National Farm-City Week – November 26, 2026

History of National Farm-City Week

The history of the U.S. agriculture sector covers the period from the first English settlers to the present day. In colonial America, agriculture was the main source of livelihood for 90% of the population, and most cities were points of delivery for agricultural products. Most farms were focused on subsistence production for family use. Rapid population growth and the expansion of borders opened up a lot of new farms, and land clearing was a primary concern for farmers.

American farms promote the health of their nation, protect their environmental resources, and are at the forefront of their country’s path to energy independence. It is important for American society to continue to support the relationship between American farms and families and to ensure that farming remains an economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable way of life for future generations. National Farm-City Week recognizes the innumerable contributions made by farmers in the U.S. to the health and well-being of their country.

The partnership between the rural industry and urban markets is lasting and beneficial. Americans from all over the country are finding ways to engage in agriculture and related industries and highlighting the importance of these industries. The growing interest in local and regional food highlights the contribution of farmers to urban, suburban, and rural areas. American children learn about the origins of food and healthy eating options by visiting farms, learning from hardworking farmers and ranchers, and trying their hand at farming through a network of school gardens and farm-to-school programs. Thanks to their continuous initiative and innovation, rural communities create new domestic and international markets for high-quality food, fuel, and fiber.