Horses to horsepower: ‘New’ arena hosting numerous events

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The newly remodeled Multi-Purpose Arena will host a variety of family-friendly events during the Illinois State Fair.

Monsters of Destruction will take over the MPA on Thursday, Aug. 8, with an all-out monster truck thrill show featuring truck battles.

Participating monster trucks include Against the Grain, Redneck Rampage, American Scout, Crusharoo and War Wizard.

In addition to this head-to-head truck battle, attendees will also experience a Tuff Trucks competition and a unique side-by-side competition.

The adventure doesn’t end there. Get up close with these monster trucks and meet the drivers at the Pit Party, open two hours before the show.

Plus, experience a thrill like no other when you take the entire family on a trip they’ll never forget as you climb onboard a real monster truck. Monster truck rides will be available during intermission and after the show.

Tickets to Monsters of Destruction start at $25 for adults and $20 for children 12 and under; prices increase on day of the event. VIP packages are also available for $40, which include access to VIP seating and a monster truck ride.

On Saturday, Aug. 10, fairgoers will be treated to a full slate of rodeo events by Wooten Rodeo.

Attendees will enjoy nine edge-of-your-seat activities including: bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding, tie down roping, over 40 tie down roping, breakaway roping, team roping, steer wrestling and barrel racing. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids 12 and under.

The Illinois Tractor Pulling Association returns for three days of pulls, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, Aug. 12-14, at MPA. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids 12 and under.

Enjoy the destruction at the Demolition Derby on Saturday, Aug. 17, as these skilled drivers smash and crash into one another until only one remains to earn the title of Illinois State Fair Demolition Derby Champion.

Fairgoers can expect an adrenaline-pumping night of entertainment as drivers compete in the ultimate test of durability and strategy.

The Demolition Derby is always a crowd favorite where the roar of engines meets the crunch of metal in this pure battle of automotive combat. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids 12 and under.

Refurbished

The MPA underwent an $8.6 million overhaul in 2022, repairing sidewalks, walls, steps, expansion joints and electrical systems, readjusting the tension structure, installing a new canopy and rebuilding the retaining walls around the facility.

“The arena is freshly remodeled with numerous enhancements following a $8.6 million investment, and we are excited to fill this outdoor space with a solid lineup of entertainment during the Illinois State Fair,” said Jerry Costello II, Illinois Department of Agriculture director.

“The events featured in the arena represent traditions for the Illinois State Fair, as well as traditions for families throughout the state, my own included,” said Rebecca Clark, Illinois State Fair manager.

“We encourage fairgoers to purchase their tickets in advance to beat the lines at the gate and ensure they won’t miss any of the action inside the arena. We look forward to packing the stands for these four great events.”