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- United States
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Farmers Day is observed every October 12, celebrating the tireless work of agricultural professionals who cultivate our food supply. Take time today to appreciate the dedication and innovation of farmers, support local produce, and learn about the vital role agriculture plays in our society.
Want to sponsor Farmers Day? Learn how
History of Farmers Day
Agriculture is one of the world’s oldest and vital professions. Farmers have remained one of the highest contributors to economic growth while consistently feeding the people who rely on their goods. Originally referred to as Old Farmer’s Day, National Farmers Day was cultivated to celebrate the hard work farmers put into growing their crops. The date of October 12 came about as it lands at the end of the traditional harvesting period, allowing farmers to participate in festivities, which can sometimes last the entirety of the month. Additionally, every three years, the Harvest Moon will fall in early October, preceding and leading up to National Farmer’s Day on the 17th.
In fact, in Loranger, Louisiana, there’s an Old Farmer’s Day Festival which celebrates and showcases the traditions and methodologies of farming before it became the modernized and scientific venture it is today. Usually, in states in the northern US, the first frost would occur in the beginning of October, if not the middle, requiring many farmers to harvest their crops beforehand to prepare for the winter. Now, because of scientific developments in farming techniques, the traditional growing period can be prolonged to increase yield and profit, part of the reasoning why National Farmer’s Day tend to extend its celebrations in rural areas to National Farmer’s Month.
Farmers Day timeline
People began to leave their nomadic hunter gatherer lifestyle and settled down as farmers.
The British Agricultural Revolution began due to an unprecedented increase in agricultural production.
The NFU was founded in Texas by ten family farmers. The union advocated for voting rights for women, fair market access for farmers, and increased co-operative rights.
Farmer's Markets began in Los Angeles as a way for farmers and merchants can sell their wares from permanent stalls.
Traditions of National Farmers Day
Stats about National Farmers Day
2 million – the number of farms in the U.S.
$1 trillion – The contribution of agriculture to the US economy.
1.3% – The percentage of the U.S. labor force made up by ranchers.
90% – The percentage of U.S. crop losses caused by extreme weather
50,000 – The number of jobs available in agriculture in the U.S each year.
40% – The percentage of crop cash that is generated by corn and soybeans.
166 – The number of people the average U.S farm feeds each year.
25% – The percentage of food that Americans throw away every month.
Farmers Day FAQs
When is Farmers Day?
Farmers Day 2026 falls on Monday, October 12, a dedicated day to recognize the essential work of agricultural professionals.
How many farmers are there in the U.S.?
According to the USDA’s 2022 Census of Agriculture, there are approximately 3.4 million producers (farmers and ranchers) across 1.9 million farms in the United States. This vital workforce ensures food security for the nation.
What is the economic impact of farming in the U.S.?
Agriculture and related industries contribute significantly to the U.S. economy, accounting for over $1.4 trillion of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2022. This includes direct farm output, food processing, and related sectors.
Is Farmers Day a federal holiday?
No, Farmers Day is not a federal holiday in the United States. It is a day of national observance and recognition, celebrated annually on October 12.
Farmers Day Activities
Go to a farmers market
Support your local farmers by shopping at the local Farmer's Market. Keep in mind that by shopping with small businesses, you are helping an entrepreneur provide for their family or expand their business. America has a history of family farming and your support helps keep their dreams alive.
Start your own mini-farm
According to one of the top Kansas City PR Firms, only 2% of Americans grow their own food. What better way to celebrate National Farmers Day than to become your own farmer? Think how awesome would it be if your favorite fruits or veggies were growing in your backyard. Don't have a yard? No Problem. Many neighborhoods have community gardens where you can test out your green thumb.
Earn your stripes with a farmer's tan
We're not saying to throw out your sun block, but it might be fun to show solidarity with your local farmers by sporting your own t-shirt tan! Enjoy the sunny day outdoors and learn the true meaning of a Farmer's Tan.
Why We Love Farmers Day
Farmers perform one of the world's oldest jobs
Farming developed independently all over the globe, whether is was farming rice, wheat, bananas, shrimp, or almonds, farmers are working tirelessly all over the globe to feed the world.
They grow our food
It is hard to imagine a world without having access to fruits and vegetables. Fortunately, there is a group of professionals that dedicate themselves to growing the perfect produce. Farmer's play a vital role in our society by providing us with the luxury of purchasing fruit and vegetables at any given time.
Farmers are dedicated, hard workers
Deciding to be a farmer is a decision that not many take lightly. Creating a farm requires investment, tons of hard work, equipment, time and a passion for growing food.
Farmers Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | October 12 | Monday |
| 2027 | October 12 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | October 12 | Thursday |
| 2029 | October 12 | Friday |
| 2030 | October 12 | Saturday |
