Get ready for a culinary adventure! The 2025 Illinois State Fair promises a delectable array of must-try foods, offering something for every palate. From classic fair favorites to innovative creations, this year’s fair is set to be a gastronomic delight. This year’s theme? **Fair Food Frenzy!**
Classic Fair Staples
No trip to the Illinois State Fair is complete without indulging in some of the time-honored classics. These vendors have been delighting fairgoers for years, and 2025 will be no different.
Culler’s French Fries
A State Fair institution, Culler’s French Fries are a must-try. Often served with a generous sprinkle of salt and vinegar, these crispy, golden fries are the perfect snack to enjoy while exploring the fairgrounds. According to WANDTV.com, Culler’s has been a fair staple for decades, consistently drawing long lines of hungry customers.
Bose Corn Dogs
Another classic, Bose Corn Dogs are a simple yet satisfying treat. These perfectly battered and fried corn dogs are a quintessential fair food experience. Their consistent quality keeps people coming back year after year.
New and Noteworthy Bites
The Illinois State Fair always brings exciting new food vendors and creations to the table. Here are some of the new items on the official Illinois State Fair list that you won’t want to miss.
Global Flavors
Explore a world of flavors at the fair! The Chinese/Japanese booth will be offering Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowls, providing a savory and satisfying meal. The Village of Cultures near the main gate, as noted by FOX Illinois (WICS/WAND), is a great place to sample diverse cuisines, including Cuban, Filipino, Greek, Jamaican, and Cajun specialties. This area provides a truly international culinary experience.
Sweet Treats Galore
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a variety of new offerings. Gilmore’s Freeze Dried Treats will be showcasing an array of candies, offering a unique twist on classic favorites. Hae’s Bakery & Coffee Shoppe will be serving up Acai Bowls, breakfast sandwiches, and cake pops, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a sweet afternoon treat. And don’t forget to check out Scoop Du Jour for donuts, pastries, and ice cream, according to the official Illinois State Fair website. Their offerings promise a delightful sugar rush.
Innovative Creations
Prepare to be amazed by some of the more adventurous food options at the fair. Fried dirty rice pineapple bowls offer a unique combination of savory and sweet flavors. Cajun Kahuna burgers, featuring a sweet and spicy Cajun sauce on chabatada bread, promise a flavorful kick. Food Baby is pushing the boundaries with smash burgers, including doughnut, fried cheese curd, and fried pickle burgers, along with beer battered cheese curds and pickle fries. These innovative creations are sure to be conversation starters.
Refreshing Drinks
Quench your thirst with a Boba lemon shake-up, with mango being a specific flavor mentioned. These refreshing drinks are the perfect way to cool down on a hot day at the fair. The combination of sweet boba and tart lemonade is a winning combination.
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
The Illinois State Fair is becoming increasingly inclusive, with more and more vegan and vegetarian options available. Shroom Shack is leading the way with a variety of plant-based dishes.
Shroom Shack’s Plant-Based Delights
Shroom Shack offers a range of vegan options that are sure to impress even the most dedicated meat-eaters. According to the fair’s official vendor list, their menu includes a Harvest Bowl, Jackfruit & Oyster Mushroom Nachos, Lion’s Mane “Crab Cakes,” and Oyster Mushroom “Chicken” N’ Sweet Potato Waffles. These innovative dishes showcase the versatility of mushrooms and other plant-based ingredients.
Other Notable Vendors
In addition to the highlights mentioned above, several other vendors are worth checking out.
Potbelly Sandwiches
For a quick and easy meal, Potbelly is offering their classic sandwiches. These are a reliable and convenient option for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
The Alamo’s Wild Game
The Alamo is offering Buffalo Burgers, Alligator, and Wisconsin Cheese Curds. For those looking for more unique and adventurous options, The Alamo is the place to be. The Illinois State Fair website lists them as a long-time vendor.
Plan Your Fair Food Adventure
With so many delicious options to choose from, planning your food strategy is essential. Consider these tips to make the most of your culinary journey at the 2025 Illinois State Fair:
- Prioritize your must-try items: Make a list of the foods you absolutely want to try and plan your route accordingly.
- Pace yourself: Don’t try to eat everything in one day. Spread out your food adventures over multiple visits.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic beverages to stay refreshed.
- Share with friends: Sharing food is a great way to try more items without overeating.
- Check for deals and discounts: Some vendors may offer special deals or discounts on certain days or times.
Embrace the Fair Food Frenzy!
The 2025 Illinois State Fair promises to be a culinary extravaganza, with a diverse range of foods to suit every taste. From classic fair staples to innovative new creations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So come hungry and get ready to embark on a delicious adventure at the Illinois State Fair!
