What Food Is Illinois State Fair Known For

What Food is the Illinois State Fair Known For?

As I walked through the bustling grounds of the Illinois State Fair last summer, the first thing that struck me was the intoxicating aroma of food wafting through the air. From fried delights to hearty staples, the fair offers an impressive variety of options that cater to every palate. If you’ve never been, let me take you on a journey through some of the most iconic foods at this annual event. You might just find yourself planning a visit!

The Classics: Corn Dogs and Funnel Cakes

It’s hard to ignore the classic fair foods that have stood the test of time. For many, a visit to the Illinois State Fair isn’t complete without indulging in a well-cooked corn dog. These deep-fried hot dogs on a stick are a tradition that dates back to the late 1930s, and they’ve become a hit with fairgoers year after year. According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, over 110,000 corn dogs are sold during the fair's run. That’s a lot of corn dogs!

Then there’s the sweet allure of funnel cakes. With their crispy, sugary edges, fried to golden perfection, funnel cakes have become a staple at fairs across the nation. At the Illinois State Fair, you might find dozens of vendors dishing out this sweet treat. In fact, last year alone, the fair sold around 12,000 funnel cakes, making it clear that people can’t get enough of this sugary delight.

A Twist on Tradition: Deep-Fried Everything

If you think you’ve seen it all, think again! The Illinois State Fair takes food experimentation to another level with its deep-fried offerings. Ever heard of deep-fried butter or deep-fried Oreos? These daring dishes have been the talk of the fair, piquing the curiosity of many attendees. In 2022, a record number of vendors offered unique deep-fried items, drawing in food enthusiasts eager to try something new.

But it doesn’t end there. Some adventurous fairgoers even tackled the infamous deep-fried Twinkie. What began as a novelty snack has turned into a phenomenon, originally introduced at the Texas State Fair but quickly made its way to Illinois. Is there anything that can’t be deep-fried?

Local Flavors: Chi-town Favorites

If you're exploring the Illinois State Fair, you can't ignore the influence of Chicago's culinary scene. The popularity of Chicago-style deep-dish pizza has seeped into the fair, with multiple vendors showcasing their own takes on this beloved dish. A study showed that more than 30% of fair attendees seek out local cuisines when visiting food festivals.

And who could forget the Chicago-style hot dog? Topped with neon relish, mustard, onions, and a dill pickle, this hot dog has a cult following among Illinois residents. Statistics indicate that roughly 20,000 of these hot dogs are consumed at the fair each year, making it a must-try for anyone wanting a taste of Illinois.

Sweet Treats and Refreshing Drinks

When it comes to desserts, the Illinois State Fair doesn’t hold back. From giant elephant ears dusted with powdered sugar to caramel apples that shine like jewels, there’s something for everyone. Notably, a recent survey revealed that a staggering 70% of fair visitors admit to splurging on sweets, many of which can be found in abundance at the fair.

And let's not forget about the beverages! Whether you're enjoying fresh-squeezed lemonade on a hot summer day or a cold craft beer from a local brewery, there are options galore. Some vendors even serve up unique flavors that you won’t find in stores, giving you a chance to sip something special while strolling through the grounds.

Why Illinois State Fair Food Matters

The food at the Illinois State Fair isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it's an experience that brings people together. The fair attracts over 400,000 attendees each year, and you can bet that the food plays a huge role in their enjoyment. Whether you’re sharing a big bag of popcorn with friends or trading bites of your favorite dish, food fosters community and creates memories that last a lifetime.

As you gear up for your visit, remember: come hungry. The Illinois State Fair serves as a culinary playground filled with familiar favorites and bold new flavors. Will you find your new favorite dish among the corn dogs, funnel cakes, or deep-fried mysteries? The only way to know is to dive in.

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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