The state fair got its start Thursday night with the Twilight parade through the north end of the capital city. It's an annual tradition. But indications are that another tradition -- a Democratic party rally -- will not continue this year.
There were cheerleaders, bands, children scrambling for candy, and of course, a parade of politicians.
The Attorney General, Treasurer, Comptroller, Lieutenant Governor were all there.
First in that line: Governor Pat Quinn and an army of supporters and staffers, wearing his trademark kelly green campaign t-shirts.
His big day at the ten-day state fair is Wednesday - Governor's Day.
Traditionally, it's a time for lawmakers and candidates from the Governor's party to rally - so in this case, the Democrats.
But not this year.
“Going to the fair in the afternoon should be about kids and family and fun,” he said.
Quinn denies that the change is because Illinois Democrats are so fractured.
The governor's facing a primary challenge from President Barack Obama's former Chief of Staff, Bill Daley.
And Quinn's being sued by two other top Democrats - House Speaker Mike Madigan and Senate President John Cullerton - over cancelling legislators' paychecks.
Quinn says he hasn't talked to either since the lawsuit was filed ... but if they show up on Wednesday he says, "I'd certainly like to say hi."
