by DU QUOIN, Ill. – The Du Quoin State Fairgrounds have received over $50 million in upgrades as part of an ongoing effort to modernize the venue and strengthen its role in Southern Illinois. The substantial investment is part of Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s broader plan to revitalize the state’s fairgrounds, and State Senator Terri Bryant is vocally defending the importance of having two state fairs in Illinois.
$50 Million Investment in Du Quoin Fairgrounds
The recent upgrades include a mix of infrastructure improvements aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and preserving the fairgrounds’ historical significance. Over $30 million of the funding comes from Pritzker’s Rebuild Illinois program, while $21.7 million has been spent through the fairgrounds’ own Buildings and Grounds team.
In addition, $16.4 million was allocated this month for road repairs around the Du Quoin fairgrounds. The upgrades come after decades of deferred maintenance, with Jerry Costello, director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, noting the importance of restoring the fairgrounds as a key economic engine for Southern Illinois.
Senator Bryant’s Defense of Two Fairs
State Senator Terri Bryant, a Republican from Murphysboro, has been a long-time advocate for the Du Quoin State Fair. She emphasizes the geographic importance of the fair, especially for residents in southern Illinois, where the trip to the Illinois State Fair in Springfield is often impractical.
“For people living in Alexander or Massac counties, Springfield is a four-hour drive — they’re actually closer to Nashville, Tennessee, than to our state capital,” said Bryant. “That’s why the Du Quoin State Fair is so important to deep southern Illinois.”
Bryant argues that while the Du Quoin fair receives a fraction of the funding compared to Springfield, it still plays a critical role in serving the region. She also noted that the Illinois Department of Agriculture has historically worked to ensure the Du Quoin fair breaks even or generates profit.
Du Quoin’s Role in Southern Illinois’ Economy
Bryant defended the dual fairs as a necessary fixture in a state as geographically large as Illinois, explaining how the Du Quoin fair offers families an affordable and convenient alternative to the Springfield event.
“Let’s say you live in Du Quoin, it’s a three-hour drive to Springfield. My grandkids showed hogs at the fair this year, and they would never have been able to go to Springfield,” Bryant said. “But it’s just a 30-minute drive to Du Quoin, where they can enjoy the same amenities as Springfield.”
She further emphasized the economic benefits of tourism in Southern Illinois, pointing to the success of the shooting complex in Sparta, which generates significant revenue for the region.
Comparing State Fair Funding
By comparison, the Illinois State Fair in Springfield has received around $140 million in combined funding, with $53 million coming from the Department of Agriculture and $86 million allocated through the Rebuild Illinois initiative.
Bryant’s stance is that both fairs should continue to receive adequate funding, but that Du Quoin should remain affordable for families, ensuring that they don’t need to travel all the way to Springfield to enjoy the state fair experience.
“I don’t think we have to choose one fair over the other, as long as both remain at a level that showcases Illinois effectively,” Bryant said.
The Du Quoin State Fair
The Du Quoin State Fair runs through September 1, with ongoing festivities and attractions designed to showcase the rich agricultural and cultural traditions of Southern Illinois. Bryant’s advocacy for the fair ensures it remains a key part of the region’s identity and economic vitality.
What are your thoughts on the funding for the Du Quoin and Springfield State Fairs? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
