During the second week of the Illinois State Fair, thousands of visitors from across the state have come to Springfield to see the world-famous butter cow, rock out to Lil’ Wayne, and sample the new fair foods.
Would you like to take a break from strolling around the rides and see what else the capital has to offer?
Check out these five things to do in the Springfield area this weekend.
Scheels Outdoor DockDogs
What: A day where all dogs are welcome, regardless of shape, size and breed – any dog over six months old is welcome at Scheels Sports Park for DogDocks, a dog jumping competition where pups leap in the air for prizes. Whether you want to enter your dog for a portion of the competition or experience the fanfare and animal company at the event as part of Scheel’s scheduled weekend events, a respite from the summer heat at the State Fair can be found poolside with the pups.
When: Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Scheel’s Sports Park, 3801 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield
More: Pre-registration fees are required for dogs participating in the jumps and can be found online at dockdogs.com/events under Springfield.
More: Professional baseball returns to Robin Roberts Stadium in Springfield for the first time since 2001
Plant exchange in the beer garden “Plants & Pints”
What: After a successful first plant swap, Conn’s Hospitality Group has organized another swap for plants, beer and eco-friendly ideas. For the swap, plants must be pest-free, have roots or be labeled cuttings. The swap will have plenty of cider, beer and cocktails to sip on while swapping cuttings and plant parts. Alive on 66 will be selling plants so everyone can start their journey through the world of fauna and foliage, and Springfield-based Dabble Art will help build terrariums.
When: 2pm Sunday
Where: 7th Street Cidery, 503 S. Seventh St., Springfield
More: Further information is available online in a Facebook post about the event.
Smashing pumpkins
What: We mentioned Lil’ Wayne in the introduction at the State Fair, but wanted to mention another artist this week. Smashing Pumpkins, a Chicago alternative rock band popular in the ’90s, is considered one of the best gothic rock bands. The band has continued to evolve since its formation in 1988, adding elements of gothic rock, heavy metal, grunge, psychedelic rock, progressive rock, shoegaze, dream pop and electronica to their music.
When: Friday, 8 p.m.
Where: Illinois State Fair Grandstand, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield
More: Tickets range in price from $55 to $125 before fees and can be purchased from TicketMaster.
More: Who’s performing, how much is admission?: Answers to your questions about the 2024 Illinois State Fair
Widow Von Du at Clique
What: Widow Von Du returns from the runway on season 12 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, appearing in a clique with local drag legend Mahogany Knight. The stunning queens are joined by drag performers Alicia Markstone, Lulu Stiletto, Tonia Mazzerati Steele and Teresa Holiday.
When: 22:30 Saturday
Where: Clique, 411 E. Washington St., Springfield
More: Admission to this event is $10, plus a VIP meet and greet with Widow for $25. The meet and greet will take place one hour before the show. Tickets can be purchased on the Clique website.
Flowers and beer
What: Here’s a great opportunity for Insta-worthy photos and a breath of fresh air. Bring your friends and family for a fun day of picking your own zinnias and taking beautiful photos among the vibrant blooms. The pick-your-own field will be filled with a variety of zinnias in all sorts of colors, making the perfect backdrop for your photos. After picking your zinnias and snapping photos, head to Harvest Brew Coffee Shop and enjoy a refreshing strawberry lemonade slushie latte or the Original and Ultimate Silo. While you’re there, be sure to browse the selection of unique gifts and treats for sale.
When: Saturday, 3 p.m.
Where: 1312 Ropp Road, Normal
More: Admission to this event is free and flowers are complimentary – just don’t take more than you can handle.
Claire Grant writes for The State Journal-Register about business, growth and development and other news topics. Reach her at [email protected]; and on X (formerly known as Twitter): @Claire_Granted
