Illinois e-News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 22, 2025   

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DU QUOIN, IL – The Du Quoin State Fair celebrates Illinois agriculture – the state’s number one industry – and there’s no better way to experience it than with a visit to the 2025 Illinois Product Expo. 

“Consumers are increasingly interested in where their food comes from, and the Illinois Product Expo is a great way to connect buyers with local farmers and producers,” said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. “With demand for locally grown products on the rise, we’re excited to showcase the best of Illinois agriculture at the Du Quoin State Fair.”

The Illinois Product Expo, located in the Expo Hall, will be open the second weekend of the Du Quoin State Fair. Shop for local products Friday, Aug. 29 from 5 to 9 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 30 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Aug. 31 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Nearly two dozen vendors will be offering free food samples and selling seasonings, jellies and jams, honey, freeze dried candy, salsa, coffee, herbal tea, soaps, lip balm, birdhouses, wood and gourd crafts, essential oil products, candles and much more. In addition, several Illinois wineries will offer wine tasting.

“When you sample and buy local food, you're directly supporting southern Illinois producers,” said Jackie Sambursky, Bureau Chief of Marketing, Illinois Department of Agriculture. “The Illinois Product Expo gives fairgoers the opportunity to taste what makes Illinois products so special.”

The Du Quoin State Fair runs from August 22 - September 1. Admission to the fair is free, and parking is free on August 22. For remaining fair dates, parking is $15 for Gate 1, and $10 for all other gates. Please visit dsf.illinois.gov for additional information including seasonal parking and handicap parking details.