​CHAMPAIGN COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION
1302 N COLER AVE | PO BOX 544
URBANA, IL 61803-0544

Office: (217) 367-8461 | Fax: (217) 367-6268

The Champaign County Fair is conveniently located at the intersection of Coler & Fairview Avenues in Urbana, Illinois.

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Champaign County Fair History

In the early 1850s, pioneer families of Champaign County set aside a summer day to gather and showcase their finest livestock, grain, and farm products—comparing their hard work with neighbors and celebrating the agricultural roots of their community. As the day approached, excitement filled the air across the county. Before sunrise, families were already awake, putting the finishing touches on their preparations. With wagons loaded high and picnic baskets packed full, they made their way to Urbana, to a large grove just east of where the courthouse stands today.
As word spread, the gathering quickly grew. Families traveled from 20 to 30 miles away to be part of the event. To entertain both young and old, games and contests were added, complete with prizes for the winners—creating a day full of fun, friendly competition, and community spirit.
With continued growth came the need for organization. Then, just as now, dedicated volunteers stepped up—citizens driven by pride in their community and a desire to create something meaningful. In 1852, the first officially organized fair was held.
Over the years, through many changes and reorganizations, the Champaign County Fair has earned recognition as “one of the best in the country,” according to a former Director of Agriculture for the State of Illinois. Today, the fair features approximately 1,500 entry classes and offers over $100,000 in prize money.
Exhibitors can showcase their talents across a wide range of categories, including livestock, agriculture, arts, textiles, culinary creations, horticulture, floriculture, needlework, and crafts. The fair also hosts a queen contest ahead of fair week, along with crowd-favorite events like country music shows, demolition derbies, harness racing, motorcycle racing, tractor pulls, and semi-truck pulls.
While the days of picnic baskets have mostly faded, fairgoers now look forward to delicious food from local organizations and traveling vendors who bring flavors from fair to fair.
Beyond the fun, the fair continues to serve an important educational purpose—highlighting excellence across all categories. Judges are experienced and knowledgeable, ensuring a high standard of competition.
At its core, the Champaign County Fair remains a true community effort. It is made possible year after year by passionate volunteers—superintendents, department leaders, and countless others—who generously share their time and talents to keep this cherished tradition alive.