Illinois State Fair Bag Policy 2021

So, there I was, standing in line at the Illinois State Fair, sun beating down, the tantalizing aroma of funnel cakes wafting through the air. I'd been looking forward to this all year, but as I approached the gate, the security guard held up a hand and said, "Sorry, buddy. No bags allowed." I blinked, confused. "But... I've got my wallet, phone, sunscreen... everything's in this bag!" He just shook his head, "New policy this year. You'll have to leave it in your car or use our bag check."

And that, my friends, is how I found out about the Illinois State Fair's 2021 Bag Policy. I mean, I get it, security's a thing, but no bags at all? I was curious, so I did some digging. Turns out, this isn't just a random decision. Let's dive in, shall we?

What's the Deal with the Bag Ban?

Alright, so the Illinois State Fairgrounds have implemented a clear bag policy for the 2021 fair. Now, before you start thinking they're just being the fun police, let's talk about why. The fairgrounds are a public space, and with that comes a responsibility to ensure everyone's safety. Bags can hide all sorts of things, and with large crowds, it's just good sense to have a policy that makes it easier for security to do their job.

But don't worry, they're not leaving you high and dry. They've got a list of approved bags, and it's not as restrictive as you might think.

What Bags Are Allowed?

First off, let's talk about the clear bags. These are bags that are completely see-through, so security can take a quick peek and see what's inside. They can be any size, as long as they're clear. You know, like the kind you use for your lunch at work. Or, you know, not at work. Because who eats lunch at their desk anymore?

Now, I know what you're thinking. "But I don't want to carry around a clear bag! What if I've got... things I don't want everyone to see?" Well, fair (no pun intended) point. That's where the small clutch bags come in. These can be no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches, and they don't have to be clear. Just keep in mind, anything you bring in a clutch will be subject to inspection, so maybe leave the glitter at home?

And finally, there's the medically necessary exception. If you've got a medical condition that requires you to bring certain items, you can bring a bag that's no larger than 12 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches. But remember, this is for medical needs only. Don't try to sneak in your picnic blanket under the guise of a bad back.

Clear Bag Policy – Illinois Commencement

But What About My Stuff?

I get it, you've got stuff you need to bring. Phones, wallets, sunscreen, the list goes on. So, what are you supposed to do with all that? Well, the fairgrounds have you covered there too. They've got a bag check service. It's free, and it's located at the main gate. You can leave your bag there, grab your ticket, and then pick it up on your way out. Easy peasy.

And if you're thinking, "But I don't want to carry around a clear bag all day," well, you don't have to. You can leave it in your car, or at home. Just remember, you won't be able to bring it into the fairgrounds.

So, What's the Verdict?

Look, I get it. Change is always a bit of a pain. But this bag policy? It's not so bad. It's all about safety, and it's not like they're asking you to leave your stuff at home. You've just got to be a bit more mindful of what you bring and how you bring it. And hey, who knows? Maybe clear bags will be the new trend. You could start a whole new fashion movement. "Clear is the new black," am I right?

Anyway, that's the lowdown on the Illinois State Fair's 2021 Bag Policy. So, grab your clear bag, or your clutch, or whatever you've got, and let's get this fair started!