National Farmer’s Day on October 12th marks a special time set aside during harvest season to recognize the hard work and dedication of farmers who provide us with the essential ingredients we need to bake. We rely on the bounty of the land—from grains and fruits to dairy and vegetables, to bake the food we need to nourish and support our families. National Farmer’s Day is a perfect time reflect on how we can support these vital contributors to our food system. Here are several ways bakers can show their appreciation and make a positive impact on the farming community.

1. Create Seasonal Menus

Utilize seasonal ingredients in your baking to highlight your favorite produce and grains. By crafting menus that change with the seasons, you can showcase what farmers are growing in your area. Whether it’s pumpkin spice treats in the fall or berry tarts in the summer, seasonal menus celebrate the farmers’ hard work while giving your customers a taste of freshness. Here’s a great selection of fall recipes from King Arthur Baking Company!

4. Help Educate Others

Use your baking and classroom as a platform to educate others about the importance of supporting local agriculture. Share stories about the farmers you work with, their farming practices, and the benefits of local sourcing. This can be done through social media, classroom assignments, or signage at your favorite bakeries and cafes. By raising awareness, you encourage folks to think about where their food comes from and the impact of their purchasing decisions.

3. Host A Farm to Table Dinner or Bake Sale

Consider hosting a dinner party or bake sale featuring local ingredients, it can be a fun way to connect your community with the farmers who grow their food. These gatherings can also foster a greater appreciation for the labor that goes into producing high-quality ingredients. Here’s everything you need to know about hosting a bake sale!

4. Thank A Farmer

We invite all students to write Thank You letters to local farmers, sharing their appreciation for the delicious fruits, vegetables, wheat and grains that nourish us. This simple act of kindness can foster a deeper understanding of where our food comes from and the vital role farmers play in our community.

To support this initiative, we recommend exploring lesson plans and activities like this Farmer Appreciation Day resource. Search for engaging resources and ideas to help students craft meaningful messages and learn more about local agriculture. Learn about the farmers in your community.

Meet Tom Leeper

Roy Motter farms 2,500 acres in the Imperial Valley of California. Farming since the 1970s, he grows wheat, lettuce, cabbage, onions and sugar beets.

Ardis Hammock

Alan & Ardis Hammock are dedicated sugar cane growers in Florida, where they manage their farm with a commitment to educating the next generation of farmers.

Meet Eric Maier

Eric Maier’s family farms nearly 7,000 acres around Ritzville, Washington, and their wheat is used to produce baking flour for things like sponge cake and flatbread.

National Farmer’s Day is a perfect opportunity to send a card or share kind words with farmers in your community. Have you visited your local farmer’s market recently? Now is an excellent time to do so!

5. Advocate for Farmers

Use your voice to advocate for policies that support local agriculture. Whether it’s writing to your local representatives or joining initiatives that promote sustainable farming, your influence as a baker can help create a better environment for farmers. Consider joining local organizations that focus on agricultural advocacy like Future Farmers of America. 

On National Farmer’s Day, let’s take a moment to celebrate the farmers who play a crucial role in our baking journeys. By supporting them through local sourcing, education, collaboration, and advocacy, we not only enhance our own craft but also contribute to a sustainable food system that benefits everyone. Let’s honor our farmers—not just today, but every day—by making choices that support their hard work and dedication. Happy National Farmer’s Day!