It's that time of year again, the Illinois State Fair is one week away. The fairgrounds in Springfield are ready to shine. The State Fair opens next week, and managers are once again promising food, fun, families, concerts and more.

The theme for this year's fair is "Building Our Future." Illinois Department of Natural Resources Director John Sullivan says it's fitting given the amount of work poured into the fair over the past years, including the centerpiece coliseum.

"Crews worked 20-hour days, two 10-hour shifts, six days a week. And they kept promising us 'It'll be ready for the fair,' " Sullivan said. "And with all the wet weather that we dealt with this year, they kept their word."

Tickets are bit cheaper this year, just $5 during the middle of the week.

State Fair Manager Kevin Gordon said there are also daily giveaways that include tickets, free rides and free food.

The Illinois State Fair starts Aug. 8 and runs through Aug. 18 at the fairgrounds in Springfield.

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