SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — An annual farmers’ market presented by HSHS St. John’s in Springfield is kicking off next week.

The 26th season of the Old Capitol Farmers Market is kicking off with a soft opening on May 14 and a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for May 17 at 9 a.m. The market operates from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. every Wednesday and Saturday, running until Oct. 25.

As reported by Downtown Springfield, Inc., the ribbon-cutting event will include speeches from Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, State Senator Doris Turner, Mayor Misty Buscher, and Ward 5 Alderwoman Lakeisha Purchase. There will also be statements from a representative of HSHS St. John’s and Bella Szabo, who is the Director of the Springfield Area Arts Council. After the speeches, free cake will be served by Incredibly Delicious.

The Old Capitol Farmers Market promotes local farmers, businesses, and artisans. It’s a producer-only market, meaning all products are homegrown, handmade, and crafted by locally owned businesses within Illinois. The Springfield Area Arts Council approves all participating artisans at the market.

The farmers market offers Link Match, which is a program that doubles the value of SNAP/Link (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) purchases at the market. The market is also partnering with Grace Lutheran Food Pantry to connect volunteers with market vendors who are interested in donating food products.

Additionally, the Imagination Station, a kids’ activity area, will feature a unique theme each week and host various activities, community members and learning opportunities for the market’s younger guests. Attendees of all ages can enjoy WERQ Dance Fitness on the first Saturday of each month, and chef demonstrations on the third Saturday of each month. A number of community groups will also be featured in the market’s community tent.