Springfield, IL – The results are in from one of the Illinois State Fair’s signature traditions, with marching bands, floats and specialty units earning top honors in the 2026 Miles of Smiles Parade.
According to the Illinois State Fair, the winners were selected following the parade held Thursday evening in Springfield. Normal Marching Band, from Normal, captured first place in the marching band competition.
Rochester High School’s Marching Rockets finished second, while the Golden Wave Marching Band from Farmington Central High School placed third. Rich Township High School’s Mighty Marching Machine, the 2025 winner, returned this year as the Honor Band.
Springfield organizations dominated the commercial float category. The Sunroom Tanning took first place, followed by Bank of Springfield in second and Illinois National Bank in third.
In the non-commercial float competition, America’s Eagle of Georgetown earned first place. HSHS St. John’s Hospital finished second, while the Springfield Youth Hockey Association placed third.
Lanphier High School Cheer and Lionettes won the specialty unit category, followed by Visit Springfield and the Cool Cruisers Car Club of Edinburg.
HOPE, a Springfield-based nonprofit serving people with disabilities and their families, received the Governor’s Award. Established in 1957, the organization provides educational, residential and clinical services across six states. According to the fair, HOPE’s programs for children with multiple disabilities impact more than 6,000 people annually.
The parade honors come as the 2026 Illinois State Fair continues in Springfield. Fairgoers still have several days to attend, with festivities scheduled through Sunday, Aug. 23.
Additional fair schedules, announcements and visitor information are available through the Illinois State Fair website.
