By Andi Anderson
The Illinois Product Expo is back, celebrating its 26th year on March 1-2 at the Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds. This annual event, organized by the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA), highlights the best local food, beverages, and agricultural products.
Attendees will have the chance to sample a variety of products, shop for their favorites, and experience the Illinois Wine Garden, where 14 wineries will showcase their best selections.
Vendors include The Homestead Bakery, ReMARKable Caramels, Ropp Jersey Cheese, Phoenix Bean, Turasky Meats, and many more.
“This family-friendly event gets bigger and better every year,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. “With a mix of established vendors and first-time exhibitors, it’s a great way to shop local and explore new Illinois products.”
New vendors this year include Siddity Pig Pork Snacks, The Infused Olive, and Luka Popcorn. Cooking demonstrations featuring Copi fish, in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, will also be a key attraction.
Shoppers can take advantage of the popular "$5 for 5" promotion—buy five products and receive $5 Expo Cash as a thank-you for supporting local businesses.
The event is sponsored by IDOA, Illinois Farm Bureau, Hy-Vee, Illinois Wine, Harvest Market, FFA, Prairie Farms, and Turasky Meats.
Event Details:
- Dates: Saturday, March 1 (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) and Sunday, March 2 (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.)
- Location: Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, Springfield, IL
- Admission: $5 per person (children 10 and under are free)
For more details, visit www.illinoisproductexpo.com. Illinois food companies interested in participating can contact the IDOA Bureau of Marketing at 217-782-2581 or agr.illinoisproduct@illinois.gov.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle