2026 Illinois Local Holiday Market Named a Route 66 Centennial Project; Awards Finalists Announced
The sixth annual Illinois Local Holiday Market returns on Small Business Saturday, November 28, 2026, and this year it is officially part of the Route 66 Centennial. More than 70 Illinois small businesses and organizations will fill the Orr Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Planning your day? Hours, parking, vendor info and everything else you need is on the Illinois Local Holiday Market page →
The market has been named a Route 66 Centennial Certified Project, which makes it part of the national celebration of the Mother Road's 100th anniversary. The fairgrounds sit on the historic Route 66 corridor, and this year's market will feature businesses, organizations and causes from communities along the route. Illinois Local is also an American Express Neighborhood Champion, and the market is supported by the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for Central Illinois.
“Small Business Saturday provides another opportunity to champion small businesses,” said Chris Long, co-founder of Illinois Local. “This year is even more exciting because we’re also celebrating 100 years of Route 66. Being recognized as a Route 66 Centennial Certified Project means we can shine an even brighter spotlight on the incredible businesses, organizations and causes that are part of the historic Mother Road.”
Thanksgiving visitors become local customers
The Holiday Market draws thousands of shoppers from across Central Illinois and beyond. Many are in town visiting family for Thanksgiving. After the market, those visitors shop, eat and stay at local businesses in Springfield, downtown and nearby towns, so the event's impact reaches well past the fairgrounds.
For vendors, it is often the best sales day of the year. “We have had a fantastic experience being a vendor for the Illinois Local Holiday Market,” said Kristen Deweese of Honeydew Candle Co. “It is our biggest and most successful event of the year. It is well-marketed and draws in hundreds of people to shop. Illinois Local has helped us draw in the customers we need to have an excellent sales day.”
Ryan Leake of Little Lincoln’s Toy Shop also highlighted the value of participating in the market and connecting with shoppers. “We skipped the very first Illinois Local Holiday Market and quickly realized we should have been there. Since then, it’s become one of our favorite events of the season. Even on Small Business Saturday, one of the busiest days in our shop, the market keeps pace with our in-store sales and brings new faces through our doors. We can’t wait to be part of it again this year,” said Ryan.
The Illinois Local Awards move to the Holiday Market
For the first time, the Illinois Local Awards will be presented at the Holiday Market, at 3 p.m. on November 28 in the Orr Building. Four awards recognize members for business achievement, community contribution, social media and support of the Illinois Local community. The awards are sponsored by Bailey Family Insurance, and each award is a handmade piece by Ceramics Made by Rosie.
2026 Illinois Local Awards finalists
Business of the Year
Community Hero
Best Use of Social Media
Ambassador of the Year
Winners will be announced on stage at 3 p.m. Past winners are listed on the Awards page.
Santa, Bluey and a full day for families
Santa: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Bluey and Bingo: all day, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Free holiday crafts and a Children's Play Area hosted by Little Lincoln's Toy Shop
Live performances from Springfield Youth Performance Group, Dayna's Dance Revolution, Springfield Theatre Centre and Music Therapy Connections
Plan your visit: the day at a glance
9 a.m.: Doors open. Shop 70+ Illinois small businesses, and say hi to Bluey and Bingo, who are there all day.
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Photos with Santa.
All day: Free holiday crafts, the Children’s Play Area hosted by Little Lincoln’s Toy Shop, and live performances.
3 p.m.: The 2026 Illinois Local Awards are presented live.
4 p.m.: The market closes.
Event details
What: Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday (sixth annual)
When: Saturday, November 28, 2026, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 66 4-H Rd., Springfield, IL 62702
Admission: $5 for ages 13 and up; children 12 and under are FREE
Illinois Local Awards: 3 p.m.
More information: illinoislocal.org/holiday-market
Holiday Market FAQs
Where do I park?
Enter the Illinois State Fairgrounds through Gate 11 or Gate 7 and follow the signs. Parking is in the lots around the Orr Building.
Is the market indoors?
Yes. The Orr Building is heated, so the market goes on rain, shine or snow.
How much does it cost for kids?
Kids 12 and under get in free. Admission is $5 for ages 13 and up, paid at the door. No advance tickets are needed.
Can my business still be a vendor?
Vendor applications close Friday, November 20, 2026. Booths are 10×10 and cost $75 for Illinois Local members or $200 for non-members. Apply on the Holiday Market page →
Is the awards ceremony open to the public?
Yes. Everyone at the market is welcome to watch the Illinois Local Awards at 3 p.m.
Illinois Local is a statewide membership for independent businesses and causes. Want your business in front of Holiday Market shoppers next year? Become a member.
See the full Holiday Market schedule, vendor info and directions →