Sweet, unbelievable, fascinating, cool as can be and affordable. If life is like a box of chocolates, Illinois’ week-long fair is like a huge, sculpted butter cow.

No good reason to stay home. Like sculpting from butter instead of marble, it’s easy to find plenty to do for everyone and every wallet size. Those watching their budgets, and sun exposure, can browse the clothing, craft and food exhibits or watch one of the many shows or competitions. You can jump inside the airconditioned dairy building for ice cream, milk, cheese or a chance to see the famed cow.

New for ages 4-10 is Farmer’s Little Helper inside gate 2 near Peoria and Sangamon roads. Kids can live the life of a farmer performing tasks from milking a cow and shearing a sheep to selling the goods at market and using the money to grocery shop. There’s also plenty to learn from local groups and organizations located under tents and in buildings, and many offer small freebies and great information for families.

Families may also want to visit on Family Day, Aug. 22, when admission is lowered. Several special days are planned at the fair, each with their own fascinating deal. Veterans Day, on Aug. 15, allows vets free admission and a parade. Senior Citizens and Scout Day is on Aug. 16, and you guessed it, free admission. Futures for Kids Day is on Aug. 20 and Park District Conservation Day is set for Aug. 21.

Grandstand acts this year were planned for ten nights to please an array of people’s musical tastes. Highlights include the popular country trio, Lady Antebellum, who were nominated for seven Academy of Country Music Awards. They take the stage on Friday, May 13. The 70s band Cheap Trick, with rock ’n’ roll Hall of Fame inductee Blondie, perform the following Friday, May 20.

Fairgoers and the public in general will not want to miss the kickoff to the fair, as the parade gears up on Aug. 12 at 6 p.m. beginning at Ninth Street and North Grand Avenue. The procession makes its way to and through the fairgrounds with the opening ceremony at the main gate where its 100th anniversary will be celebrated. Admission is free because it’s Preview Night, one of those special days, and carnival rides are offered at a discounted price. Sweet.