The 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show wrapped up with a significant impact on both local communities and the state’s agricultural landscape. The event, which celebrated Pennsylvania’s extensive $132.5 billion agriculture sector, attracted around 500,000 attendees over eight days filled with exhibitions, competitions, and culinary offerings.
WVIA News seized the opportunity to explore the show’s significance, focusing on topics pertinent to Pennsylvania’s agricultural scene, such as potato farming, bird flu, and rodeo events. Throughout the week, WVIA News provided live updates from Harrisburg, alongside in-depth reports on state farming trends.
Notable Attendees
The Farm Show boasted nearly 5,000 animals and over 12,000 competitive entries from 4,600 participants, alongside 250 commercial exhibits and numerous events. State officials reported that both Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins attended the show. Redding indicated that they discussed shared concerns, including avian influenza and tariff issues affecting farmers.
“She said, ‘What’s on the minds of farmers?'” Redding recounted. “And I said, ‘Listen, this tariff issue weighs large. And it shows up in different ways.'” More details on their visit can be found here.
Pennsylvania’s Potato Legacy
Pennsylvania’s potato farming heritage played a central role at the show. Nathan Tallman, CEO of the Pennsylvania Co-operative Potato Growers, highlighted the state’s status as “the snack food capital of the world.” With over two dozen potato farms producing numerous varieties, the cooperative partners with major processors like UTZ and Herr’s. Show attendees enjoyed potato-based treats like french fries and potato donuts. Explore more about Pennsylvania’s potato industry here.
Avian Influenza Concerns
Despite the 2022 avian flu outbreak, the poultry industry displayed resilience at the Farm Show. Various poultry breeds, including turkeys, were showcased, with experts stating that the situation is under control. The USDA reported no recent bird flu cases in Northeast or Central Pennsylvania as of January 21. Redding emphasized ongoing efforts in biosecurity and monitoring to prevent future outbreaks. Read more about the poultry industry’s recovery here.
Inclusive Rodeo Events
Prior to the First Frontier Circuit Finals Rodeo, organizers hosted an Exceptional Rodeo for children with special needs. Participants engaged in activities like barrel racing and calf roping, guided by professional rodeo cowboys. “It’s something that everybody loves to do. It’s very fulfilling for the contestants, everybody involved,” said organizer Becky Clanton. This initiative provided a platform for children to participate and enjoy the rodeo experience.
Additional Highlights and Statistics
2026 Pa. Farm Show facts and stats
Selected statistics about the show from Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture officials:
● Pennsylvania FFA Foundation sold 25,000 slices of pizza, with 1,700 lbs. of mozzarella cheese and 20,000 lemonade servings from 4,400 lbs. of lemons.
● Pennsylvania Beekeepers Association served 497 gallons of ice cream, 14,000 honey sticks, 2.5 tons of honey, and sold 950 lbs. of beeswax.
● Pennsylvania Cooperative Potato Growers treated visitors to 23,000 lbs. of fresh cut french fries, 9,000 lbs. of baked potatoes, 90,000 pierogies, 550 gallons of batter in potato cakes, 2,000 lbs. of baked sweet potatoes, and 20,000 lbs. of potato donuts.
● Mushroom Farmers of Pennsylvania sold 10,000 pounds of mushrooms in six menu items.
● Pennsylvania Livestock Association pleased crowds with more than 30,000 pounds of pork, beef, and other products.
● PA Dairymen’s Association patrons downed 20,200 gallons of milkshakes, 1,600 loaves of bread for grilled cheese sandwiches, and 7,200 pounds of mozzarella cheese cubes.
● Eighteen calves from four family-run dairy farms were born at the Calving Corner.
● Delegations from 37 countries networked with Pennsylvania agricultural trade leaders.
● The PA Farm Show Scholarship Foundation awarded 21 college students from 18 counties and 10 universities with $6,000 scholarships, with an additional $1,500 per student from the Bill and Betsy Macauley Foundation.
● Redding announced a $600,345 investment in PA Farm Bill Agriculture & Youth Grants, including 15 matching and 47 direct awards to organizations in 33 counties.
