The Old Capitol Farmers Market will run every Saturday and Wednesday on Fourth St. and Adams in downtown Springfield from 8 a.m until 12:30 p.m. until the end of the month. The city shuts down several city blocks to traffic while the market is operating allowing shoppers to walk down the middle of the street to look at the variety of vendors and products. Students of the University of Illinois at Springfield have an excellent opportunity to buy and eat local produce, meat, baked items and drinks in a vibrant, charming outdoor atmosphere. Unlike big-box grocery stores, shoppers can talk directly to the growers of the food they are purchasing, ask questions about different uses of different produce and learn from experts on the best uses of their products. Further, shoppers can buy ethically, knowing that they are helping local residents and their businesses.

The city of Springfield sits in the middle of the best agricultural land on the planet. Agriculture is not just limited to large, corporate farmers, and many local growers and producers operate right here in the middle of the state. In 1999, Downtown Springfield Inc., a local business organization, started the Old Capitol Farmers Market to connect these local growers and residents of the city, creating a market for customers to buy local produce. This 22-year tradition now runs stronger than ever, and dozens of vendors show up every Saturday and Wednesday to offer the best local food in the state.

Whether you are in the mood for a warm, soft brownie, grocery items for apartment cooking, flowers for decoration – or just want a coffee on a brisk autumn morning, there is something at the Old Capitol Farmers Market for everyone. Don’t miss out on the best tastes Illinois has to offer!

For more info about the Farmer’s Market: https://www.downtownspringfield.org/old-capitol-farmers-market/