Illinois State Fair To Host "Preview Party"

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The countdown to the 2013 Illinois State Fair begins Friday, Feb. 8, when fair officials will throw a “preview party” to discuss plans for this year’s event.

The preview, which will include samples of fair food and live entertainment by Heather Riley, is open to the public.  It will be held from 6 to 9 a.m. in the Illinois Building just inside the Main Gate to the fairgrounds.

A press conference is scheduled at 9 a.m.  State Fair Manager Amy Bliefnick, Agriculture Director Bob Flider and other dignitaries will unveil the 2013 Illinois State Fair theme, discuss planned, new attractions and announce additions to the Grandstand concert line-up, including the booking of up-and-coming country sensation Kip Moore.

Moore, whose second single, “Somethin Bout A Truck,” currently is in the top 30 on the country music charts and climbing, will open for Toby Keith Wednesday, Aug. 14.  Tickets for the concert will go on sale Saturday, Feb. 9, beginning at 10 a.m.  They can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com, by calling 1-800-745-3000 or by visiting any Ticketmaster outlet.

Dates for the 2013 fair are Aug. 8-18.