National Farmers Day

Posted by Diane Mullins on Tuesday, October 12, 2021 at 7:00 AM By Diane Mullins / October 12, 2021 Comment

WHAT IS FARMERS DAY?

Farmers Day is celebrated every year on October 12! The profession of farming began around 12,000 years ago with the domestication of livestock as hunter/gatherers settled down and started to plant their own food. In short, farming is one of the oldest jobs around. So let‘s take a moment to give some love to all the farmers who work tirelessly to feed us year round.

Farmers Day in the U.S is observed on October 12 every year. Other countries celebrate the holiday on different days, with India and Pakistan holding large celebrations in December.

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 12th.

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.

TRADITIONS OF NATIONAL FARMERS DAY

Thank a farmer

They’re the backbone of the breadbasket and what feeds not just this country, but many other nations as agriculture is usually a major export. Make sure you thank a farmer today for all their hard work keeping bread on tables everywhere!

Buy from a local farmer

One of the best ways to thank a farmer is with your wallet. Head to a farmer’s market or join a local CSA (community supported agriculture) to get some fresh, local produce, eggs, or even grass-fed meat.

Start a garden

Or become one yourself! Growing your own food is one of hte most sustainable and rewarding ways to celebrate National Farmer’s Day. It may have a tough learning curve to plant and grow just a few tomatoes, but the taste of tomatoes right off the vine will make it all worth it.

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.