Got an idea for a holiday? Send it to us

Submit Now

National Illinois Day
202 Shares
202 Shares
SatDec 7

National Illinois Day – December 7, 2024

National Illinois Day is celebrated annually on December 7, and it is a day to commemorate one of the nation’s most exquisite states. Did you know that Illinois was the 21st state to join the United States? It is known to be associated with many prominent U.S. politicians in history and is a remarkable Midwest state with many museums, attractions, traditional food, entertainment, and other great local activities.

History of National Illinois Day

The state of Illinois is situated in the Midwestern part of the United States. The state has the sixth-largest population, the 25th largest land area, and the fifth-largest gross domestic product (GDP). Nicknamed ‘the Prairie State’, the state’s main motto is “State Sovereignty, National Union”. It is famous for agricultural productivity, dairy products, manufacturing, and soybeans production. It is also a pioneer in food and meat processing. It is notable for cattle production and is a well-established state in social, cultural, and political views.

The state is a major transportation hub with road networks and routes connecting to international ports via its proximity to Lake Michigan. Some of its boundaries are formed by the Mississippi River, Ohio River, and Wabash River.

When farmers started settling on the Illinois prairie, they discovered that the thick soil was not easy to sow. Then, a Vermont blacksmith named John Deere made the work easier with the invention of the steel plow that cut soil more efficiently than previous tools. Afterward, railroads and shipping lines grew with farms in the rich prairies as settlers spread across the state.

A number of past U.S. presidents including Ronald Reagan, Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, and Barack Obama are known to consider Illinois as home.

Traveling around the state, one can glimpse the wonders of nature through the designs of Floyd Lloyd Wright. One can also take a tour to enjoy his architecture in Oak Park, Starved Rock State Park, and Horseshoe Mound. With so much to explore and see, Illinois is truly a place for urban and outdoor enjoyment.

National Illinois Day timeline

1783
Merges with the Country

Illinois comes under the control of the United States and the Federal Government.

1818
Independent State

Illinois gains exclusive power to coordinate its own affairs.

20th Century
Coal Mining Gains Popularity

The residents of Illinois and those from neighboring states begin to explore the coal reserves in the state.

2017
Official State Grain

Corn, which accounts for 54% of the total state’s agricultural commodities, is named the official Illinois State grain.

National Illinois Day FAQs

How did Illinois get its name?

The word Illinois is said to have been derived from the Native American word ‘illiniwek’, which literally means ‘tribe of superior men’.

Is Illinois a good place to live in?

Illinois is a great state that boasts lots of outdoor entertainment, a bustling food scene, and many natural attractions. The living experience it offers is exceptional.

How many flags has Illinois had?

The state has had two official state flags. The first came into use on July 6, 1915, after Mrs. Ella Park Lawrence’s active campaign. The second one started being used in 1970.

How To Celebrate National Illinois Day

  1. Visit fun sites with friends and family

    There are many cool, entertaining, and historical places including Abraham Lincoln historical sites and his presidential library, located in Illinois. Pay a visit to some of these places and have a good time with family and friends.

  2. Explore the history of the state

    Illinois has a very rich history that dates back centuries. Read up about the history or talk to knowledgeable people to learn more.

  3. Prepare a popular Illinois meal

    One recipe you can try out on this day is the Chicago-style hotdogs. Start with a hot dog on a poppy-seed bun, then add yellow mustard, sweet relish, onions, tomatoes, peppers, pickles, and celery salt, and enjoy your tasty meal.

5 Facts About Illinois State That Will Fascinate You

  1. It wasn’t always independent

    Initially, Illinois was part of New France and then was under La Louisiane until 1763.

  2. It is a culinary giant

    The state is home to tantalizing dishes including deep dish pizza, the horseshoe sandwich, and a potato dumpling-like staple known as pierogi.

  3. Home to one of the busiest airports

    It is famous for O’ Hare International Airport, which is one of the world’s busiest airports.

  4. It has many remarkable places of interest

    The state is famous for many historical museums such as The Adler Planetarium, Museum of Natural History, Easley Pioneer Museum, and Shedd Aquarium.

  5. It is a pioneer

    It was the first of four states to choose the violet as its state flower and the first of seven to select the northern cardinal as its state bird.

Why We Love National Illinois Day

  1. It brings family and friends together

    During the state’s celebrations, people also travel in from other states. The day facilitates the coming together of family and friends, and allows them to reconnect again.

  2. Illinois is welcoming

    With all the remarkable sites and places in the state, anyone would always feel at home here.

  3. It promotes unity

    The day enables diverse people to spend time with each other and share the common bond they have with the state. This helps breed the spirit of unity among everyone.

National Illinois Day dates

YearDateDay
2024December 7Saturday
2025December 7Sunday
2026December 7Monday
2027December 7Tuesday
2028December 7Thursday

Holidays Straight to Your Inbox

Every day is a holiday!
Receive fresh holidays directly to your inbox.