State Journal-Register (12/31/25) DeMille, Dave
Organizers of the Illinois State Fair have decided to ditch paper and go all-digital for 2026 tickets, aiming for faster, safer entry when the gates open Aug. 13 in Springfield. This follows a successful trial run last year of a digital ticketing system. The change is not only expected to streamline entry, but also reduce lost ticket hassles and align the fair with more modern entertainment venues nationwide. Fairgoers will be encouraged to download their tickets prior to attending or save them to their phone’s e-wallet for quick scanning at any of the entry gates. Mega Passes and Jumbo Passes will need to be redeemed for a photo ID card at the fair's on-site administration offices.
Read the full story from State Journal-Register.