National Illinois Day

Categories:: Federal
Tags:: American Civic Historical
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every December 7
Holiday emoji:: 🇺🇸

National Illinois Day commemorates the Prairie State every December 7. Celebrate its pivotal role in American history, its vibrant cities, and its natural beauty. Explore its museums, enjoy local cuisine, and support Illinois-based businesses.

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Expected National Illinois Day Deals

On National Illinois Day, look for local businesses and attractions across Illinois to offer special promotions and discounts. While we await official 2027 programs, history shows that institutions like the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum often host free events, and local restaurants, including favorites like Portillo’s, might feature special Illinois-themed dishes. Retailers such as Macy’s (with its historic Chicago presence) and grocery chains like Jewel-Osco may highlight Illinois-made products. Keep an eye out for deals from regional brands like State Farm and local breweries. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as December 7 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Illinois Day

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalIllinoisDay. Share historical facts, famous Illinoisans, or favorite state landmarks.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalIllinoisDay. Post photos of your favorite Illinois spots or memories.

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalIllinoisDay. Highlight Illinois-based companies or career opportunities in the state.

National Illinois Day Hero

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. President, spent much of his formative and professional life in Illinois, earning the state its 'Land of Lincoln' moniker. From his early days in New Salem to his legal career in Springfield, Illinois shaped his character and political ascent. His legacy as a unifier and emancipator is deeply intertwined with the state's identity, making him a central figure in Illinois history.

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

When is National Illinois Day?

National Illinois Day 2026 falls on Monday, December 7, a day to celebrate the rich history and vibrant culture of the Prairie State.

What is Illinois known for?

Illinois is widely known as the ‘Land of Lincoln,’ recognizing Abraham Lincoln’s significant time in the state. It’s also famous for Chicago’s iconic skyline, deep-dish pizza, blues music, and its pivotal role in American agriculture and industry.

How many people live in Illinois?

As of recent estimates, Illinois is home to approximately 12.5 million residents, making it the sixth most populous state in the United States. Its population is diverse, with a significant concentration in the Chicago metropolitan area.

Is National Illinois Day a federal holiday?

No, National Illinois Day is not a federal holiday. It is a commemorative day observed annually to celebrate the state’s admission to the Union, but it is not a day when federal offices or banks are closed.

How To Celebrate National Illinois Day

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.
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.
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

It wasn’t always independent
Initially, Illinois was part of New France and then was under La Louisiane until 1763.
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.
Home to one of the busiest airports
It is famous for O’ Hare International Airport, which is one of the world’s busiest airports.
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.
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

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