Farmers Day

On October 12, Farmers Day is celebrated across America to recognize and honor the hard work of farmers and all they do for the country. Autumn marks the height of the harvest season, making it the perfect time to give thanks to the men and women who run the farms. Thanks to their dedication, fruits, vegetables, and meat make it to American stores—and eventually to the tables and refrigerators of households everywhere.

History

The first evidence of the celebration of Farmers Day dates back to the 1800s, though the exact origin of the holiday is unknown. Interestingly, different regions of the United States may celebrate this day at different times of the year. Farmers have played a crucial role in the development and growth of the country since its founding, shaping the economy and supporting communities. Their work goes beyond producing food; farmers also contribute to leather goods, textiles, beverages, and even pharmaceuticals, and they help sustain forestry and fisheries. Their impact creates jobs for freight carriers, restaurants, shops, and more.

Interesting Facts

• In 1969, Peru created its own Farmers Day, though since 1920 it had been celebrated as the Day of the Indigenous Peoples.
• Every five years, the US Department of Agriculture conducts a census of American farmers, which reveals that the average age of a farmer is 58 and that more than 90% of farms are family-owned businesses.
• In 2019, the agriculture and food sector provided over 22.2 million jobs in the United States.

How to Take Part

The best way to celebrate Farmers Day is to thank the farmers who work tirelessly to provide high-quality products for the United States. On October 12, you can learn more about agriculture, discover how your favorite products are made, and see how long it takes for food to travel from farm to consumer. Attend a farmer’s festival to show support for the agricultural community, or visit a local farmers’ market to buy fresh produce and support local growers. You can also look into cooperative farming or invest in community-supported agriculture.

When is Farmers Day in 2025?

Farmers Day is observed on October 12 each year.

Observations