Illinois Products Farmers' Market To Open Next Week

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) is ready for the second year of the Illinois Products Farmers' Market (IPFM). The IPFM is a unique, evening market held on the Illinois State Fairgrounds. In addition to fresh produce, the public also will have a chance to purchase a number of other products that are solely produced or processed in Illinois.

"The Illinois Products Farmers' Market began the season last year with 13 vendors," Market Manager Kristi Kenney said. "We ended the year with more than 60 vendors and are starting this season with more than 30, so we are excited about what this year will bring."

"We expanded upon the traditional farmers' market rules by allowing not only farmers an opportunity to sell their products, but also companies that produce or process their goods in Illinois," Agriculture Director Tom Jennings said.  "We view this as a way to offer local consumers a greater variety of fresh, local food products."

One change shoppers will see is how Illinois wine is sold.  This year, a different vineyard will attend each week to promote and sell its wine. This will give guests the chance to talk to the wineries about their specific products.
      
The Illinois Products Farmers' Market (IPFM) will open next Thursday, May 14, and run every Thursday evening through Oct. 22, except during the Illinois State Fair.  It will be held in the Commodities Pavilion across the street from the Grandstand from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
For more information about the market, visit our website at www.illinoisproductmarket.com