illinois

J. B. Pritzke : Democratic Party

Major corridors include:
- East-west: Interstate 80, Interstate 90, Interstate 70.
- North-south: Interstate 55, Interstate 57.
- Other important interstates: Interstate 74 (across central Illinois)

Illinois State Fair in Springfield (agricultural fair, mid-August)
Bud Billiken Parade and Picnic in Chicago — the largest African-American parade in the U.S., held each August.
Chicago’s tradition of dyeing the Chicago River green for St. Patrick’s Day and major parades.
Various town-festivals: e.g., the Long Grove Strawberry Festival (June, Long Grove) and the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival (October) highlighting local harvest/seasonal themes.
Regional events like balloon races, heritage festivals, and specialty gatherings (e.g., hot-air balloon festival in Galena)

Humid continental / Humid subtropical transition climate (depending on the region)