Fun in the Country to Support Young Farmers? Save These Dates

Northern Illinois Young Farmers Coalition Sets Farm-ily Reunion for September 19-21

With the average age of farmers in the United States hovering around 60, the need for a new generation of growers is one of the most pressing issues in the movement for a better, sustainable food system. There are many young people who long to launch or expand farming careers but face issues, none bigger than access to affordable land.

That said, our young farmers have to have fun too, which is why we're sharing this save-the-date for Northern Illinois Young Farmers Coalition's 4th annual Midwestern Farm-ily Reunion. This weekend in the north-central Illinois countryside will take place September 19 to 21 at Hazzard Free Farm in Pecatonica, Illinois west of Rockford.

Andrea (Andy) Hazzard, the host for the event, produces ancient and heirloom grains and is a stalwart advocate for a better and more sustainable food system.

Here's how NIYFC describes the event in their save-the-date post on Instagram:

How are you going to ask for help so you can take a day (or two 👀) away from the farm, unwind, and celebrate with your fellow farmers?

The time is now to ask that special friend to watch your veggies and animals so you can join us at Farm-ily 🧄🌽🐄.

Same location! Dinner under the big willow, lounging by the creek, campsites tucked away in the little meandering paths of @hazzardfreefarmgrains.

But new this year! A two-day extravaganza 💫 More time for relaxation, more time for friends, more time for shenanigans.

We’ll have special activities Friday night and Saturday before the dinner! Stay tuned for updates 🫧✨.

Tickets will go on sale in early August.

LEARN MORE ABOUT NIYFC

LEARN MORE ABOUT HAZZARD FREE FARM

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