Illinois e-News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 28, 2026

[email protected] 

DU QUOIN, IL – The Du Quoin State Fair has an exciting series of races planned for the mile and half mile tracks. The mile track will host three days of harness racing on August 31, September 1, and 2 starting at 4 p.m.

“Harness racing is one of the most popular attractions at the Du Quoin State Fair,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. “These beautiful animals deliver edge-of-your-seat excitement. We encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the action.”

In addition to horse racing, a variety of motor sports are also scheduled. 

On the Half-Mile Track, Motocross races will be held Aug. 29 and 30. Practice starts at 10 a.m. with races at 12 p.m. Admission is free. Upgrade to pit entry for $15. All classes will run each day.

The Mile Track features USAC Silver Crown Series Saturday, Sept. 5 at 1 p.m., and ARCA Menard Series Sunday, Sept. 6 at 6:30 p.m. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance and save $5 off race day pricing by calling the Track Enterprises office at (217) 764-3200. Advance adult tickets are $25 each day, while race day adult admission is $30. Children ages 11 and under are admitted for $10 each day. Reserved grandstand seating and general admission bleacher seating are available.

The ITPA Truck & Tractor Pulls will be held Monday, Aug. 31 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for kids ages 3-13 and kids 3 and under are free. 

Performing daily on Sept. 1– 4, from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. (until 10 p.m. on Sept. 4) FULL THROTTLE Monster Trucks will be offering paid rides Monster truck rides inside the 1/2-mile track located near the main gate (Gate 1).

The Demolition Derby will be held Saturday, Sept. 5 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 for ages 13 and up. Kids 12 and under are $5. Kids under 3 are free.

“The Du Quoin State Fair offers something for everyone, with a lineup of affordable, family-friendly entertainment throughout the fair,” said Luke Davison, Du Quoin State Fair Manager. “We focused on providing a wide variety of no-cost and low-cost activities so families can spend quality time together, make lasting memories, and celebrate the close of summer without breaking the budget.”

The Du Quoin State Fair runs from August 28 through September 7. Admission to the fair is free. Please visit dsf.illinois.gov for additional information including seasonal parking and handicap parking details.