The Illinois State Fair has kicked off in Springfield – transforming into more than a celebration of rides and treats—it’s a showcase of the future of Illinois agriculture. From the early morning sounds in the livestock barns to the learning stations tucked inside the Agriculture Education Tent, the fair is packed with opportunities to see, touch, and understand what makes Illinois a national leader in farming and sustainability.

Young 4-H and FFA members proudly show cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and poultry they’ve raised with care—demonstrating the responsibility and dedication it takes to be part of the next generation of Illinois farmers. The competitions go beyond ribbons, fostering leadership and lifelong skills, and connecting communities through a shared agricultural heritage.

Visitors eager to learn about farming innovation flock to the Agriculture Education Tent. Here, hands-on activities where kids can participate in agricultural-themed crafts, games and meet young farmers who explain modern practices. These demonstrations make agriculture tangible, inviting visitors to ask questions and see firsthand how things like the food they eat everyday reaches their tables, connecting everyday fairgoers with the practical side of environmental stewardship.

One of the most popular stops each year is Conservation World, hosted by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. This interactive area highlights everything from prairie restoration to river habitats, and features live demonstrations on how farmers and conservationists work together to protect land and water for generations to come.

Whether you’re sampling Illinois-grown produce, cheering at a showmanship contest, or learning about native wildlife, the Illinois State Fair brings together the best of agriculture and environmental care. It’s a reminder that the state’s rural roots and forward-thinking spirit are working hand in hand to grow a greener, stronger Illinois.

This month we are highlighting one of the most revered masters of tap dancing — Reginald "Reggio the Hoofer” McLaughlin. For more than 50 years McLaughlin has pioneered his inspired distinctive “hoofing” across the nation, showcasing his talents to a variety of festivals and classrooms with the goal of keeping this dance tradition alive.

Did you know Illinois is home to 300-miles of Route 66? “The Mother Road” is dotted with cute small towns, classic diners, roadside curiosities, museums and is full of history. Starting in the heart of Chicago, this route will teach you about Illinois’ past while experiencing Illinois’ present.

Built in 1926, the Illinois portion of route 66 has quite a few attractions for travelers and nostalgia seekers alike:

Chicago:

Lou Mitchell’s

Joliet:

Old Joliet Prison

https://roadtorock.org/

Pontiac:

Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum

Oakland Automobile Museum

Did you know the Cha Cha slide, a world-wide classic appreciated by all ages, came from the Englewood neighborhood in Chicago? In 1999, everything came together and DJ Casper laid down the vocals that changed the world. The beat was a house track created by DJ Hudson “Hot Mix” Beauduy and played for DJ Casper in a basement studio at 64th Street and Parnell Avenue.

The song was originally written as a step aerobics routine for his nephew. The inspiration for the track comes from the culture of the Chicago stepping movement. This movement pulls from dance styles across the country and the Cha Cha Slide is one of many diverse iterations.

Need an escape from city life or want to spend more time outdoors? Get in touch with nature this summer and spend a calm and relaxing day at one of the hundreds of fishing spots Illinois has to offer. Loved by local anglers and visitors from across the state, the following fishing spots offer beautiful scenery, additional outdoor activities and best of all – a great catch!

Northern Illinois – Shabbona Lake

Located in DeKalb County, Shabbona Lake is a 318.8-acre fishing lake within Shabbona Lake State Park. Dubbed as the “muskie capital of Illinois,” the lake is has produced six state record fish including four muskies. The lake is stocked with large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, sunfish, black and white crappie, black and brown bullhead, channel catfish, walleye, muskie and perch.

Boat rentals and bait and tackle supplies are available on site at the park. Spend a full day at the park enjoying additional facilities for picnicking and hiking. For more information, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.