ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE ANNOUNCES FIRST-EVER ILLINOIS PRODUCT EXPO - CHICAGO

CHICAGO, IL - The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) is excited to announce the first-ever Illinois Product Expo in Chicago, taking place Friday, Oct. 16, and Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Isadore & Sadie Dorin Forum on the East Campus of the University of Illinois Chicago.

"The expansion of the Illinois Product Expo to Chicago marks a major milestone in the ongoing investment to support and uplift Illinois' agricultural community," said Governor JB Pritzker. "The inaugural Chicago Product Expo will allow residents to sample and shop high-quality, home-grown products by Illinois' farmers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. By connecting local businesses with a broader consumer base, this event will help spur local job creation, bolster communities throughout the state, and showcase what Illinois has to offer."

"Agriculture is our number one industry-from farm to table, it touches so many aspects of life in Illinois," said Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. "Coming to Chicago for the first time, this Expo is a wonderful opportunity for Chicagoans to explore the diverse range of products crafted right here at home and to see what makes Illinois agriculture so special."

Expanding the long-standing success of the Springfield Illinois Product Expo and Du Quoin Illinois Product Expo, the Chicago Illinois Product Expo 2026 brings more than 70 Illinois vendors together for a two-day celebration of Illinois products. More than 5,000 attendees are expected to join this inaugural event, offering Chicago-area consumers a unique opportunity to sample, shop, and connect with producers from across the state.

"The Illinois Product Expo has long been a staple event showcasing the incredible diversity and quality of Illinois-made products," said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. "We're thrilled to bring this experience to Chicago and connect even more consumers with the farmers, makers, and small businesses who drive Illinois' agricultural economy."

"This first Chicago Expo opens the door for new audiences to discover what makes Illinois products special," said Jackie Sambursky, Bureau Chief of Marketing, Promotion, and Grants. "Whether it's finding a new favorite snack, meeting innovative entrepreneurs, or revisiting beloved brands, the Expo offers something for everyone."

Advance tickets are available online for $10 (plus fees), providing attendees with a convenient and cost effective way to secure entry ahead of time. Tickets purchased at the door will be $15 (plus fees). Guests are encouraged to buy tickets in advance to ensure quicker entry and a smoother Expo experience.

What to Expect:

• More than 70 Illinois vendors
• Product samples throughout the Expo
• Opportunities to meet Illinois producers
• New and unique Illinois products
• FREE Illinois Product bag (while supplies last)

Event Details

Friday, October 16

12 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday, October 17

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Location:

Isadore & Sadie Dorin Forum

University of Illinois Chicago, East Campus

725 W. Roosevelt Rd.

Chicago, IL 60608