Save Time, Buy Online: Illinois State Fair Gate & Parking Now Available for Online Purchase

Ticket scanning now an option at all Illinois State Fair gates SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois State Fair continues its trek into the digital age by offering an online payment option for gate admission, parking passes and mega passes this year with more features to be added in addition to last year’s unveiling of a new mobile app that allows fair attendees to customize their visit to the state fairgrounds. In addition to purchasing advance tickets, attendees will also have the option to scan your online purchases via your smartphones at the gate.

“Technology is allowing the Illinois State Fair to evolve,” said State Fair Manager Kevin Gordon. “Scanning tickets is something we have been able to do at the Grandstand for a couple of years now, and we hope expanding this service to our twelve gates will be an added convenience for our fairgoers.” The fair will be moving its Mega Pass sales to this new online initiative, in addition to the ability to purchase parking and gate admission. Mega Passes have always been available for purchase online through the state’s E-Pay website, but that option was no longer available as of last Friday, June 16. Mega Pass purchases are gift certificates and must still be redeemed prior to use at the Emmerson Building where recipients must bring a photo ID to accompany the pass. Interested individuals can use the EventSprout platform to search for the Illinois State Fair, which will show the available purchase options. Tickets purchased online can be printed at home for those who prefer to have a paper ticket or can be scanned from your phone at the gate. Fair volunteers will be equipped with electronic scanners and those at the larger gates will be services with additional lines to expedite those who have prepaid for their gate admission and parking. “This company has a long resume of work with fairs and festivals around the nation,” said Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Raymond Poe. “Not only is this service offered at the county fair level, such as Lake County and Champaign County, but it’s a service that’s offered at music festivals, rodeos and sporting events. I’m happy to see our Illinois State Fair taking the next step in customer service and digital advancement.” An additional convenience will be offered beginning July 1, with participating Springfield area County Market grocery stores offering discount admission ticket booklets for the fair. One booklet provides for 11 adult admissions to the fair and will be made available, while supplies last, for $60. They can also be purchased at the Emmerson Building during business hours Monday through Friday or by calling (217) 782-0775 The Illinois State Fair kicks off on August 10 and runs until August 20.