Max Armstrong is excited. The iconic farm broadcaster and Indiana native is looking forward to three big events, starting with the Half Century of Progress Show, Aug. 24-27 in Rantoul, Ill. Next is the one-of-a-kind tractor drive planned for only Farmall tractors, including International and Case IH models, on Aug. 28. Armstrong will lead an all-red tractorcade to the gates of the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, Ill.

“We’re actually going through the gates to park in an area almost as big as a football field,” Armstrong says. “Tractors will be on display for Farm Progress Show visitors all three days of the show. The Farm Progress Show is the third event which really has me excited.”

Farm Progress Show dates are Aug. 29-31.

Celebrate history

Just like it did before the 50th anniversary Farm Progress Show in 2003, the Half Century of Progress Show will kick off this year’s FPS, which is celebrating 70 years. The Half Century of Progress event is held in Rantoul every other year, when the Farm Progress Show returns to Decatur.

John Fredrickson, Kentland, Ind., is one of the organizers for the Half Century of Progress Show. “I get excited just like Max every time it comes around,” he says. “We encourage everyone to come and bring their favorite older tractor and implements for the static display and to work in the field. Visitors get a chance to see what the old equipment can do.”

All the information you need is at the official show website: halfcenturyofprogress.com.

Don’t miss out

Here are key details about the 2023 Half Century of Progress Show:

Tractor ride. Max Armstrong’s Tractor Ride opens the event. Find a registration form on the website.

Location. The show is held at the former Chanute Field Air Base, now the Rantoul National Aviation Center, in Rantoul, Ill.

Dates and times. Gates open at 7 a.m. CDT daily Aug. 24-27 and close after the tractor pulls. Expect a late-afternoon closing time on Aug. 27.

Admission. Tickets are $20 per day or $40 for a four-day pass; children 12 and under are free.

Golf carts, ATVs. You can bring your own, but there is a $40 tag fee, good for all days of the show.

Golf cart rental is available but sells out before the show. Call ahead. No motorcycles, mopeds or bicycles are allowed on the grounds.

Lodging. Three commercial campgrounds are in the area. Dry camping is permitted outside the general admission gate; no reservations are required, but call 217-799-7775 for information. Numerous hotels are also within easy driving distance.

Participation. Bring your tractor, combine or corn picker to display and/or work in the field. Working time will be limited, and slower speeds are encouraged. When you arrive, register your tractor at the registration tent north of Hangar 2.

Special events. International Harvester Collectors Central Illinois Chapter 10 members are organizing a display of “100 years of Farmalls.” The goal is to have a tractor represent each year Farmalls were produced, beginning in 1924. Visit centralillinoisihcollectors.com.

Beck’s is also sponsoring the 2023 Family Heritage Tractor Legacy Lineup for tractors in the same farm family for many years. Call 217-595-5000 for details.

The largest flying American flag will again fly at the show grounds. It measures 65 by 120 feet.