For decades, Illinois has pursued an agricultural model built on maximizing commodity crop production. At a major summit in 2013, the Illinois Farm Bureau, supported by the University of Illinois, unveiled the ‘Vision for Illinois Agriculture’—a 10-year strategic plan focused on making Illinois a global leader in commodity crop production. Some of us still recall the excitement generated in the room around the idea of beating out Ukraine for corn sales to developing nations.

From the start, the 61st Street Farmers Market was founded by a passionate group of local volunteers and continues to make an impact in the community with their support. Today, we couldn’t be more grateful to Chicago Cares for bringing an amazing team of volunteers every week to help at the Market and the Hoop.

Soaring temperatures, punishing humidity, air quality alerts, beach days, and a bounty of fresh, local produce: it must be July in Chicago! Farmers all across the region are harvesting their mid-summer produce, preparing their fall crops, and coping with the weather as best as they can (aren’t we all?!). 

As we approach the end of June, summer is in full swing, and that means berries! At this week’s market, you will find fresh strawberries, red and black raspberries, and blueberries, as well as vendors using them in everything from baked goods to ice cream to vinaigrettes.

Yesterday, we witnessed the historic grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center. As today marks its official opening day, we are excited to see how this new global center of hope, progress, and community will positively impact our neighborhood and city.

Farmers market season is here… The locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables… the fun, friendly outdoor space… the delicious food from local vendors…

While we are excited about all that, we at Link Up Illinois are particularly thrilled that this year, we are partnering with over 120 farmers markets across Illinois to provide SNAP recipients with access to fresh fruits and vegetables through Link Match.

Ever wonder how a single bite can take you on a trip around the world? Meet Chef Royce Lowery and Danielle Mitchell, founders of Kaya Grill & Gyoza, one of our market’s new and exciting vendors!

We’re excited to welcome back E-tegami Chicago and its founder, Danielle Stolz, for another season of creative fun at the 61st Street Farmers Market!

Chicago Grows Food has partnered with the 61st Street Farmers Market since 2023 to pass out hundreds of free grow kits, seeds, seedlings, and educational materials.