The Illinois State Fair has announced the winners of the 2025 Twilight Parade.
The parade took place on the evening of Aug. 7, and featured a variety of participants, including marching bands, specialty units, non-commercial floats and commercial floats, according to a community announcement.
Marching band performances showcase musical talent
The Mighty Marching Machine from Richton Park took first place in the Marching Band Contest. The Rich Township High School Band program has earned numerous awards over the past 15 years, including wins at the Chicago Classic Battle of the Bands and the Indianapolis Circle City Classic Parade.
The Rochester Marching Rockets secured second place. Formed in the 1950s, the band will also perform at the Pana Labor Day Parade and Disney World in March.
The Auburn Marching Trojans placed third. They have participated in various parades and competitions, including marching through Magic Kingdom at Disney World.
Specialty units recognized for creativity
In the Specialty Units category, the Cool Cruisers Car Club from Edinburg won first place. The club, the largest in central Illinois, features vehicles from 1969 to 2024 and hosts cruise-ins from spring to fall.
Zwei Dumm, a Springfield-based clown troupe, took second place. Formed in 2023, the group entertains with dance, improv and music.
The Lanphier High School Cheer and Poms team placed third. Under the direction of coach Haley Varela, the team performs at over 40 football and basketball games during the school year. They will showcase their talents on the last day of the fair in the Sangamon County Cheer and Dance Showcase at the Illinois Building.
Non-commercial floats highlight community involvement
The Springfield Youth Hockey League won first place in the Non-Commercial Floats category. The Springfield Kings Youth Hockey Association has provided opportunities for children ages 3-18 since 1961, focusing on sportsmanship and fair play.
Sustainable Springfield, a nonprofit dedicated to environmental well-being, took second place. The organization promotes action through working groups involving businesses, educators and community advocates, focusing on waste reduction, climate change and habitat restoration.
Commercial floats showcase local businesses
B’s Creative Studio in Springfield won first place in the Commercial Floats category. The studio aims to support local artists and provide a space for creativity and learning.
Sunroom Inc., a tanning business operating for over 37 years, placed second. The company has expanded from a single salon in 1987 to seven locations throughout central Illinois.
Bank of Springfield took third place. With service locations in Illinois and Missouri, the bank focuses on understanding customer goals and helping them achieve their aspirations.
Governor’s Sweepstakes Award goes to Hope
The Governor’s Sweepstakes Award, which recognizes the first overall entry, was awarded to Hope. Established in 1957, Hope is a nonprofit agency serving individuals with disabilities and their families across six states. The organization provides educational, residential and clinical services, impacting over 6,000 individuals annually.
For more information, visit the Illinois State Fair website.
This story was created by reporter Abreanna Blose, [email protected], with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Twilight Parade winners at Illinois State Fair 2025
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