PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Shapiro administration on Thursday announced that the 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show will carry the theme “Growing a Nation,” linking the state’s agricultural legacy to America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding unveiled the theme at Philadelphia’s historic Wyck House Farm and Garden, one of the nation’s oldest continuously cultivated urban farms. He emphasized that Pennsylvania’s farming tradition has been central to the state’s economy and identity since the nation’s founding.
“America was born in Pennsylvania, with its identity deeply rooted in agriculture,” Redding said. “Two hundred and fifty years later, Pennsylvania agriculture is still leading our nation, supplying the economic power, ingenuity, and innovation that is growing our nation’s future.” He highlighted the sector’s support of 600,000 jobs and its $132.5 billion contribution to the state economy, including more than $4 billion in agricultural and forest product exports.
The 2026 Farm Show, billed as the nation’s largest indoor agricultural exposition, will run from January 10 to January 17 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center in Harrisburg. More than half a million visitors are expected over the eight-day event, which will feature competitive agricultural events, cooking demonstrations, hands-on education, and the signature butter sculpture.
The announcement also underscored Pennsylvania’s role in the America250PA Semiquincentennial, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. “America250PA is proud to partner with the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the nation,” said Cassandra Coleman, executive director of America250PA. She noted the timing of the announcement, calling it “especially fitting to share this news in October,” when generations of farmers celebrate the harvest season.
Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration pointed to agriculture as a cornerstone of its broader economic development strategy, alongside energy, manufacturing, robotics, and technology. His proposed 2025-26 budget continues investments to foster innovation and strengthen the state’s competitive agricultural edge.
The Farm Show will serve as a focal point for commemorating Pennsylvania’s agricultural heritage while positioning the state as a driver of national growth in the years ahead.
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