This Farmer's Day, we are celebrating the farmers and ranchers whose hard work and care sustain our communities and shape rural life across Western Canada. We mark the occasion by reflecting on the day's history and recognizing the ways they continue to strengthen the communities they call home.
Celebrated on the second Friday of June each year, Farmer's Day is an opportunity to recognize the people at the heart of our co-operative and our communities. While the way we mark the day has evolved over time, our commitment to honouring farmers remains as strong as ever. It's a moment to pause, reflect and say thank you to the individuals and families whose dedication and resilience inspire us every day—not just today, but year-round.
A Legacy of Recognizing Farmers
Farmer's Day has a long and meaningful history, rooted in the deep connection between agriculture and community life. For generations, it has been a time to recognize the hard work and dedication of farmers and ranchers, and to acknowledge the important role they play in feeding the world, supporting communities and sustaining rural life.
The origins of Farmer's Day date back to 1914, when it began as U.F.A. Sunday with a stronger focus on faith and reflection. Over time, it evolved into a broader celebration of agriculture and was officially recognized as Farmer's Day in 1945.
From the United Farmers Historical Society archives
In the decades that followed, the day was widely observed by UFA and others, even becoming a provincial school holiday. While traditions have changed, the spirit behind the day remains the same: a shared commitment to recognizing farmers and ranchers and the vital role they play in our communities.
Honouring the Next Generation of Farmers Through UFA's For Future Farmers Campaign
At its heart, recognizing farmers starts with telling their stories. Through UFA's For Future Farmers campaign, we're sharing the stories of the next generation of farmers, those who are taking the reins and leading the way for the future of Canadian ag.
These aren't scripted moments, they're honest reflections from young people who care deeply about the future of what they do and the communities they're part of. Their outlook and experiences offer a glimpse into the vision, resilience and values that continue to shape agriculture across the Prairies.
Shared through billboards, print, and digital channels, these stories shine a light on the future generation of farming, ensuring their contributions are recognized and celebrated not just on Farmer's Day, but throughout the year.
Their stories will be available here so be sure to check back often:
https://ufa.com/ca/cooperative/about/who-we-are/our-stories
Investing in Rural Communities
Supporting farmers also means supporting the communities around them.
Farmer's Day marks the opening of applications for the UFA Agricultural Community Foundation's (UFA Foundation) Rural Communities (RC) Grants program. This year the program will provide five (5) $20,000 grants for a total investment of $100,000 to support eligible capital projects in rural communities.
Charitable and non-profit organizations, along with community service-oriented co-operatives, are invited to apply for funding to support recreational, educational and cultural facilities and programs that enrich rural life. Learn more and apply here.
Since 2024, the UFA Foundation has invested in projects and initiatives that strengthen agricultural communities, building a lasting legacy of growth and opportunity.
It's a meaningful way to celebrate farmers and ranchers while supporting vibrant, connected communities.
Lighting Up Alberta for Farmer's Day
Each year, the UFA Historical Society marks Farmer's Day with a province-wide light-up tradition.
On Friday evening, six landmarks will be illuminated in UFA's green and orange, serving as a visible thank you to farmers and ranchers and a reminder of the lasting impact agriculture has across communities.
This year's participating locations include:
- Alberta Legislature
- Calgary Tower
- Calgary TELUS Spark
- Lethbridge City Hall
- Red Deer City Hall
- Sylvan Lake Lighthouse
Across our network, communities are finding their own ways to mark Farmer's Day with moments of connection and appreciation. On Friday, June 12, several locations will be hosting local events, creating space for neighbours, members and customers to come together.
From lunch gatherings to coffee, donuts and other treats, these events reflect the spirit of Farmer's Day, simple, meaningful ways to say thank you and celebrate rural life.
Participating locations include Airdrie, Camrose, Fairview, Fort Saskatchewan, Grimshaw, Hanna, La Crete, Lethbridge, Mayerthorpe, Olds, Ponoka, Red Deer, Spruce Grove, St. Paul, Stettler, Taber and Trochu.
Events may vary by community, and additional locations may also choose to take part, reflecting what works best locally.
Thank You to the Farmers, Ranchers and Communities We Serve
To our members and customers who support farmers every day, who come from farm families, or who are farmers themselves, thank you.
From all of us at UFA, Happy Farmer's Day!
