Another season has wrapped up, and it’s time for reflecting, and more importantly planning what’s to come in 2017.

The sophomore season of a new farmers’ market is said to be one of the toughest. This year was definitely a learning experience, from weather to sampling to new vendors to cooking demos, we adapted and innovated throughout the season. We came out the other side having tripled the amount of SNAP benefits matched as in 2015, probably this year’s proudest accomplishment. The SNAP program was used by 80 shoppers this season, and brought 45 new families to the market. We saw a vast increase in variety of products, with the introduction of organic grains, artisan popsicles, maple syrup, and apple cider from a new orchard. We also introduced the new Sampling Tent, which not only gave out over 3,000 tastes of our vendors’ products across the season, but also allowed for cooking demonstrations with some of Downtown Champaign’s best-loved chefs.

Below you’ll find a glimpse of the 2016 season. We’re excited to incorporate even more chef demos, educational activities, and great local food in 2017.

The new season kicks of May 16, 2017 and will run through the end of October. Check back in the spring for more Champaign Farmers’ Market news, and we’ll see you in the spring!