The first week of the Illinois State Fair offers fun for the whole family and enough sweets to keep the kids entertained all day.
But the fair isn’t the only thing going on this weekend. Here are five things to do in the Springfield area this weekend.
Illinois State Fair
What: All the rides, musical performances, monster truck shows and of course the classic fairground food will be back at the Illinois State Fair this year, along with numerous new highlights.
When: 8 to 18 August
Where: Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield
More: Who’s performing, how much is admission?: Answers to your questions about the 2024 Illinois State Fair
The Little (Muni) Mermaid
What: Directed by Tiffany Williams and Donna Ragan, with vocal direction by Nicole Pitman, The Muni presents a classic love story. Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid is an unforgettably beautiful love story for the ages. The show offers a fantastic creative opportunity for sumptuous costumes and sets, as well as the opportunity to perform some of the most well-known songs of the last 30 years.
When: 20:30 Friday and Saturday
Where: The Muni Outdoor Theater, 815 E. Lake Shore Drive, Springfield
More: Ticket prices range from $12 to $38, depending on certain discounts for seniors and students.
Explore Sagachris Lake State Park
What: Want to get some fresh air by the water with a breathtaking view? Then head to Sagachris Lake State Park and enjoy the weekend with the family at your leisure. In addition to fishing spots and several places near the lake, the 3,000-acre park has several hiking trails.
When: Whenever you feel like it.
Where: 9898 Cascade Road, Rochester
More: Bring sunscreen, but no water wings as swimming is not permitted in the lake.
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Kitten adoption with Meow Mobile
What: Meow Mobile volunteers have cats from the Sangamon County Animal Control & Adoption Center that you can adopt or just give some love to.
When: Saturday 10am to 1pm
Where: PetSmart, 3813 S. Veterans Parkway, Springfield
More: Meow Mobile is a non-profit organization that helps cats and kittens find homes. The group has several cats that were either stray or surrendered by their owners. The cats range in age from less than a year to older cats.
Artists’ exhibition throughout the state of Illinois
What: The Illinois Artist Showcase has represented the arts of Illinois since 2021, highlighting the work of talented professional artists ages 21 and older who live and work in Illinois. Originally created in response to the discontinuation of the professional art exhibit at the Illinois State Fair, the exhibit is hosted by the Springfield Art Association to highlight exhibits.
When: Friday 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: The Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., Springfield
More: This is a free event and an opening reception for the new exhibits.
Claire Grant writes about business, growth and development and other news topics for The State Journal-Register. Reach her at [email protected]; and on X (formerly known as Twitter): @Claire_Granted
