Shop Local in ILLINOISouth!

Regional Farmers Markets Offer Unique and Tasty Goods

Over the last year, one of the phrases that we have heard A LOT is ‘support local.’ Many small businesses have obviously had a difficult time staying afloat. One of the best ways to ‘support local’ is by shopping at regional farmers markets. Over the last 25 years farmers markets have exploded in popularity. In 1994 there were less than 2,000 markets in the United States, that number now sits at over 8,600 registered farmers markets throughout the country.

Your fun fact of the day is that Illinois is THIRD in the nation for the number of farmers markets! ILLINOISouth is home to at least 20 different markets alone − in the green box to the right, you will find locations for all of the most recent farmers markets in ILLINOISouth. Please give each location a quick internet search and/ or phone call to see about hours and days of operation. As we have learned during the pandemic, things can change very quickly!

Vandalia Farmers Market in Vandalia, IL

O’Fallon is home to one of the most popular markets in our entire region. Vine Street Market at O’Fallon Station features more than just local produce; there are also meats, handmade goods, as well as fresh made drinks and food to purchase while you’re shopping around. Wine, craft brew coffee, and locally grown popcorn are just a few of the unique goods that can be found at Vine Street Market. It is also one of the only markets where you can enjoy live music while shopping! The main season for the market is every Saturday from May through October; but Vine Street Market also hosts different micro-markets and drive−thru events throughout the year − so be sure to keep an eye on their website and social media accounts for updates.

In our Central Region, the Vandalia Farmers Market operates on the second Saturday of each month from May through October. The Old State Capitol serves as a great backdrop for this market where you can find everything from plants to baked goods. There are usually more than 20 different vendors to buy from, and the Fayette County Farm Bureau often teams up with Prairie Farms to distribute free milk boxes to attendees. This market is definitely worth the trip to Vandalia!

A long running farmers market in our Eastern Region is tucked away in Jasper County. The Sainte Marie Farmers Market at Picquet Park is scheduled for every Saturday from 8am to noon, June through October. This market is arguably the biggest tourism draw to the small village of about 300 people. Vendors and shoppers alike travel from miles around to buy and sell fresh fruits, vegetables, crafts and other food.

There is no question that something unique, something delicious and something made with care can be found at each and every market throughout our region. So get out there and shop local this year!

ILLINOISouth Farmers Markets

O’Fallon Vine Street Market

Belleville

Vandalia

Sainte Marie

Robinson − Cross Street Station

McLeansboro

Centralia

Flora

Edwards County

Wayne County

Swansea

Mascoutah

Monroe County

Steeleville

Nashville

Salem

Carlyle Courthouse Square

Richland County Farmers Market

Lawrence County

Chester

Wabash County