Western Illinois Fair returns this week

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By DAVID CAMPHOUSE

The Western Illinois Fair began in Griggsville on Wednesday, June 18, and it will last through the weekend – providing days of organized entertainment, competitive events, and family attractions to the residents of Western Illinois.

The fair opened Wednesday with the Queen, Junior Miss & Princess Pageant, an annual tradition that highlights the poise and leadership of local contestants. Thursday evening will feature the UPA Truck & Tractor Pull, a showcase of mechanical strength. On Friday, the ATV Big Air Tour will deliver high-energy stunts and aerial performances.

Saturday’s schedule includes the Domination Motorsports Southern #9 Memorial Tour Demolition Derby, an event expected to draw significant interest from motorsports enthusiasts. The fair will conclude on Sunday with the Heartland Garden Tractor Pullers event, highlighting precision driving and technical skill.

Beyond grandstand events, fairgoers can enjoy unlimited access to carnival rides on the Connor Family Amusements midway, included with front gate admission. Children ages 5 and under are admitted free, and ride eligibility is based on height requirements.

For those attending, the fairgrounds primarily operate as a cash-based facility, and there will not be an onsite ATM this year. Fairgoers are encouraged to bring cash with them. However, electronic card readers will be available at the front gate for admission. Additionally, card readers will be available at the Western Illinois Fair Food Stand, and select food and drink vendors throughout the grounds will accept electronic payments. The infield beer and drink pavilion will remain cash-only.

Parking is available onsite as space allows, with additional parking options across the highway and on side streets. Attendees should be respectful of private property and avoid parking in the Dollar General lot, as the store remains open throughout the fair. Additionally, the Griggsville City Park will be closed during the event, and patrons should not attempt to enter through park entrances.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, smoking and alcohol are prohibited in the grandstand areas. Alcohol consumption is permitted exclusively within the designated infield berm and pavilion areas. Outside coolers are not allowed on the grounds, though food and beverage concessions—including alcohol sales—are available onsite.

In the event of inclement weather, schedule updates will be posted first to the fair’s official Facebook and Instagram accounts. If no changes are announced, attendees should assume events will proceed as scheduled.

For directions, the Western Illinois Fair is listed on both Apple and Google Maps—simply search for the event, and navigation will guide visitors to the fairgrounds.

For additional details, including admission pricing and a full schedule of activities, visit www.westernillinoisfair.com.

4-H schedule of events

Thursday, June 19

8:00AM – Swing Show – Livestock Arena

10:00AM – Goat Show – Livestock Arena

11:00AM – Sheep Show (follows Goat Show) – Livestock Arena

12:00PM – Beef Show – Livestock Arena

3:00PM – Master Showmanship Contest – Livestock Arena

Friday, June 20

11:00AM – Animal Science Skill-A-Thon – American Legion

11:30AM – Pizza & Ice Cream Bar – American Legion

5:30PM – Auction Preview – Livestock Barn

6:30PM – Livestock Auction – Livestock Arena

7:30PM – Remaining Livestock Released (Livestock auction animals released after the sale concludes)