Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday - a family tradition

The much-anticipated fourth annual Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday has almost arrived.

The 2024 Illinois Local Holiday Market is on Saturday, November 30, from 9 am to 4 pm in the Exposition Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.

Last year, the event attracted over 75 vendors and more than 2,500 shoppers.

“We cannot wait to see everyone at the Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday,” said organizer Gemma Long. “We will welcome the return of Santa and Bluey, Springfield Youth Performance Group, and Dayna’s Dance Revolution. In addition, this year, we will have Bingo, a Children’s Corner, music from the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra, carolers, and the Land of Lincoln Chorus.”

The Children’s Corner will host Westminster Cooperative Preschool, Kidzeum of Health & Science, Compass for Kids, Santa, Bluey and Bingo, and MORE.

Organizer Chris Long said the market was fast becoming a holiday tradition for many families in central Illinois and those visiting for Thanksgiving. "Everyone is looking for something fun to do with the whole family. The market is full of shopping and entertainment for all ages and interests. We cannot wait to see everyone again."

Springfield Youth Performance Group will perform excerpts of The Nutcracker before its show weekend on December 7 and 8 at SHG Auditorium. Founder and executive director Taryn Grant said, “SYPG dancers are excited to return to the Illinois Local Holiday Market, where we enjoy celebrating holidays and supporting small businesses. We hope you can join us.”

For a third year, those aged 13 to 18 with a business in Illinois can participate as a vendor for FREE. If you are interested in being a teen vendor, email hello@illinoislocal.org.

Ryan Leake of Little Lincoln’s Toy Shop said he was excited to return to the Illinois Local Holiday Market.

“Last year marked our first time participating in the Illinois Local Holiday Market, and we quickly realized we should have joined sooner. It was a wonderful way to connect with loyal customers and introduce our brand to countless new faces. We are thrilled to be part of this year's event and look forward to another successful season.”

Katelyn Klos, owner of The Strawberry Finch and Wildflowers & Barley, said the Illinois Local Holiday Market is a great event for vendors and shoppers.

“Being a vendor at the Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday is the highlight of our year,” she said. “It is always a fantastic market for both vendors and shoppers, with a variety of goods and entertainment,”

The market will boast hot food, cocktails, wine, coffee, pastries, candy, local products, services, gifts, homeware, and a golf simulator.

Gabi Thompson of Bloom Hospitality & Catering said the Illinois Local Holiday Market is great for the whole family.

“We have been a vendor at the Holiday Market for the past couple of years and love it,” she said. “We enjoy seeing the other local businesses and all the great guests who come through to support us. It has been a great way to gain exposure and connect with the community.”

This year, shoppers will vote for the ‘Best Dressed Booth.' The winner will be announced on social media the following week.

Rosie Gale of Ceramics Made by Rosie is returning to the market this year.

“I am so excited for the Illinois Local Holiday Market this year. It is such a fun and magical event with so many wonderful vendors for you to shop small, buy handmade, and support local," said Rosie. "I am honored to be a part of it. From decorations to dinnerware, little mugs to lamps, I am busy making in my studio to bring you special, forever pieces to gift to your loved ones."

Illinois Local members pay just $50 to be a vendor. Non-members pay $175. Illinois Local members with one to three employees pay $225 for an annual membership, which includes the annual conference and awards, a free photoshoot, monthly networking, a monthly newsletter, a search engine-optimized member directory, and a members-only Facebook group.

Entry to the market is FREE to 12 and under. Entry is $5 for 13 and over. Parking is free. SMTD bus routes 1 and 2.

The Illinois SBDC for Central Illinois supports the Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday.

For more information about Illinois Local, visit illinoislocal.org