Illinois State Fair vendors look forward to welcoming new, returning customers

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) – The Illinois State Fair is packed with all kinds of events and activities from rides to harness racing and to concerts. But you can’t go a few steps without finding a bite to eat or something to drink.

“I think Illinois is wonderfully reflected through our agricultural partners in the Illinois Department of Agriculture tent,” Rebecca Clark, the state fair manager, said. “You can get something deep fried everywhere on almost any corner, which is kind of a staple of the state fair.”

Before the fairgrounds opened its gates to the public Thursday, food vendors spent Wednesday preparing for opening day.

“I’m really just looking forward to seeing some return customers,” Matthew Caplis, the owner of the Cookie Booth, said. “I love seeing the people come back each year.”

Some food vendors are from Illinois, but others like the Donut Family make the trip from out of state setting up shop on the fairgrounds.

“We come back for the people,” Jeff Wobig, the manager, said. “Everyone loves their donuts. We love Illinois. It’s kind of been one of our favorite events.”

And they, like other vendors, have been serving fairgoers for decades.

“I’ve seen a lot of people, 4-H kids grow up and then they’re kids, so it’s kind of cool,” Wobig said.

Vose Korndogs has been a staple at the state fair for nearly sixty years serving their signature corn dogs.

“I think what brings people back is that sense of nostalgia every year,” Kelsie Vose, the manager, said. “That’s their tradition and we want that to continue for them.”

It all started with Bob Vose who was known as “The Corndog King.” He died last year, but his family is committed to carrying on his legacy .

“My grandpa started something and it’s not just corn dogs,” Kelsie Vose, who is also the granddaughter of Bob Vose, said. “It’s just a tradition. There’s a camaraderie. They come here, they all have stories about their first corn dog or they take pictures and so it means a lot to me. I definitely take pride in everything we do.”

While there might be some of your favorites back at the fair this year, there’s also some new places to try. They have more than a dozen new food vendors this year including Scoop Du Jour which is based in Chatham.

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