You know how some sights or smells just take you back? Come with us on a nostalgic journey of things that Illinoisans hold dear. For most, good memories are associated with these activities, so sit back and relax with this sweet list.

Be prepared for a few tugs on those heartstrings and keep scrolling for 10 things Illinoisans think of fondly.

1. The local fair

Each year, small towns all over the state host festivals celebrating everything from Jack-O-Lanterns to beer. The smell of fried food and cigarettes instantly transports you to your county carnival.

2. The smell of fresh-cut grass

This means many different things for different people. For some, it is the smell of spring and the first mow of the year. For others, it is a reminder of football and soccer season.

3. Renting movies

Redbox doesn't count. Though most Blockbusters and Hollywood Videos have gone away, Family Video still sticks around for those of us who need that experience of having a due date for DVDs (aka don't know anyone with Netflix).

4. Back-to-school shopping

As soon as you see the kiosk of supply lists - you know. There's something about a store full of brand new markers, scissors, backpacks, and binders that makes you nostalgic for shopping with mom or dad back in the day.

5. Raking leaves

It's hard to see a yard full of leaves and not want to rake them into a pile. Harder still is seeing a pile of leaves and trying not to jump in it. The crunch and crackle combined with the smell of decaying tree matter is like an autumn paradise.

6. The smell of bonfires

Either camping or just hanging out in the backyard, Illinoisans love to have a fire. Anytime you smell that sweet smoke, it instantly takes you back to your favorite place to toast marshmallows and sing songs.

7. Saturday morning cartoons

Whether you were watching Pepper Ann or Spongebob Squarepants, the first day of the weekend used to be for cartoons (and maybe still is in your household). These childhood classics are so popular that many keep DVD box sets of the seasons.

8. The local fish fry

Typically just once per year, there will be a church, fire station, or other organization frying up a plethora of fish for locals to come out and eat. Bringing the community together, it's hard not to resist a visit to one of these eating extravaganzas.

9. Playing in the snow

As a child, making snow angels and building snowmen was the height of life. As an adult, we can't figure out why we were so enthralled with playing in the freezing cold and ultimately getting all wet.

10. Holiday lights

There's nothing that makes people more nostalgic than the fall/winter holidays. From Thanksgiving to New Year's, holiday lights adorn buildings, houses, and streets all across the state, reminding us that it's a special time of year.

For many Illinoisans, trains are another source of nostalgia. Check out this little-known train park hiding in the state.

What memories do these nostalgic subjects bring up? Share your thoughts with us!