Chicago Product Expo Debuts Oct. 16 With 70+ Illinois Vendors

Chicago, IL – More than 70 Illinois vendors are headed to Chicago this month for the city's first Illinois Product Expo, giving shoppers two days to sample products, meet producers and discover goods made across the state.

According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the inaugural Chicago Illinois Product Expo will take place Friday, Oct. 16, and Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Isadore & Sadie Dorin Forum on the University of Illinois Chicago's East Campus, 725 W. Roosevelt Road.

Organizers expect more than 5,000 people to attend the two-day event, which expands on Illinois Product Expos previously held in Springfield and Du Quoin.

The Chicago expo will feature more than 70 Illinois vendors, product samples and opportunities for visitors to meet farmers, entrepreneurs, makers and other producers. Attendees can also receive a free Illinois Product bag while supplies last.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture says the event is designed to introduce Chicago-area consumers to products made and grown throughout Illinois while giving participating businesses exposure to a larger market.

Gov. JB Pritzker said in the department's announcement that bringing the expo to Chicago will give residents an opportunity to sample and shop products from Illinois farmers, entrepreneurs and small businesses. IDOA Director Jerry Costello II said the expansion will also connect more consumers with businesses involved in the state's agricultural economy.

Friday's expo hours are noon to 7 p.m. Saturday's event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Advance admission costs $10 plus fees, while tickets purchased at the door will cost $15 plus fees. Organizers encourage visitors to purchase tickets ahead of time for quicker entry.

Tickets, vendor listings and additional event information are available at illinoisproductexpo.com.