The Sandwich Fair 2025: Dates, Venue, and Travel Tips

The Sandwich Fair is one of the Midwest’s most treasured traditions and one of the oldest county fairs in the United States. Every September, this five-day event in Sandwich, Illinois, welcomes thousands of visitors with a perfect mix of carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, live music, and delicious fair food. If you’re traveling through Illinois in early September 2025, this fair offers a genuine slice of Americana with a warm, small-town atmosphere.

What is the Sandwich Fair?

The Sandwich Fair began in 1888 as a way to celebrate the farming and community spirit of DeKalb County and its neighbors. Over more than a century, it has grown into one of the most recognized county fairs in Illinois. Unlike larger state fairs, it holds onto its cozy, nostalgic feel while still packing in plenty of entertainment. Generations of families return year after year, making it both a tradition and a unique travel experience for first-time visitors.

Sandwich Fair 2025 Details

• Date: September 3 – September 7, 2025
• Venue: Sandwich Fairgrounds, Sandwich, Illinois
• Tickets: Buy Tickets Online
• How to Get There:
  
  • By car: About 60 miles west of Chicago; on-site parking available.
  • By train: Metra BNSF Line from Chicago to Plano, then a short drive to Sandwich.
  • By air: Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) are the closest airports, both within 1.5 hours.

What to Expect at the Sandwich Fair 2025

At the Sandwich Fair, visitors step into a lively blend of tradition and fun:

• Grandstand Entertainment: Tractor pulls, demolition derbies, and live concerts.
• Livestock Shows: Horses, cattle, poultry, sheep, and more.
• Carnival Midway: Rides, Ferris wheels, games, and attractions for all ages.
• Fair Food: Classic corn dogs, funnel cakes, roasted corn, and the famous Lemon Shake-Ups.
• Exhibits: Handmade quilts, photography, baked goods, and local arts and crafts.
• Parades & Performances: Daily shows and small-town entertainment throughout the fairgrounds.

Things to Do Near Sandwich, Illinois

If you’re planning a trip to the Sandwich Fair, explore the surrounding area for even more experiences:

• Starved Rock State Park (40 minutes away): One of Illinois’ most visited parks, with sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls, and more than 13 miles of scenic hiking trails. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
• Aurora, IL (30 minutes away): Known for the historic Paramount Theatre, Phillips Park Zoo, and Chicago Premium Outlets, Aurora makes a great day trip for shopping and entertainment.
• Geneva, IL (45 minutes away): A charming riverside town with boutique shops, wineries, and farm-to-table dining. It’s an excellent spot for a relaxing afternoon.
• Plano, IL (10 minutes away): A small town with ties to Hollywood, Plano served as a filming location for Man of Steel. Fans often stop by to see the Superman House.
• Chicago (1 hour away): If you have extra time, head into the city for world-class attractions like the Shedd Aquarium, Millennium Park, and Navy Pier.
  

Travel Tips for The Sandwich Fair 2025

• Best Days to Visit: Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Friday and Saturday evenings are the busiest.
• Parking: On-site parking fills quickly, especially on Saturday. Arrive early or consider local shuttle services.
• Cash vs. Card: Many food and small vendors are cash-only. Bring extra cash to avoid ATM lines.
• What to Wear: Comfortable shoes are a must. The fairgrounds are large. September weather can be hot during the day but cool in the evening, so dress in layers.
• Lodging: For convenience, stay in Sandwich, Plano, or Yorkville. Aurora offers more hotel options within a short drive. Chicago is best if you want a city experience combined with your fair visit.
• Family-Friendly: The fairgrounds are stroller and wheelchair accessible. Families should plan breaks and use shaded rest areas.
• Food Tip: Don’t miss the Lemon Shake-Ups. A fair tradition and one of the most popular refreshments.

Conclusion

The Sandwich Fair is more than just a county fair. It is a living piece of Illinois history and a true celebration of community. From its rich agricultural exhibits to its thrilling midway and classic fair foods, it offers an authentic, family-friendly experience. All these facts have made the state fair one of the most anticipated events and festivals in the USA. Whether you are visiting from Chicago or traveling across the Midwest, the Sandwich Fair 2025 is a stop you won’t regret adding to your itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions