Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – There will be more food at this year’s Illinois State Fair, and at least some of it will be not all that expensive.

As fair officials say they are doing the best they can to make the fair affordable for families despite the tough economy, that includes affordable meals.

“Inside the Reisch Pavilion, our ‘$5 Fix’ promotion means vendors in this area will offer a $5 food item all day, every day, at the fair,” said Rebecca Clark, State Fair Manager.  “In the Village of Cultures, vendors will be offering a $3 food item, as part of our ‘Small Plates, Big Taste’ promotion.  That’s all day, every day.”

Clark says more than 120 food booths will be available throughout the fairgrounds.

And, she says in the annual “Golden Abe Awards” food competition, of the 25 entries so far, 15 are from first-time participants.  Judges will name their favorites after the start of the fair, on August 14.  But, visitors will have their chance to help vote for the “People’s Choice” award to be named August 21.  One of the Golden Abe entrants will be quite unique, said Clark:  a “jalapeno lemonade.”

Even dairy products will, as always, be a big part of the fair, with one bit of dairy goodness getting the “Route 66” treatment at the fair.  The annual “Flavor of the Fair” — a special milkshake — will be offered by the Midwest Dairy Association.

“Fairgoers can choose a rich and creamy vanilla or chocolate milkshake, layered with colorful candy chocolate pieces, for a fun, nostalgic treat, inspired by the Illinois State Fair’s theme:  ‘Miles of Smiles,'” said Kendra Anderson, Farmer Relations Manager, Midwest Dairy Association.”

This will be the fourth year of the “Flavor of the Fair.”

Speaking of dairy, the fair says after a few year hiatus, visitors can once again get what may be a new experience for them:  milking a cow.