Skip to main content

Possible online services disruption due to Internet related outage

A worldwide technology outage is causing disruption to some State of Illinois online systems.  We are aware of this issue and are diligently working on restoration.

The Illinois State Museum headquarters facility located on Spring Street in Springfield will be temporarily closed beginning August 1, 2024, for a construction project. Learn more.

Illinois Department of Natural Resources

Illinois History Day - May 1, 2025


Illinois History Day provides an opportunity for students to write papers and create exhibits, websites, documentaries, and performances on a topic of their choosing.  This 6-12 grade program sparks students’ interest in history and helps them hone critical thinking and research skills.  Students work with their teachers and supporters in the fall to create a project that is then presented for competition at one of the regional history fairs across Illinois in the spring.  In order to advance to Illinois History Day students must qualify at one of the regional competitions.

 

JUDGES WANTED!

We need your help!  Would you like to help students make history?  Consider volunteering to evaluate projects for Illinois History Day.  Learn more about judging at Illinois History Day and let us know if you are interested by emailing Laura.Mitchelle@illinois.gov!

National History Day - June 8 - 12, 2025


The 2025 National History Day theme is Rights & Responsibilities in History. The following resources are available to start defining your topic and begin your research. Check out theme resources and start your research today!

This year’s theme invites you to consider questions of time and place, cause and effect, change over time, and impact and significance. 

The key to this theme is addressing BOTH rights AND responsibilities. These are two powerful forces in history, but one does not work without the other.

Regional History Day Competitions


Regional competitions are held in early Spring in each of the regions listed below.  Top scorers at these competitions will qualify to compete at the State competition. Click on the region below to learn more about those events. Download the Illinois History Day Regions map.



Northern Illinois

Chicago Metro

Central Illinois

Southern Illinois