The Illinois Department of Agriculture has announced that the Illinois Product Expo will return to a new venue this year. The event is scheduled for Saturday, March 7, and Sunday, March 8, at the Exposition Building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield. The move comes after the Expo outgrew its previous location at the Orr Building.
For nearly three decades, the Illinois Product Expo has showcased food products made in Illinois, connecting local businesses with consumers. This year’s event will feature over 100 vendors from across the state.
“We’re excited to move to a larger venue to accommodate a record number of Illinois companies at the 2026 Illinois Product Expo,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. “With more than 100 vendors participating, the Expo offers consumers who are passionate about supporting local businesses a convenient, one-stop opportunity to shop Illinois products.”
Jackie Sambursky, Bureau Chief of Marketing at IDOA, added: “This year’s Illinois Product Expo brings together an exciting mix of innovative new businesses and beloved longtime favorites. It’s a unique opportunity for shoppers to sample an incredible variety of Illinois-made products, connect with the people behind them, and take home their favorite flavors and finds.”
Among this year’s featured vendors are The Homestead Bakery, ReMARKable Caramels, Rolling Lawns Farm, Luka Popcorn, Siddity Pig Pork Snacks, Phoenix Bean, Turasky Meats, Engrained Brewing Company and 17th Street BBQ. The event will also include the Illinois Wine Experience with wines from 14 different wineries available for tasting and purchase.
A promotion called $5 for 5 will allow attendees who buy five products to receive $5 in Expo Cash as an incentive for supporting local agriculture.
The event is sponsored by several organizations including the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA), which promotes agricultural development in the state and oversees programs related to livestock welfare and food safety inspections. More information about these services can be found on their official website. Other sponsors include Hy-Vee, Prairie Farms and Turasky Meats.
Admission is $5 per person; children under ten years old as well as veterans, military personnel, teachers and first responders may attend free of charge.
Additional details can be found at illinoisproductexpo.com or by contacting IDOA’s Bureau of Marketing.
