National Farmers Market Week Events in Springfield: Aug. 7 - 13
The United States Department of Agriculture has declared August 7-13, 2016 as National Farmers Market Week. In celebration, Illinois Stewardship Alliance and community partners are hosting farmers market related events throughout Springfield during the week. These events include everything from cooking classes and farm-to-table meals to special activities at the Old Capitol Farmers Market.
Farmers markets are more than just an outlet for fresh produce and friendly farmers. According to United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) statistics, these grassroots venues have increased in number by over 60% since 2009 to more than 8,500 today. These markets preserve farmland, stimulate local economies, increase access to fresh nutritious food, improve community health, and promote sustainability. Read More
The full schedule of events follows:
Monday, August 8
Farmers Market Cooking Class Sangamon County Department of Public Health 2833 South Grand Avenue East. 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Presented by HSHS St. John's Hospital Free-registration required Limit of 20 people per class & you must call 217-814-4308 to register. Chefs from HSHS St. John's Hospital will show people how to prepare the produce they are buying from the markets.
GenHKids Mobile Market
St. Patrick's Catholic School
1800 S. Grand Ave. East
4 - 6 p.m.
GenhKids and HSHS St. Johns Children's Hospital are pleased to introduce their brand new Mobile Farmers Market, designed to bring fresh, in-season produce to neighborhoods and communities throughout central Illinois. Stop by for cooking demos and recipes, and to purchase delicious, fresh produce. WIC, SNAP, cash, and credit accepted.
Tuesday, August 9
Robert's Seafood Celebrates National Farmers Market Week
1615 W. Jefferson
7 - 9 a.m.
Come see what local foods you can find at Robert's seafood and enjoy fresh cooked breakfast samples featuring locally raised eggs and bacon.
Wednesday, August 10
Old Capitol Farmers Market
4th and Adams Street
3 - 6:30 p.m.
Sangamo Club Chef Demo and Seasonal Cocktail available for purchase
Illinois Stewardship Alliance Market Information Booth: Food and Farm Jenga and Heirloom Tomato Tasting
Live Music: Dandelion Pickers
Grow Springfield Bicycle Smoothies
Local Flavors: National Farmers Market Week Edition
Cooper's StrEATside Bistro and Rolling Meadows Brewery
3 - 6:30 p.m.
Parked at the Old Capitol Farmers Market
Cooper's StrEATside Bistro is cooking up farm-fresh fare featuring locally-grown ingredients, many from vendors at the market. Optional beer pairings with Rolling Meadows Brewery will also be available. For the full menu visit www.buyfreshbuylocalcentralillinois.org. Come enjoy a taste of central Illinois!
Buy Fresh Buy Local Day at Food Fantasies
1512 Wabash Ave
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Presented by Illinois Stewardship Alliance and Food Fantasies
Meet local farmer Gus Jones of Small Axe Market Gardens, sample seasonal produce, pick up recipe cards and ideas, and enjoy 10% off of all local products throughout the store.
Slow Food Springfield Meet-up at Driftwood Cocktails and Eatery
11 W Old State Capitol Plaza
6-8 p.m.
Learn more about Slow Food Springfield and mix and mingle with other members while enjoying a seasonal cocktail to benefit Slow Food Springfield.
Saturday, August 13
Old Capitol Farmers Market
4th and Adams Street
8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Illinois Stewardship Alliance Market Information Booth: Food and Farm Jenga, Farmers Market Scavenger Hunt for Kids, and Farm Fresh Samples: Peaches and Granola with Yogurt
Bicycle Smoothies with Grow Springfield and YMCA
Bike Valet by Girl Scout Troops 6318 and 6824
Slow Food Springfield Farmers Market Photo Contest
Hula Hoops
Farmers Market Fresh Cooking Classes
Copper Pot Cooking Studio
916 W Laurel Street
Campfire Classic
2-3 p.m.
Enjoy a campfire class of "hobo meal" with local, seasonal veggies wrapped in tin foil.
Kids age 3-5
Market Tacos
3:30 - 5 p.m.
Who doesn't love tacos!? Tacos using fresh, seasonal veggies are even better!
Kids age 6-12