Ribbon cutting starts showcase of agricultural achievements by
                     generations of Illinois families

Gov. Bruce Rauner opened the 2017 Illinois State Fair Thursday with the official ribbon cutting ceremony at the state fairgrounds in Springfield. The State Fair’s directors, managers, grand marshals, FFA and 4-H representatives, the lieutenant governor and elected officials joined the governor as he cut the ribbon, symbolizing the beginning of the State Fair.

“It is my honor to be here to help celebrate generations of families who have made Illinois the great state that it is,” the governor said. “Over the next 11 days, you will see these families and their hard work, be it for food they grew, the livestock they raised or the service and entertainment they bring to this state.”

Some of the fair events include livestock competitions, harness racing, the Illinois Bicentennial Beer Competition, rides and concerts.

The State Fair runs through Aug. 20.

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