As with many other elements of Woodstock’s character, a combination of small, locally-owned businesses, shops and restaurants combine with large corporate establishments to meet any need. Just as vital to Woodstock, however, is its thriving agri-business community.

The historic downtown area, still reminiscent in design to the Victorian theme established when the city was first built, is the center of shopping, dining and entertainment in the community. The Woodstock Opera House, a movie theater, a wealth of shops and stores, and many restaurants work in harmony to keep the area alive with activity. The business district stretches away from downtown all the way to Route 47. Scores of professional buildings, medical offices, stores for any need and a variety of other businesses can be found in the area.

The city of Woodstock has long supported the preservation and protection of agricultural lands – a fact not surprising, considering the volume of products produced in the city and the close proximity of Chicago, Milwaukee, Rockford, Madison and other major urban areas. Nearly two-thirds of Woodstock’s lands are devoted to agriculture and McHenry County’s Farm Bureau and the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Service are based in the city.

Corn, hay and soybean are the most common crops produced on Woodstock’s farms, while raising livestock is also a big part of the agri-business done in the city.

The city’s commercial center and agricultural roots come together at the annual McHenry County Fair. Prizes are awarded for crops and livestock as the farm community displays its finest products to thousands of citizens and tourists.