
Monday, September 2 at 11:00 am.
Illinois products Show … will be here three days only Friday. August 30, 5 – 9 pm; Saturday, August 31, 12 – 8 pm; and Sunday, September 1, 11 – 5 pm. More than 15 vendors will be bringing free food samples, as well as kettle corn, soaps, lip balm, essential oil products, birdhouses, wood & gourd crafts, honey, jelly, salsa, seasonings, coffee, herbal tea and much more. Plus, there will be several Illinois wineries on board for wine tasting. Check out these vendors at the Expo Hall.
nathan’s Spray Monay …is an award-winning and recognized spray paint artist. He presents spray paint art as a “live performance art.” According to Nathan, a picture can best be experienced LIVE in about 5 minutes while playing energetic music. Spray paint is NOT
airbrushing. He is known as the “Spray Monay – Rattle Can Ninja of the Midwest” of the spray paint art world. Nathan will be providing 6 daily performances with a free painting to be given away at each performance. He will be located near the Free Entertainment Tent just off Midway Drive.
the parent pit Stop … is located inside the Free Entertainment Tent. We here at the Du Quoin State Fair realize it’s sometimes necessary to take a quick break from the action, especially if you’re a parent. On the other hand, kids never seem to get tired of the bright lights, thrilling rides and colorful prizes. That’s why this year we’re finding a solution for parents needing a break and kids not wanting the fun to stop. At the Parent Pit Stop everyone will have the opportunity to get out
FREE Entertainment Shows and Events
of the heat and have a cold drink. Parents can discuss which attractions to plan for next, while kids stay entertained by the various outdoor toys and games provided inside the tent. Everyone wins at the Parent Pit Stop.
poppin penelope gIant one-Woman balloon exhibit … Poppin Penelope’s exhibit starts from nothing and grows into a larger-than-life balloon wonderland. Penelope will begin on Sunday, August 25 during the Veteran’s Day festivities with stilt-walking and giving away patriotic balloons. She will then return each day to build her balloon utopia. Her exhibit defies logic, as one incredible woman creates a balloon presentation larger than what an entire crew could accomplish in the same amount of time. Make sure to visit the Expo Hall to see what has been sprouted overnight.
the rusty truck vintage Market … consists of a group of local small businesses that will have their unique items available for purchase. Craft boutiques, handmade signs, tumblers, food, freeze-dried candy, soaps and candles, just to name a few, will be available for your viewing.
The “vintage market” will be located at the 1st and 2nd Heat buildings on Friday, August 23 from 5 –10 pm; Saturday, August 24 from 2 – 10 pm; and Sunday, August 25 from 2 – 10 pm. Don’t miss out on these 3 days to help support local small businesses. You never know what treasure you might find!
SIu Ski / alumni Ski Show … will be Saturday, August 31. They will be providing a ski show throughout the day on the big lake near the Expo Hall. Plan on relaxing and watching them perform their outstanding skiing abilities on that day.
FREE Entertainment Shows and Events
Show-Me Safari’s petting Zoo … is familyowned and provides the public with an opportunity to interact with a variety of animals in a safe, educational environment. The interactive area allows you to meet some wonderful farm animals. Feed is available to purchase. Pony rides are also available for our youngest fairgoers to enjoy. This complete petting zoo is fun for the entire family. Show-Me Safari is located on Expo Drive and will open at 4:00 pm daily and 12 Noon on weekends.
Show-Me Safari’s pig races … have proven to be an excellent crowd-pleasing entertainment with a touch of class. Both children and adults love to see these little “hams” race to the finish line. The audience is entertained and enthused through the provided comedy and audience participation. Check out their race times at their location on Expo Drive.
Whippoorwill rodeo … has more than 25 years of rodeo experience on both sides of the arena as rodeo contestants, stock contractors and rodeo producers. Their mission is to keep the legacy of America’s original extreme sport alive for generations to come – while preserving the
FREE Entertainment Shows and Events
values of our Western heritage and the cowboy lifestyle. At Whippoorwill Rodeo it is not just their passion but a way of life. The True American Cowboy Tour Finale will take place on Saturday, August 24 and Sunday, August 25 at 6:00 pm in the covered horse arena. Come watch them continue to live out their dream.
Have Fun at the 100th Anniversay of the Du Quoin State Fair!
Du Quoin State Fairgrounds Camping Information
Over 1,000 hookups with water and electric.
