The Illinois Department of Agriculture announced on Apr. 30 that the 19th season of the Illinois Product Farmers Market will open Thursday, May 7, from 3:30 to 7:00 p.m. at The Shed on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
The market aims to bring together local growers, small businesses and community members while expanding access to fresh foods and supporting farmers across Illinois. Attendees can expect a variety of vendors, food trucks, cooking demonstrations and live entertainment each week.
Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton said, “As we kick off another season, I’m proud to see the Illinois Product Farmers Market continue to bring people together while uplifting Illinois’ hardworking growers and small businesses who make it possible. Ag connects us all, and farmers markets are about more than just fresh food on Illinoisans’ tables. They’re about supporting local farmers, strengthening our communities, and expanding access to healthy options across the state.”
Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, said: “We all look forward to the first farmers market of the season as a celebration of the return of warmer weather and easy access to fresh, local foods straight from the growers themselves. Every Thursday now through September, we invite the community to join us at the Illinois State Fairgrounds to shop local.”
Opening day activities include backyard barbecue from Nuthatch Hill BBQ; burgers from Edinburgers; sweet treats by Johnnie O’s Mini Donuts; Touch-A-Truck; balloon animals; face painting; yard games; Springfield Art Association Make Truck; live music by Not Petty; prize drawings for gift cards and event passes (must be present); free reusable bags for visitors; a Buy Local Prize Wheel with items from area businesses including Skateland and Happy Hour Pilates; an Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum pass; HyVee products; wines from local wineries and an Illinois Product Basket filled with goods from vendors.
Each dollar spent using Link benefits will be matched up to $25 per person for fruits or vegetables at this market location. The Shed is accessible via Gate 3 at fairgrounds with parking nearby.
According to its official website, the department supports public service by aiding farmers and promoting agricultural economic strength throughout Illinois. It annually tests over 91,000 commercial weighing devices and provides funding for county fairs statewide according to its official website. Its programs also protect animal health—achieving disease-free status in several livestock sectors—and provide services like egg inspection or fuel quality testing according to its official website.
All products sold are processed or packaged within state lines as part of ongoing efforts by IDOA—which serves all regions through regulatory initiatives—to promote agriculture’s value in everyday life according to its official website.
The weekly event runs every Thursday until September 24 (except August dates) with a fall market scheduled October 10.
