Illinois State Fair // Illinois.gov
August 4, 2026 – Fairgoers will have more opportunities to save on food during the 2026 Illinois State Fair thanks to two new promotions designed to make dining more affordable.
The Illinois State Fair’s $5 Fix promotion will be available all day, every day in the Reisch Pavilion, where participating vendors will feature a menu item priced at just $5. The promotion includes a variety of fair favorites, from corn fritters to dessert pizza.
In the Village of Cultures, the Small Plates, Big Tastes program will offer sample-sized portions from participating vendors for $3, allowing visitors to try a variety of cuisines without purchasing a full meal.
Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II said the promotions support Gov. JB Pritzker’s goal of making the fair more affordable for families.
The fair will feature more than 120 food vendors, including several new offerings this year. Among the new vendors are Backdraft BBQ, Erma’s Cinnamon Rolls, Tikka Street, Ben’s Soft Pretzels and Five Star Pickles & Sausages.
The 2026 Illinois State Fair runs Aug. 13 through Aug. 23 in Springfield.
