Harvest Hunt: The 4 Best Illinois Spots for Affordable Thanksgiving Groceries Revealed in Study.

• Survey of 3,004 respondents.
• Old Dutch Grocery Store (Danville) voted #1; followed by Choices Natural Market (Loves Park), La Chiquita Food Market (Cicero) + Green Top Grocery (Bloomington).
• Interactive map included.

As Thanksgiving approaches, families across Illinois are preparing one of their most meaningful – and most expensive – meals of the year. While big-box stores still dominate the holiday shopping scene, many households are turning to local grocers, farmers markets, and regional discount chains to keep costs under control without sacrificing flavor.

Advance America, a leading online loan provider, commissioned a survey of 3,004 respondents to identify the best places in the Prairie State to buy affordable Thanksgiving ingredients – from sweet potatoes and pie crusts to stuffing mix and turkey alternatives. By comparing price value, freshness, and community reputation, the study reveals how Illinoisians are stretching their food budgets while maintaining traditions. The 4 most popular were as follows:

#1. Old Dutch Grocery Store, Danville
Tops Marketplace is a go-to local stop for families prepping Thanksgiving without stretching their budget. From fresh turkeys and seasonal produce to bakery pies and classic pantry staples, the store makes it easy to assemble every part of the holiday meal in one place. Friendly service and community-minded values add to the festive spirit, helping shoppers keep holiday traditions alive while keeping costs in check.

#2. Choices Natural Market, Loves Park
River Valley Provisions brings Thanksgiving home with a thoughtful mix of local and specialty products at wallet-friendly prices. From fresh turkeys and seafood for festive appetizers to gluten-free and vegetarian staples that ensure every guest at the table is catered for, this independent market makes holiday menu planning easy. With quality produce, bakery essentials, and locally made sides and sweets, shoppers can craft a delicious Connecticut-style Thanksgiving without overspending.

#3. La Chiquita Food Market, Cicero
The Market CT is a full-service market offering a variety of traditional and unique products. They provide organic and conventional produce, hot or cold menu items, and catering services. The Market CT is known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, making it a reliable choice for families looking to prepare a Thanksgiving feast on a budget. 

#4. Green Top Grocery, Bloomington
In Bloomington, Green Top Grocery is proof that community ownership can still mean fair prices. Run as a cooperative, it lets members and everyday shoppers alike pick up seasonal produce and pantry basics without the supermarket surcharge. As Thanksgiving nears, the store highlights local pumpkins, squash, and baking staples that come straight from nearby farms — keeping costs sensible while supporting regional growers. Many families here plan their shopping list around Green Top’s weekly specials, knowing they can assemble a full feast without straying from their budget. It’s the kind of place where value and values still go hand in hand.

Interactive map showing the top Thanksgiving food stores in each state (click on ’embed’ to host on your site)

“Thanksgiving can be both joyful and stressful for families trying to make ends meet,” says Laura McCutcheon, VP of Marketing at Advance America. “What we found is that communities across the country are finding creative ways to celebrate without overspending — whether that means shopping local, buying in bulk, or turning to independent grocers who know how to deliver real value. It’s proof that the spirit of Thanksgiving isn’t about spending more — it’s about making the most of what you have.”