The 2024 Du Quoin State Fair broke its previous attendance records, attracting over 204,000 visitors during its 11-day run from August 23rd to September 2nd. This marked a major achievement for the annual event, surpassing the 2022 record of 171,000 attendees and setting a new benchmark for the Du Quoin Fair. 

From the opening Twilight Parade to the final performance by Nelly, the fair attracted large crowds thanks to cooler temperatures, new attractions, and upgrades to the fairgrounds. A variety of performances, including headliners like Ashley McBryde, KANSAS, Chris Lane, and the Marshall Tucker Band, also brought in large crowds of fair attendees. 

When combined with the Illinois State Fair’s numbers, the total attendance for both fairs surpassed 977,000. Planning is now underway for the 2025 Illinois State Fair, which is scheduled to run August 7th through the 17th, and the 2025 Du Quoin State Fair, scheduled for August 22nd through September 1st.