Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) has announced the commencement of its 17th annual Illinois Product Farmers Market on Thursday, May 16. The event will take place from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at The Shed on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton expressed her admiration for farmers markets, stating, "Farmers markets have a special place in my heart, bringing together the community and expanding access to fresh, nourishing local food and products." She further commended the market's continuous operation for 17 years and expressed gratitude towards the farmers, growers, and vendors who have contributed to its longevity.

Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, highlighted that this annual event is not only a celebration of local agriculture but also an excellent platform for small to mid-sized businesses offering Illinois products. He invited the community to join them every Thursday through September at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

Attendees can enjoy classic fair food from Coleman's Concessions and Johnnie O's Mini Donuts among others. IDOA will enhance the experience with complimentary entertainment including Touch-A-Truck, free balloon animals and face painting, activities with Mini O'Beirne Crisis Nursery, Tie Dye crafting, market play, yard games, zoo animals from Henson Robinson Zoo and Springfield Park District as well as live music by Not Petty.

Every attendee will receive a free Illinois Product reusable bag. There will also be opportunities to win prizes such as tickets to shows like Fairytales on Ice and Truck and Tractor Pulls or other gifts like a bottle of Illinois wine or an AARP Illinois Product Basket filled with goodies from market vendors.

The IDOA has pledged to match every dollar spent in LINK at the Illinois Product Farmers Market. If attendees spend $25 in LINK, they will receive an additional $25 in LINK Match to spend on fruits and vegetables.

The 2024 Illinois Product Farmers Market is sponsored by various organizations including the Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association, Illinois State Fair, AARP Illinois, Lincoln Land Community College, and the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

The market will be held every Thursday from May 16th through September 26th with a few exceptions. The Fall Market will take place on Saturday, October 12th. All products sold at the market are processed, produced, or packaged in the state of Illinois. Interested vendors can apply for space at the 2024 market by contacting agr.farmersmarket@illinois.gov.