Illinois Local Holiday Market Returns for Fifth Year on Small Business Saturday – November 29, 2025
Santa arrives at the Illinois Local Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday.
The Fifth Annual Illinois Local Holiday Market is back and bigger than ever, just in time for Small Business Saturday on November 29, 2025.
The festive, family-friendly marketplace brings together dozens of Illinois-based artisans, makers, and small businesses for a one-day shopping event celebrating the best of local talent in the Exposition Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds from 9 am to 4 pm.
SYPG Nutcracker Performance
The Illinois Local Holiday Market has become a must-visit seasonal tradition for thousands of shoppers seeking to support small businesses, discover unique gifts, and experience a vibrant community atmosphere.
Kristen Deweese of Honeydew Candle Co. shared her excitement about returning as a vendor this year. "We have had a fantastic experience being a vendor for the Illinois Local Holiday Market. 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."
The event is thoughtfully curated and designed to highlight Illinois-based entrepreneurs, featuring a diverse range of products, including handmade goods, gourmet treats, home décor, apparel, jewelry, and more. It's not only a celebration of local business—it's a powerful economic driver during the holiday season.
One of the highlights of this year's market will be the Children's Play Area, hosted by Little Lincoln's Toy Shop.
"Little Lincoln's Toy Shop is excited to host the Children's Play Area at the 2025 Illinois Local Holiday Market," said owner Ryan Leake. "We'll have a giant BRIO wooden train world to explore, hands-on toy demos, Rail Cubes to play with, plus crafts and activities to keep kids of all ages busy and having fun."
Ryan emphasized how meaningful the market has become for his business. "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."
The Illinois Local Holiday Market is supported by the Illinois Small Business Development Center for Central Illinois and is designated an American Express Neighborhood Champion. In addition to over 70 vendors, Santa will be available for photos from 10 am to 2 pm. Bluey and Bingo will be making the rounds, the Springfield Youth Performance Group will provide excerpts from The Nutcracker, and Dayna's Dance Revolution will perform its regular holiday program.
The Illinois Local Holiday Market also boasts hot food and drinks. “We have a blast being a vendor at the IL Local holiday market! It is so fun to check out the other local vendors and getting to interact with all the guests who stop by. There is something for everyone to enjoy,” said Bloom Hospitality & Catering owner, Gabi Thompson.
Entry to the Holiday Market is $5 for 13 and over.
Event Details:
What: Illinois Local Holiday Market
When: Saturday, November 29, 2025 (Small Business Saturday)
Where: Exposition Building at the Illinois State Fairgrounds
Time: 9 am to 4 pm
Admission: 13 and over $5
For more information or to register as a vendor, visit illinoislocal.org or follow on Facebook or Instagram.
SYPG Nutcracker Performance
Ryan owner of Little Lincoln’s Toy Shop