Illinois State Fairgrounds

Ahead of the start of the Illinois State Fair next week, organizers say they’re optimistic about attendance and attractions. But the fair’s success is an open question.

The debut episode of Statewide includes:

Fifty years since the tumultous political convention in Chicago, renovations to the Reagan boyhood home, assasination games in school, plus more.

The Illinois State Fair kicks off next week with the annual Twilight parade on Thursday, August 9th. The fair will run until the following Sunday, August 19th. 

Law enforcement in Sangamon County is gearing up for Luke Bryan’s concert on Friday after a late venue change due to rain. The concert was originally scheduled to be held at the Ayers Family Farm in Edinburg, Illinois, a small town in Christian County. It is now moved to the Illinois State Fairgrounds. 

The Illinois State Fair opens in one week. Years of budget cuts and deferred maintenance have led to a series of problems at the fairgrounds. But officials say they’ll be ready.

As state lawmakers again consider expanding the number of casinos in the state, Springfield could wind up in the mix. 

Sean Crawford talks with State Journal-Register Business Editor Tim Landis.

Sean Crawford talks with the State Journal-Register Business Editor Tim Landis.

Sean Crawford talks with the State Journal-Register's Tim Landis.

NPR Illinois' Sean Crawford talks with Tim Landis, Business Editor of the State Journal-Register.

Tim chats with Bill about saving the iconic seal from the remnants of the Bel Air Motel & an Emerald Ash Borer infestation at the State Fairgrounds.

Brad Schaive wants to make a few things clear about full contact armored fighting.  It's a sport and it's dangerous.   

Schaive would know.  He's a competitor.  He's traveled overseas to go up against some of the best in the world.  But now, the best are coming here. 

Battle of the Nations International Tournament of Chivalry will bring participants from the U.S. and five other countries to Springfield.  The event at the Illinois State Fairgrounds Livestock Center is from 12-3 Saturday.