Tractor pulls return to Half Century of Progress

RANTOUL, Ill. — Tractor pulls will be a highlight of the 2025 Half Century of Progress, running Aug. 21-24 at the Rantoul National Aviation Center.

Andy Buhr and Derek Harms coordinate a three-day lineup for the event. The pulls start at 4 p.m. and end around sundown.

“On Thursday, we have our show classes for the tractors that are at the event,” said Buhr, Illinois Tractor Pulling Association president.

“We’ve also got the Central Illinois Brush Pullers. They have turbo tractors and an antique class, as well as some naturally aspirated tractors.

“On Friday, the National Tractor Pulling Legend Series is going to be there. Then we have the Illiana Pullers Association and Indiana Pulling League.

“On Saturday, we have the Illinois Tractor Pulling Association bringing seven classes.”

The show classes for Thursday’s pull include 4,500 pounds, 5,500 pounds, 6,500 pounds, 8,500 pounds and 10,500 pounds.

Classes for the Central Illinois Brush Pullers include 12,500 12 mph, 12,000, 9,700 with no V8, 13,000 open mph, 5,500 antique, and 12,500 8 mph.

On Friday, IPA sanctioned classes including Outlaw and Field Stock. IPL-sanctioned classes include Farm Stock, Light Pro Stock and Hot Farm.

On Saturday, the Illinois Tractor Pulling Association sanctioned classes are: 6,850 Pro Farm, 8,500 Limited Pro, 10,500 Farm Stock and Light Super Stock. Additional classes include 5,500 Classic, 5,500 Antique and 10,000 Pro Stock.

The pulls adds an evening feature to the show, complementing a full schedule of daily field demonstrations, tractor rides and the popular Parade of Power.

Buhr looks forward to catching up with friends at the event.

“I look forward to seeing people I haven’t seen in a while,” he said. “The camaraderie is special. They are some of the best people.”

Billed as the world’s largest working vintage farm show, the Half Century of Progress combines live demonstrations with antique equipment displays, giving visitors a look at how farming has evolved through the decades.