- Du Quoin City Water, Electrical hookup - Three wire grounded - 30 amps - Adapters available for a standard receptacle - 2 bath houses with toilets and showers - 2 Dump stations - Unlimited primitive camping
- Covered picnic pavilion with electric and water - Fishing lake access (license required, bank fishing only) - Paved roads for biking and walking
appLICatIon – rateS – paYMent proCeSS:
• Camping is on a first come first served basis. Reservations will not be accepted for the 2023 Fair.
• Camping rate is $25.00 per night beginning August 1, 2023. NO DISCOUNTS.
• Campers must check in at the Campground office prior to parking camper.
• Visa, MasterCard, Discover, check or cash are the only acceptable forms of payment.
• Your campground charge will appear on your credit card statement as DQ Fairgrounds Camping. A convenience fee of 2.25% will be assessed.
• No refunds will be issued.
adMISSIon & parkIng poLICIeS:
• One vehicle parking placard will be provided with each campsite. Additional vehicles must purchase a parking placard upon arrival at the campground office and park in designated parking lot.
• Every vehicle at the campground, excluding motor homes, will need a paid seasonal parking placard. Starting August 25, 2023, all vehicles will be inspected for appropriate parking placard. Those not
displaying the appropriate placard will be subject to tow at the owner’s expense.
• Camping placard must be displayed in camper.
• Lost or stolen parking placards will not be replaced.
CaMpIng poLICIeS:
• Campers will be checked for length upon arrival.
• Campers must enter Gate 3.
• Supply vehicles are not permitted in the campgrounds.
• All pets must be on a leash and confined to the campground area. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after them.
• Disabled camping sites are limited. Campers requiring a disabled location must show proof of disability plates or disability placard.
• Parents are responsible for their children and their behavior.
• No swimming in the lakes. No boats on the lakes.
• NO SWIMMING POOLS.
• No Parking in buildings or pavilions.
• No sleeping in pavilions or restrooms.
• A dump station, showers and restrooms are located in the campgrounds.
• Tram service is available.
• ONLY above ground fire pits are allowed.
• All vehicles, (golf carts and side by sides) must obey rules of the road and be driven by a licensed driver. Proper permit must be purchased at the credentials office located under the grandstand. Vehicle permits must be clearly displayed at all times. No golf carts or side-by sides allowed on main fair loop during fair hours. This will be strictly enforced
Livestock 2024 Schedule
Show/Date & Time
In Place By Release Date & Time
BEEF CATTLE
Jr Showmanship 8/31 @ 9:30 am NA NA
Jr Show Breeding Beef 8/31 @ 1:00 pm 8/30 by Noon 9/1 after Open Show
Open Show Breeding Beef 9/1 @ 9:30 am 8/30 by Noon 9/1 after Open Show
Jr Show Steers 9/2 @ 9:30 am 9/1 by Noon 9/2 after Steer Show
DAIRY CATTLE
Jr Show Animals 8/24 @ 9:00 am 8/22 by 6:00 pm 8/25 after Open Show
Open Show Animals 8/25 @ 9:00 am 8/22 by 6:00 pm 8/25 after Open Show
DAIRY GOATS
Jr Show Dairy Goats 8/31 @ 9:00 am 8/30 by 6:00 pm 9/1 after Open Show
Open Show Dairy Goats 9/1 @ 9:00 am 8/30 by 6:00 pm 9/1 after Open Show
MEAT GOATS 8/24 @ 2:00 pm 8/24 by 8:00 am 8/24 after Open Show
SHEEP
Jr Breeding Sheep 9/1 @ 9:00 am 8/31 by 9:00 am 9/1 after Breed Show
Jr Market Lambs 8/31 @ 4:00 pm 8/31 by 9:00 am 9/1 after Breed Show
Jr Showmanship 9/1 after Breeding N/A N/A
SWINE
Jr Gilts 8/24 after Showman 8/23 by Noon 8/25 after Barrow
Jr Barrows 8/25 @ 9:00 am 8/23 by Noon 8/25 after Barrow
Jr Showmanship 8/24 @ 1:00 pm N/A N/A
DRAFT HORSES, PONIES & MULES
Horse & Pony Halter Classes 8/24 @ 9:00 am 8/23 by 6:00 pm 8/25 after show
Teams & Hitches 8/24 @ 1:00 pm 8/23 by 6:00 pm 8/25 after show
All Horse/Pony/Mule Parade 8/24 after last class N/A N/A
Mule Halter Classes 8/25 @ 9:00 am 8/23 by 6:00 pm 8/25 after show
Carts & Hitches 8/25 @ 1:00 pm 8/23 by 6:00 pm 8/25 after show
Du Quoin State Fair 2023 Kick-Off Memories
Left: Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker gives a statement during the ribbon cutting. Above: Du Quoin Mayor Josh Downs delivers remarks at the 2023 ceremony.
