State Fair Twilight Parade Entries

The Illinois State Fair is quickly approaching and, as always, the fair will kick off with the Twilight Parade on Thursday, August 8th at 6 p.m. Those interested in participating in the 2013 Twilight Parade must act soon; the deadline to enter is July 12th.

Parade applications are available on the main page of the state fair website at www.illinoisstatefair.info. All entrants must fill out an application to be considered for participation in the parade. Along with the application, a description and drawing or photograph of your entry is required. A committee will then look at all applications and select entrants based upon entertainment value and use of the fair theme, “Where Illinois Comes Together.”

Participants in the fair are prohibited from throwing materials, including candy, during the parade. However, up to eight individuals may walk alongside the float and distribute materials and candy by walking to the curb and handing them out.

After the parade, the fair will recognize the most creative entries with awards and cash prizes. The most prestigious of these awards is the Governor’s Sweepstakes Award, which can be won by any float entry. The winner will receive a cash prize of $300. There are three separate judging categories: commercial, non-commercial, and specialty unit entries. First place in each category will receive the Grand Marshal’s Award and $150, second place will receive the Director’s Award and $50, and third place will receive the Illinois State Fair Award and $25.

For a complete list of criteria, and parade rules and regulations visit www.illinoisstatefair.info. Any questions call the Special Events Office at (217) 782-0777.