National Illinois Day is an annual celebration dedicated to honoring the Prairie State’s rich history, culture, and contributions to American society. It’s a day to recognize Illinois’s unique heritage, from its bustling cities to its serene prairies.
Quick Facts
When is it?: December 7th annually
Tagged as: State Celebration Day
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalIllinoisDay
When was it founded?: 1984
Who founded it?: National Day Calendar
History
The day was established to commemorate Illinois’s significance as the 21st state to join the Union. Illinois has played a crucial role in American history, from being home to four U.S. presidents to its contributions to agriculture, industry, and culture.
Timeline
- 1818: Illinois becomes the 21st U.S. state
- 1837: Springfield becomes state capital
- 1871: Great Chicago Fire reshapes the city
- 1893: World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago
- 1984: National Illinois Day established
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | December 7 | Saturday |
| 2025 | December 7 | Sunday |
| 2026 | December 7 | Monday |
Observed
The day is celebrated through various activities including visiting historical sites, trying local cuisine like deep-dish pizza, and exploring state parks and landmarks.
Fun Facts About Illinois
- Known as both “Prairie State” and “Land of Lincoln”
- Home to the world’s first skyscraper
- Chicago’s O’Hare is one of the world’s busiest airports
- State flower is the violet
- State bird is the cardinal
Quiz
- When did Illinois become a state?
- What’s the capital of Illinois?
- Which U.S. president is most associated with Illinois?
-(Answers: 1818, Springfield, Abraham Lincoln)
FAQs
Q: Why is Illinois called the Prairie State?
A: Due to its vast prairies and grasslands
Q: What’s Illinois’s nickname?
A: Land of Lincoln
Importance of National Illinois Day
The day serves as a reminder of Illinois’s contributions to American culture, industry, and politics while celebrating its diverse population and rich heritage.
Related
- Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday
- Chicago Day
- National Prairie Day
- Great Lakes Awareness Day
- Route 66 Day