By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) has announced the first-ever Illinois Product Expo in Chicago. The two-day event will take place on October 16 and 17, 2026 at the Isadore & Sadie Dorin Forum on the East Campus of the University of Illinois Chicago. The Expo aims to connect consumers with Illinois-made products while supporting farmers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses across the state.
The event builds on the success of similar Illinois Product Expos held in Springfield and Du Quoin. This expansion to Chicago is expected to attract more than 5,000 visitors and provide local producers with an opportunity to reach a larger audience. More than 70 Illinois vendors will participate, showcasing a wide range of products made throughout the state.
Governor JB Pritzker highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “The expansion of the Illinois Product Expo to Chicago marks a major milestone in the ongoing investment to support and uplift Illinois’ agricultural community. The inaugural Chicago Product Expo will allow residents to sample and shop high-quality, home-grown products by Illinois’ farmers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. By connecting local businesses with a broader consumer base, this event will help spur local job creation, bolster communities throughout the state, and showcase what Illinois has to offer.”
Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton emphasized the importance of agriculture in everyday life, saying, "Agriculture is our number one industry—from farm to table, it touches so many aspects of life in Illinois. Coming to Chicago for the first time, this Expo is a wonderful opportunity for Chicagoans to explore the diverse range of products crafted right here at home and to see what makes Illinois agriculture so special."
Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II expressed enthusiasm about bringing the Expo to Chicago. He said, “The Illinois Product Expo has long been a staple event showcasing the incredible diversity and quality of Illinois-made products. We’re thrilled to bring this experience to Chicago and connect even more consumers with the farmers, makers, and small businesses who drive Illinois’ agricultural economy.”
Jackie Sambursky, Bureau Chief of Marketing, Promotion, and Grants, added, “This first Chicago Expo opens the door for new audiences to discover what makes Illinois products special. Whether it’s finding a new favorite snack, meeting innovative entrepreneurs, or revisiting beloved brands, the Expo offers something for everyone.”
Visitors can expect product samples, opportunities to meet Illinois producers, discover unique products, and receive a free Illinois Product bag while supplies last. Advance tickets are available online for $10 plus fees, while tickets purchased at the door will cost $15 plus fees. Organizers encourage attendees to purchase tickets in advance for a smoother experience.
The inaugural Illinois Product Expo in Chicago represents a major effort to strengthen connections between consumers and the state's agricultural community while celebrating the quality and diversity of products made in Illinois.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Illinois, Sustainable Agriculture