SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (KFVS) – Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed July 1, 2026, as Community Garden Day in the Prairie State.
State officials marked the occasion with events at community gardens across the state, including one celebration Wednesday at the Illinois Department of Agriculture’s(IDOA) community garden on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.
The garden is located in the infield of the dirt race track at the south end of the fairgrounds.
IDOA officials say is the only community garden operated on the grounds of a state agriculture department in the nation.
“Gardening connects us to agriculture in a very personal way,” Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II said in a statement. He said community gardens encourage healthy lifestyles and bring people together.
Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton says, “Coming together as a community to garden doesn’t just bring people closer together—it reconnects us to the food on our table. I’ve always said ag connects us all, and it’s heartening to see that connection in action.”
The agriculture department encouraged residents to support and participate in community gardens throughout the state.
Residents interested in participating in a community garden are encouraged to contact either the Illinois Department of Agriculture Community Garden Program or the Sangamon County Department of Public Health Community Garden Program to learn more about plot availability and how to get involved.
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