Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) has announced the commencement of the 18th season of the Illinois Product Farmers Market. The event is set to begin on Thursday, May 15, from 3:30 to 7 p.m. at The Shed located on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

"The opening of the farmers market is the unofficial kickoff of summer," said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. "Mark your calendar now and make plans to join us every Thursday through September for fresh, local products, live entertainment and Illinois wine."

Opening day promises a variety of attractions including food offerings from Nuthatch Hill BBQ, Leo's Pizza on Wheels, and Johnnie O's Mini Donuts. Families can enjoy activities such as Touch-A-Truck, free balloon animals, face painting, yard games, and interactions with animals from Henson Robinson Zoo and Springfield Park District.

Entertainment will feature live music by Not Petty along with giveaways sponsored by the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. Visitors will also have access to limited-edition merchandise like hats and shopping bags while supplies last.

Throughout the day, prize drawings will occur with offerings such as gift cards and event passes. A special feature is the Illinois Product Buy Local Prize Wheel where participants can win prizes from local businesses including SkyZone and Yellowbird Coffee House.

Every visitor receives a complimentary reusable market bag for their purchases. Additionally, IDOA offers a LINK Match program doubling funds spent in Link for fruits and vegetables up to $25.

The venue can be accessed via Gate 3 at the fairgrounds with parking available nearby. Sponsors include various local organizations such as Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association and Lincoln Land Community College.

The market operates every Thursday until September 25 except June 19 and during two Thursdays coinciding with the Illinois State Fair. An additional fall market is scheduled for October 11.

All items sold are locally processed or produced within Illinois. Interested vendors may still apply by contacting agr.farmersmarket@illinois.gov or visiting www.illinoisproductfarmersmarket.com for more details.