Celebrating Illinois Farmers Markets During National Farmers Market Week
Jun 30, 2026 ● By Libby Ervin, Executive Director, Illinois Farmers Market Association
Photo credit Bob Benenson
Photo credit Bob Benenson
National Farmers Market Week, observed this year from August 2 to 8, highlights the vital role farmers markets play in our nation’s food system. The Illinois Farmers Market Association (ILFMA) celebrates farmers markets and their impact on their local communities. From city blocks to suburban parks and small-town squares, farmers markets offer more than fresh produce—they serve as vibrant gathering places where local food culture and small businesses thrive.
Every summer, something special happens across Illinois—neighbors gather, farmers share their harvests and communities come alive at farmers markets from Chicago’s bustling neighborhoods to the quiet corners of rural downstate. National Farmers Market Week is our moment to celebrate that magic.
Illinois is home to hundreds of farmers markets, each one a vibrant hub connecting residents with the freshest locally grown produce, handcrafted goods and the hardworking people that make it all possible. When you shop at a farmers market, you’re not just buying tomatoes or sweet corn—you’re investing in a neighbor’s livelihood, supporting sustainable agriculture and keeping dollars circulating right here in our state.
The economic impact is real. Illinois farmers markets generate revenue for small-scale producers, helping family farms thrive in an increasingly challenging agricultural landscape. But the benefits go beyond dollars. Markets foster community bonds, promote healthier eating habits and give families direct access to nutritious, seasonal food.
More than 100 farmers markets in Illinois accept Link, the Illinois Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and offer Link Match, doubling the value of Link purchases at farmers markets that can be used to purchase fruits and vegetables.
Join ILFMA on July 13 for our free Market Mondays webinar, where we will be discussing ways to celebrate National Farmers Market Week. We’ll share ideas, resources and inspiration for making the most of this special week at your market. Register at ilfma.org/marketmondays.
ILFMA proudly celebrates every vendor, volunteer, market manager and shopper that makes our markets flourish. Whether you’re a longtime regular or a first-time visitor, we invite you to find your local market and experience the difference fresh and local makes.
Visit a market near you—and taste what Illinois has to offer.
Libby Ervin is the executive director of the Illinois Farmers Market Association. To find a local market or learn more, visit ilfma.org.
