Rockford City Market receives agri-tourism award

Online Staff Report

Rockford City Market was recognized as a leader in agricultural tourism by the Illinois State Comptroller’s office. The award was presented at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield, Ill., Tuesday, Aug. 14, as part of the Office of the Comptroller’s “Agri-tourism Day.” The market was one of 16 agri-tourism leaders honored at the awards ceremony.

Rock River Development Partnership Chairman Peter Provenzano said: “We’re pleased the Comptroller’s Office has chosen to honor Rockford City Market with its agri-tourism award. The market works to promote local growers and entrepreneurs who sell natural products. Most of the vendors come from a 150-mile radius, ensuring produce and other goods are locally produced. It’s wonderful to see our efforts receive recognition at the state level.”

Agri-tourism promotes agriculture and tourism through a range of activities, including picking farm products, riding horses, learning about wine and cheese-making, and shopping for local and regional produce or hand-crafted gifts.

Rockford City Market was nominated for the award by the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Rockford City Market takes place every Friday from June 1 through Oct. 12 along Water Street in downtown Rockford. It runs from 3 to 8 p.m. before Labor Day and 3 to 7 p.m. after Labor Day. It is a collaborative effort of several agencies, including Rock River Development Partnership, River District Association, the City of Rockford and Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Visit www.rockfordcitymarket.com for more information.

Posted Aug. 16, 2012