Foodies and fans of local flavors, get ready to rejoice at the 25th Illinois Product Expo, set to tempt taste buds at the Illinois State Fairgrounds this weekend. The annual event, happening March 2 through March 3, promises a spicy mix of mouthwatering goodies and will shine the spotlight on numerous homegrown companies, according to a press release from the Illinois Department of Agriculture.
Those early birds eager to dive into the expo experience might just score a limited-edition commemorative cup, with the first 25 through the doors snagging one; plus, the early purchase of apple cider slushies comes with this anniversary premium for the first 250 buyers, a serious incentive for anyone hankering for those tangy treats, and collecting memories is just as sweet when they're from your own backyard. "The 25th Illinois Product Expo is a fun and family-friendly way to showcase Illinois food and agriculture-based companies," Jackie Sambursky, IDOA Bureau Chief of Marketing, stated in a press release.
Over 70 vendors will roll out their best products for sampling and sale, with regional darlings like The Homestead Bakery, ReMARKable Caramels, and Uncle Joe's Sauces preparing to make a splash. The Illinois Wine Experience will not be left out, offering selections from 16 local wineries to those with a taste for the vine. The expo also tempts shoppers with a savory deal—the "$5 for 5 promotion," gifting $5 Expo Cash to anyone who buys five products, a sweet thank-you for supporting the local economy.
Sponsored by the Illinois Department of Agriculture and partnered with big names like the Illinois Farm Bureau and HyVee, families can drop by from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and round out their weekend with some local love until 3 p.m. on Sunday, while adults shell out $5 for admission, the kids (10 and under) can tag along for free, making it a budget-friendly affair for all ages and with the expo's extensive vendor space being completely sold out, it's clear that this year is expected to be the biggest and best yet. For those companies who missed out on nabbing a booth at the expo, the Illinois Department of Agriculture is ready to offer information on other opportunities via the Bureau of Marketing, Promotion, and Grants at 217-782-2581 or a direct visit to their website.
