Springfield officials hope everyone enjoyed the Illinois State Fair

Posted on August 24, 2022
Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau director Scott Dahl says the rule of thumb for economic impact is $125 per person per day. (WJBC file photo)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – The city of Springfield hopes everyone had a good time at the Illinois State Fair and enjoyed the city’s motels. And restaurants. And gas stations.

Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau director Scott Dahl says the rule of thumb for economic impact is $125 per person per day.

“Even if they spent simply $25 outside the fairgrounds, which they certainly would do if they had a motel, and bought gas, we are talking a million dollar impact,” Dahl said. “So, really, in the whole scheme of things, we are talking a multi-million dollar impact during the Illinois State Fair,” which runs eleven days.

The fairgrounds is not even in the city limits, to which Dahl says, “Not my lane.”

And year-round attractions at the fairgrounds will soon include the Route 66 exhibit, once that is finished.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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