Illinois e-News Release

December 1, 2025

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DU QUOIN, IL – The Du Quoin State Fair has earned national recognition from the International Association of Fairs & Expositions (IAFE), receiving first place in the Facility Beautification Project category and second place in the Other Unique Marketing Tactic category for its work developing the Du Quoin State Fair Nature Area.

Both award-winning projects highlight the fair’s commitment to enhancing the grounds with native plants, conservation-focused features, and year-round recreational opportunities. The beautification project, recognized by IAFE, revitalized a cabin, patio, and pathway near Main Street and Expo Drive with the addition of 66 native Illinois plants such as Big Bluestem, Purple Coneflower, Bee Balm, and Rattlesnake Master, along with signage educating visitors about the importance of pollinators to Illinois agriculture.

The marketing award honors the “DQSF Nature Area” initiative, which promotes the fairgrounds as a year-round destination for outdoor recreation and education. The effort includes the creation of a Nature Area logo, native pollinator plots, a 0.4-mile interpretive trail, and community involvement projects with Du Quoin High School students.

“The Du Quoin State Fair staff continues to lead with creativity and innovation,” said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. “These projects show how agriculture and the natural environment can work hand-in-hand to enhance the fairgrounds and create meaningful experiences for the community.”

“The Nature Area has become a point of pride for our visitors and our local partners,” said Luke Davison, Du Quoin State Fair Manager. “From native plantings to student collaborations, we are creating a space that serves families throughout the year, and we appreciate IAFE recognizing the work put into these projects.”

The Du Quoin State Fair Nature Areas are open dawn to dusk and there is no fee to enter. Please visit dsf.illinois.gov/nature-areas for additional information.