Du Quoin state fair brings in millions of dollars to Southern Illinois areas

DU QUOIN, Ill. (KBSI) – Is it fair season already? For Southern Illinois it is! The Du quoin state fair started today, August 23rd at 4 pm with all the festivities.

Whether it be fried Oreos, fried twinkies or even pizza on a stick, you’re not going to want to miss the Du quoin state fair this year. 

“The food! I mean there’s something for everybody. The fried what stand is coming back this year and it’s all kinds of different desserts and so we just hope that everyone comes out and has fun and spends some money in Du quoin” says Du quoin Mayor Josh Downs.

And speaking of spending money in Du quoin, Mayor Josh Downs says the fair has a pretty big influence on the economy in the area each year.  

“There’s been study’s done in the past and there’s one going on right now that somewhere in that 5-8 maybe upwards of 10 million dollars for the region.” 

Luke Davidson is the fair manager, and he says the fair usually sees about 170,000 guests each year. Which makes it the largest event in the area. Davidson shares how its more than just a fair. 

“We are concerned with how we can create opportunities for this region. For hotels, restaurants and private businesses. Auto body shops, gas stations. Anything someone might need when their passing through” says Davidson.

The du quoin state fair has been a staple in the Southern Illinois community for 102 years now. Davidson said they have added new stuff to the fair this year but also like to keep the old stuff for community members used to tradition. 

“Generations and generations have come out here and seen it evolve and seen some things stay the same. Thats really what this fair is about is a balance of what’s familiar and what’s new.” 

The Du quoin state fair has everything from livestock and petting zoos to carnival rides and concerts and lots of other events!

The fair will run until Labor Day.