The Du Quoin State Fair continues to be an economic engine for the southern Illinois economy.
The Illinois Department of Agriculture reports more than 166,000 people attended this year’s annual event. That's about 4,500 fewer than last year.
Excessive heat warnings and an extended duration of high humidity led to the cancellation of the annual Twilight Parade this year and prompted several schedule alterations to accommodate the safety of fairgoers. Despite the extreme weather, the Du Quoin State Fair brought in more than $417,000 in revenue on ticketed events.
Fair coordinators say the increase in revenue is attributed to strong ticket sales led by Grandstand performers Dustin Lynch, Larry the Cable Guy, and FLO Rida.
Published reports indicate the Du Quoin State Fair has an economic impact of $6 million, including $2 million for wages and salaries, and generates more than half a million dollars in sales tax revenue.
Saturday, September 2 proved to be the most attended day of the fair with over 25,000 people.
