Illinois State Fair Twilight Parade to take place Aug. 8

[July 13, 2013]  SPRINGFIELD -- The Illinois State Fair is quickly approaching and, as always, the fair will kick off with the Twilight Parade. This year's parade, with the theme "Where Illinois Comes Together" will be on Aug. 8 at 6 p.m.

Parade applications closed yesterday. A committee will look at all the applications and select entrants based upon entertainment value and use of the fair theme.

Participants are prohibited from throwing materials, including candy, during the parade. However, up to eight individuals may walk alongside the float and distribute materials and candy by walking to the curb and handing them out.

After the parade, the fair will recognize the most creative entries with awards and cash prizes. The most prestigious of these awards is the Governor's Sweepstakes Award, which can be won by any float entry. The winner will receive a cash prize of $300.

There are three separate judging categories: commercial, noncommercial and specialty unit entries. First place in each category will receive the Grand Marshal's Award and $150; second place will receive the Director's Award and $50; and third place will receive the Illinois State Fair Award and $25.

For a complete list of criteria, parade rules and regulations, visit www.illinoisstatefair.info. For more information, call the Special Events Office at 217-782-0777.

[Text from Illinois State Fair file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]