Minnesota Agriculture Takes the Stage at Farm Aid 40

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is proud to be a sponsor of the 40th Annual Farm Aid Music Festival, coming to Minnesota on Saturday, September 20, 2025. As Farm Aid marks four decades of supporting family farmers, MDA staff will be on hand offering fun and interactive ways for festivalgoers to connect with Minnesota agriculture and discover resources that support farm families year-round.  

“Minnesota is honored to welcome Farm Aid on its milestone 40th anniversary,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. “Family farmers are the backbone of our state’s economy and culture, and Farm Aid shines a spotlight on the essential role they play in feeding our communities. We’re proud to showcase Minnesota agriculture on this national stage.”

The MDA will host a tent at Farm Aid 40 featuring representatives from the Emerging Farmers Office and Minnesota Grown, helping visitors discover everyday ways to support local farmers year-round. In addition, the MDA will host a Fan Mail for Farmers activity in Farm Aid’s HOMEGROWN Village. There, festivalgoers can learn about some of the daily challenges farmers face and write a postcard of thanks or encouragement to a Minnesota farm family.  

Farm Aid’s work aligns closely with MDA’s mission to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy.

If you or somebody you know is struggling with mental health, help is available. Call the Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline at 833-600-2670 or visit minnesotafarmstress.com for resources and support 24/7.

Farm Aid’s mission is to build a vibrant, family farm-centered system of agriculture in America. Farm Aid artists and board members Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews and Margo Price host an annual festival to raise funds to support Farm Aid’s work with family farmers and to inspire people to choose family farm food. Since 1985, Farm Aid, with the support of the artists who contribute their performances each year, has raised more than $85 million to support programs that help farmers thrive, expand the reach of the Good Food Movement, take action to change the dominant system of industrial agriculture and promote food from family farms. See the full Farm Aid 40 lineup at FarmAid.org.

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Media Contact
Nikki Warner, MDA Communications
651-238-7909
Nikki.Warner@state.mn.us