National Farmers Day

Farmers’ Day (sometimes called National Farmers Day in the U.S.) is a day set aside to honor and celebrate farmers—the people who grow our food, care for the land, raise animals, and sustain rural communities. In the United States, National Farmers Day is observed on October 12 every year.

History of National Farmers Day

In the U.S., National Farmers Day has been observed on October 12 for many years as a way to acknowledge American farmers’ vital contributions to society. The exact origins of the day are partially unclear—there’s no widely documented legislative act founding it—but over time it has become a recognized observance in agriculture, community, and media circles.

Globally, “Farmers’ Day” (or equivalent observances) is celebrated in many countries on different dates, reflecting local agricultural traditions, harvest seasons, or national policies. In Ghana, for example, National Farmers’ Day is held the first Friday of December, where outstanding farmers are honored. In India, Kisan Diwas, or Farmer’s Day, is celebrated on December 23, coinciding with the birthday of a leader who championed farmers’ rights.

Why National Farmers Day is Important

Farmers are foundational to society. They don’t just produce food—they steward ecosystems, maintain soil health, support biodiversity, manage water resources, and sustain rural economies. Recognizing farmers helps remind us of the interconnectedness between what grows in fields and what ends up on our tables.

Also, many farmers face challenging conditions: unpredictable weather, market volatility, rising costs, land pressures, climate change, and labor shortages. Farmers’ Day offers a public moment to show gratitude, raise awareness of these challenges, and advocate for policies and supports (such as access to credit, technological assistance, conservation incentives, fair markets) that help farming communities thrive.

• It honors the labor, risks, and dedication of farmers
• It draws attention to agricultural challenges and resilience
• It reinforces the link between food systems and everyday life
• It can spark community events, education, and advocacy
• It encourages consumer support of local and sustainable agriculture

How to Observe Farmers’ Day

One meaningful way to observe National Farmers Day is to support your local farmers. Visit a farmers’ market, buy produce directly from farms, subscribe to a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) box, or simply mention to others that “farmers matter.” Sharing stories or photos of farms or farmers you know helps bring visibility.

You could also organize or attend an event: farm tours, open houses, agricultural demonstrations, “meet the farmer” dinners, talks about sustainable farming, or educational sessions (in schools or community centers) about where food comes from. You might also use social media to spotlight farmers’ voices, challenges, and innovations, using a hashtag like #FarmersDay or #NationalFarmersDay.

• Buy produce or goods from a local farm or farmers’ market
• Visit a nearby farm if open to the public
• Share a farmer’s story or photo on social media
• Advocate for policies supporting sustainable agriculture
• Host or attend a farm‑related educational event

National Farmers Day Dates Table