Twilight Parade opens the 2018 Du Quoin State Fair
It was a rainy August evening to open the 2018 Du Quoin State Fair, but nothing ever stops the Twilight Parade. On friday, there were plenty of bands, floats, politicians, community organizations and queens from all over the region who proudly marched and waved to the crowds holding umbrellas on the sidelines.
Of special note was the appearance of the Du Quoin Middle School Marching Warriors - the only band that has marched in every single Du Quoin State Fair Twilight Parade, officials said.
This year was the first year the parade was held entirely on the state fairgrounds, and not on Route 51.
It was a tough day for a parade by Special Events manager Roger Brand made it work (and brought up the rear.)
Members of the local United Mine Workers of America ride in their float.
Marina Nesler, the 2018 John A. Logan College princess and the littlest Snow Angel, saves to the crowd.
Sixth grader Maggie Kellerman marches with the Du Quoin Middle School band.
State Rep. Jerry Costello greets Chad Worthington of Du Quoin.
The Du Quoin Middle School Marching Warriors march the parade route between playing.
Perry County Sheriff Steve Bareis walks the parade route.
Special Olympic Duck Derby Ambassador Sheridan Kevonne Coleman, of Carbondale, smiles for the crowd.
2018 Perry County royalty in the parade: Haley Johnston, 2018 Miss Perry County Fair Queen; Callie Wildermuth, Junior Miss Perry County Fair Queen and Milly Jones, Little Miss Perry County.
The SIU Marching Salukis.
The trombone line of the SIU Marching Band in the 2018 Du Quoin State fair Twilight Parade
Caleb Ghomes of Du Quoin, a mellophone player in the SIU marching band. See more photos on pages 6 and 7.
JON MONTGOMERY photo
Samantha Hasselbring, the 2018 Miss Illinois County Fair Queen.
Gov. Bruce Rauner strides along in the rainy 2018 Du Quoin State Fair Twilight Parade.
The Illinois State Police Color Guard was one of three color guards in the Twilight Parade.
Du Quoin Mayor Guy Alongi and Finance Commissioner Jill Kirkpatrick break out their umbrellas during the parade.
The Du Quoin Fire Department has its place of honor in the Twilight Parade. Check out the special guest peeking out of the window.