IDOA tent highlights homegrown food

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois Department of Agriculture tent not only offers thirst-quenching treats, but also educates state fair visitors on the diversity of locally-grown products the Prairie State offers.

Among the booths exhibiting that diversity is hosted by the Illinois Specialty Growers Association where visitors can learn about the state’s crops, livestock and local farming traditions from hands-on exhibits to family-friendly activites.

“We host what we call a farm stand, but what we have is all Illinois specialty products and other partnerships,” said Raghela Scavuzzo, ISGA executive director. “We offer our famous apple cider slushies, as well as our apple cider floats mixed with Prairie Farms ice cream.

“We have Illinois-grown peaches, watermelon and sweet corn. So, we like to say we’re the freshest and the most affordable fairground food that’ll be quite enjoyable.

“Most people don’t know Illinois is the nation’s No. 1 producers of pumpkins, No. 1 producers of horseradish and top 10 producer of things like lima beans, sweet peas and green beans. So, we like to make sure visitors understand that we grow some amazing fruits and vegetables right here in Illinois.”

IDOA’s tent also featured the Illinois Product Store where visitors can learn more about the families behind the state’s products and purchase items ranging from beef jerky to barbecue sauces.

In addition, the exhibit included an AgVenture Kids Area with free kids “ag-tivities,” arts and crafts, pedal tractors, and coloring books, as well as free daily programs on the Illinois Farm Bureau Stage.