Above Left: Illinois County Fair Queen Paige Van Dyke speaks to the crowd. Above Right: Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II gives remarks during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the 101st Du Quoin State Fair on August 25, 2023 which ran through September 4. Photos by Pete Spitler.
Du Quoin State Fair 2023 Ducky Derby Memories
Above: Jack and Splash continue to patiently wait, knowing that only seconds remain before the first duck arrives at the finish line. Right: The crowd cheers as the derby reaches its conclusion and the winner is held high above the water. Below: Jack Langley speaks during the event’s opening ceremony, emphasizing the event’s importance to him, as well as his reverence for education.
2023 Miss Du Quoin State Fair Pageant Memories
Left: Jozilynn Stork, the 2023 Miss Pre-Teen Du Quoin State Fair Queen, stands with retiring Miss PreTeen Dariyan Carney. Above Left: Roe Marks, the 2023 Junior Miss Du Quoin State Fair Queen, stands with retiring Junior Miss Milly Jones. Above Right: Ella Wilson, the 2023 Little Miss Du Quoin State Fair Queen, stands with retiring Little Miss Piper Jones. Photos by Lylee Gibbs.
Above Left: Pre-Teen winner for Miss Congeniality is Bailey Morgan. Above Left: Junior Miss Contestant Amiyah Crawford (Age 7) Amiyah is the daughter of Chantel Williams and Wayne Crawford. Amiyah is from Du Quoin. Right: Junior Miss Contestant McKenna Morris (Age 7) McKenna is the daughter of Sarah and Josh Morris. from Benton.
2023 Miss Du Quoin State Fair Pageant Memories
Above Left: Zoe Searby (Age 7) Zoe is the daughter of Josh & Amanda Searby. Zoe is from Tamaroa and competing for Junior Miss. Above Right: Eliza Rushing (Age 4) Eliza is the daughter of Jessica and Dillon Rushing. Eliza is from Du Quoin and competing for Little Miss. Right: Lorelai Hammonds (Age 9) Lorelai is the daughter of Kyle and Abigail Hammonds. Lorelai is from Du Quoin and competing for Junior Miss. Photos by Lylee Gibbs.
Du Quoin State Fair 2023 Memories
Above Left: Jozilynn Stork, age 12, is crowned this year’s Miss Pre-Teen Du Quoin State Fair Queen on the Du Quoin State Fair Grandstand Stage on August 20. Jozilynn is the daughter of Hannah & Joseph Stork. Jozilynn is from Tamaroa. Above Center: Roe Marks, age 9, is crowned this year’s Junior Miss Du Quoin State Fair Queen last year. Roe is the daughter of Shawn and Rachel Marks. Roe is from Du Quoin. Above Right: Ella Wilson, age 5, is crowned this year’s Little Miss Du Quoin State Fair Queen. The Du Quoin State Fair Pageant was held on August 20 at the Du Quoin State Fairgrounds Grandstand. Ella is the daughter of Casey & Tony Wilson. Ella is from Pinckneyville. Photos by Lylee Gibbs.
Du Quoin State Fair 2023 Veterans Day Memories
Above: Illinois National Guard Sgt. Jeremy Weaver sings the Star Spangled Banner. Right: Jack Tripp, a 99-year-old World War II veteran at the time, is pictured as Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Director Terry Prince directs the audience’s attention towards him.
Photo by Holden Huntley.
The Sparta VFW Post 2698 Honor Guard hangs their heads during a performance of “Taps.” They are seen below during the ceremony.
Exceeding expectations. Enhancing experiences.
Marshall Browning Hospital has an Urgent Care Clinic and Emergency Department right up the road, so rest easy during the Du Quoin State Fair knowing that you can get excellent care if you need it. We’ve been providing high-quality healthcare services to local residents and visitors too.
We hope your state fair experience is injury- and illness-free, but if not, our skilled staff can treat you and get you back to the fun of the fair as soon as possible. We’re located just a few miles away from the fairgrounds at 900 N. Washington Street in Du Quoin.
