Raspberry Crunch is 2024 Flavor of the Fair

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — More than 630,000 fairgoers will have the opportunity to experience dairy in a new, fun way during the Illinois State Fair.

For the second year in a row, Midwest Dairy is introducing a Flavor of the Fair ice cream treat that can be found at the Dairy Goodness Bar.

This year’s Flavor of the Fair is a Raspberry Crunch shake featuring creamy vanilla soft-serve ice cream with layers of whole raspberries and granola.

“The Flavor of the Fair item was a welcomed addition and became very popular last year at the Dairy Goodness Bar,” said Bill Deutsch, Illinois dairy farmer.

“I encourage all fairgoers to stop by for a delicious and refreshing ice cream treat while enjoying the Illinois State Fair. Your local Illinois dairy farmer thanks you for the support.”

The Dairy Goodness Bar offers other delicious dairy foods, including various ice cream cones, cold milk and cream puffs. The menu also features vanilla, chocolate and strawberry shake flavors.

The building — located on Central Avenue next to the Illinois Fire Museum — is open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Besides ice cream, you can enjoy and learn about dairy in various ways during the Illinois State Fair. Fairgoers will have the opportunity to experience dairy in the livestock buildings and at the Dairy Building.

Inside the Dairy Building, you’ll find many family-friendly activities and fun photo opportunities. Don’t forget to stop by the Butter Cow and participate in the Butter Cow Heart Hunt.

Dairy ambassadors and interns will be present throughout the fair to speak about life on a farm and answer questions about the dairy industry.

“Dairy products are versatile, and we are excited to bring a new Flavor of the Fair to fairgoers this year to prove just that,” said Kendra Anderson, Midwest Dairy Illinois farmer relations manager.

“The dairy industry is important to Illinois, and we are excited to bring dairy to life for fairgoers through educational opportunities and cold dairy treats at the fair.

“Checkoff appreciates the opportunity for the people of Illinois to connect with farmers and learn more about where their food comes from, which is more valuable than ever as more and more people become removed from agriculture.”

The Illinois State Fair runs Aug. 8-18. For more information, visit https://statefair.illinois.gov.