Illinois Product Expo Returns Bigger Than Ever This March

By Andi Anderson

The 27th Illinois Product Expo is set to return on March 7 and 8 with a fresh new look and a larger venue. This year, the popular event will take place inside the Exposition Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

The move comes after years of growing attendance and participation, making it necessary to shift from the smaller Orr Building to a space that can welcome more visitors and vendors.

For nearly three decades, the Illinois Product Expo has been known as a key showcase for food and goods made by Illinois businesses. The event highlights the state’s strong agricultural roots and celebrates the creativity and hard work of local producers.

Visitors can taste, purchase and learn about a wide range of items made right in Illinois, giving them the chance to support homegrown entrepreneurs.

More than 100 vendors will participate in the 2026 edition, making it one of the largest gatherings in the Expo’s history. Director Jerry Costello II shared the department’s excitement about the move, noting that the new venue will better accommodate the growing interest from both vendors and shoppers. The larger space ensures that families, students, and local supporters can comfortably explore everything the Expo has to offer.

This year’s lineup includes well-known favorites such as The Homestead Bakery, ReMARKable Caramels, Rolling Lawns Farm, Luka Popcorn, Phoenix Bean, and 17th Street BBQ.

Many new businesses will also join the event, giving visitors an exciting mix of fresh flavors and longtime classics. In addition, the Illinois Wine Experience will feature 14 wineries from across the state, allowing guests to sample and purchase Illinois-made wines.

One of the most popular promotions, the “$5 for 5” deal, will return this year. Shoppers who buy five products will receive $5 in Expo Cash as a thank-you for supporting Illinois agriculture.

The Illinois Product Expo is proudly supported by several partners, including the Illinois Department of Agriculture, Illinois Farm Bureau, Hy-Vee, Illinois Wine, Harvest Market, FFA, Prairie Farms, and Turasky Meats.

The event will take place on Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, March 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $5 per person, while children under 10, teachers, veterans, military members, and first responders can enter for free.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-jevtic