Illinois Product Farmers Market Returns with Food Fun Prizes

By Andi Anderson

The Illinois Department of Agriculture is launching the 19th season of the Illinois Product Farmers Market on Thursday, May 7th, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at The Shed on the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.

The weekly market celebrates Illinois agriculture by connecting families directly with local growers, producers, and small businesses.

“As we kick off another season, I’m proud to see the Illinois Product Farmers Market continue to bring people together while uplifting Illinois' hardworking growers and small businesses who make it possible,” said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. "Ag connects us all, and farmers markets are about more than just fresh food on Illinoisans' tables. They’re about supporting local farmers, strengthening our communities, and expanding access to healthy options across the state.”

Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, added, “We all look forward to the first farmers market of the season as a celebration of the return of warmer weather and easy access to fresh, local foods straight from the growers themselves. Every Thursday now through September, we invite the community to join us at the Illinois State Fairgrounds to shop local.”

Opening day will feature a wide variety of attractions. Food trucks will serve barbecue, burgers, fries, and sweet treats. Families can enjoy Touch-A-Truck, balloon animals, face painting, yard games, art activities, and live music by Not Petty.

Visitors can also take part in prize drawings throughout the event and spin the Illinois Product Buy Local Prize Wheel for a chance to win gift cards, event passes, and specialty baskets. Every guest will receive a free reusable Illinois Product Market bag.

The opening-day schedule includes market opening and Touch-A-Truck at 3:30 p.m., prize drawings and kids’ activities beginning at 4:00 p.m., balloon artists and face painting at 4:30 p.m., live music at 5:00 p.m., an official ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m., additional prize drawings, and a final drawing at 7:00 p.m.

IDOA will also support nutrition access by matching every LINK dollar spent at the market, up to $25, on fruits and vegetables. Parking is available across from Gate 3 on the fairgrounds.

The market runs every Thursday from May 7 through September 24, excluding August 13, 20, and 27, with a Fall Market planned for October 10. All products sold are processed, produced, or packaged in Illinois, strengthening local food systems and supporting state agriculture.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave