Venue Information

Fairground in Illinois In the early 1850’s the pioneer families of Champaign County set aside a day each summer to bring their best livestock, grain samples and other farm products to show and compare with their neighbors. As the appointed day drew closer an air of anxiety and excitement swept over the entire county. When the day finally arrived everyone was up before dawn, busily finishing preparations. Each family packed a gigantic picnic basket and with all their exhibits stowed in the wagon or tied on behind, they set out for Urbana and the big grove that was located east of where the Court House is today. Located in: Crystal Lake Park