The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is bringing fun and resources to the 2025 Illinois State Fair with its interactive tent experience—featuring games, helpful information, and the always-popular Prize Wheel. Visitors can spin to win giveaways while learning more about the many services IDHS offers to support individuals and families across the state.
Held in Springfield from August 7 through August 17, the Illinois State Fair is an annual celebration of the state’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. Since 1853, it has drawn thousands of fairgoers for eleven days of food, music, exhibits, livestock shows, and entertainment. The fairgrounds are open daily from 7 AM to midnight, giving visitors plenty of time to explore everything the fair has to offer.
The Illinois State Fair’s Grandstand stage is set to deliver an exciting lineup of evening concerts during this year’s fair, running August 7 through 17. Country star Jake Owen will kick things off on August 8 with a high-energy performance featuring special guest Jo Dee Messina. The Black Crowes bring their signature rock sound to the stage on August 9, followed by rising country artist Megan Moroney on August 10. On August 12, nine-time Grammy winner Sheryl Crow will treat fans to an evening of her greatest hits.
The week continues with hip-hop legend Snoop Dogg performing on August 13, and country favorite Brad Paisley returning to the fairgrounds stage on August 14. The Chainsmokers, known for their chart-topping dance-pop tracks, will light up the stage on August 15. Classic rock icons Def Leppard headline on August 16, and the fair’s Grandstand series wraps up with country-rock band Turnpike Troubadours on August 17. With a mix of genres and major names, this year’s lineup offers something for every music fan.
The IDHS tent will be located behind the Emmerson Building and across from the Lincoln Stage. It serves as a welcoming, inclusive space where fairgoers can engage with staff, pick up educational materials, and discover a wide range of programs. These include food and medical assistance, mental health and substance use recovery services, youth development and violence prevention, support for people with disabilities, and resources for individuals experiencing homelessness.
The Prize Wheel is a crowd favorite and provides a fun, interactive way for people to connect with the IDHS team. Alongside the chance to win giveaways, visitors can participate in trivia, ask questions, and learn about job opportunities and volunteer roles with the department.
IDHS Secretary Dulce M. Quintero shared the importance of the department’s presence at the fair: “The Illinois State Fair is an incredible opportunity for IDHS to connect directly with communities across the state. Our presence at the fair reflects our mission to respond to the needs of all people in Illinois, so they can lead healthy, safe, and enriched lives. We are here to ensure every fairgoer feels welcomed and supported as they learn more about the resources and services available to them.”
Whether you’re enjoying the fair for its deep-fried favorites, headline concerts, or family-friendly attractions, don’t miss the chance to visit the IDHS tent. Take a spin on the Prize Wheel, meet the people behind the programs, and leave with both a prize and new insight into the services that help strengthen communities across Illinois.
