National Agriculture Day, also known as Ag Day, is a celebration that recognizes and celebrates the abundance provided by agriculture in our daily lives. This day honors farmers, ranchers, and all those involved in various aspects of agriculture.
Quick Facts
When is it?: March 19, 2024 (changes annually, falling during National Agriculture Week)
Tagged as: Agricultural awareness and celebration
What’s the hashtag?: #AgDay and #AgDay2024
When was it founded?: 1973
Who founded it?: Agriculture Council of America (ACA)
History
The Agriculture Council of America established National Agriculture Day to increase public awareness about agriculture’s crucial role in modern society. The initiative began as a way to educate Americans about how food and fiber products are produced, the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy, and the career opportunities in agricultural industries.
Timeline
- 1973: First National Agriculture Day celebrated
- 1988: National Agriculture Week introduced
- 2001: Online celebration components added
- 2011: First virtual national celebration launched
- 2020: Virtual celebrations became primary due to global circumstances
Dates by Next Year (2025-2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 18 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | March 17 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | March 16 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | March 21 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | March 20 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | March 19 | Tuesday |
Observed
National Agriculture Day is celebrated nationwide through various events, including educational programs in schools, public awareness campaigns, and special recognitions of farmers and agricultural workers. Many organizations host local events, farm tours, and agricultural demonstrations.
Fun Facts About Agriculture
- About 98% of U.S. farms are operated by families
- One U.S. farm feeds 166 people annually
- Agriculture provides one in twelve U.S. jobs
- Women make up 36% of total U.S. farmers
- Nearly 8% of U.S. farms sell directly to consumers
Quiz
- In which year was National Agriculture Day founded?
- What percentage of U.S. farms are family-operated?
- Who established National Agriculture Day?
- What month is National Agriculture Day typically celebrated?
Answers:
- 1973
- 98%
- Agriculture Council of America
- March
FAQs
Q: Why do we celebrate National Agriculture Day?
A: To recognize the contribution of agriculture in our daily lives and honor those who work in the agricultural sector.
Q: How can I participate in National Agriculture Day?
A: You can attend local agricultural events, visit farms, support local farmers’ markets, or organize educational activities.
Q: Is it celebrated internationally?
A: While primarily a U.S. celebration, many countries have similar observances celebrating agriculture.
Importance
National Agriculture Day plays a vital role in:
- Raising awareness about agriculture’s significance in daily life
- Educating the public about food production and security
- Highlighting career opportunities in agriculture
- Recognizing farmers’ and ranchers’ contributions
- Promoting sustainable agricultural practices
Related
- National Agriculture Week
- World Food Day
- Farm Safety Day
- National Farmers Day
- Earth Day
- National Farm Animals Day
- World Soil Day
- National Farm Safety Week