Young creatives in Springfield have a reason to smile as their art takes center stage at the Illinois State Fair this year. In collaboration with Springfield Public Schools District 186, the fair unveiled the winners of the 2024 Postcard Contest, an opportunity provided to the students of Ridgely Elementary to showcase their talent. According to an Illinois government press release, these kids highlighted everything from thrilling rides to indulgent fair foods through their imaginative designs.

Each grade level at Ridgely Elementary boasted a winner, adding up to six custom-designed postcards that will be up for grabs come August. These postcards aren't just for show; fair-goers can snag one for free at the Emmerson Building and even mail them out at no cost, courtesy of the U.S. Post Office, located, at the Expo Building. The idea is to send a slice of the fair's charm to friends and family, giving them a personal touch from the young artists themselves.

Not to leave out the artistic talents of other students across District 186, the Illinois State Fair is encouraging them to submit art pieces for various categories in the Fair Art Competition. With submissions closing on July 15, students hustle to ready their paintings, drawings, and even digital creations for a shot at winning cash prizes. Details about the competition can be found on the fair's official website.

Rebecca Clark, Illinois State Fair Manager, expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership with District 186. "We appreciate our partnership with District 186 and look forward to families across the state of Illinois using a custom postcard designed by Ridgely students," she said.