Started in 1955 as a collaboration between Henderson County Cooperative Extension and Kiwanis. Today, Farm City Day celebrates Henderson County’s rural traditions and introduces the urban population to some common farming activities from today and the past.

The event features many educational hands-on activities, including a farm animal petting zoo, old-time craft demonstrations and a fishing pond. There are many children’s games and a wagon ride though the park. Planned entertainment includes the WTZQ Radio’s Local Artist Showcase Stage showcasing musicians performing throughout the day. Food vendors and displays cover 50 acres of Jackson Park the first Saturday of October annually.

The mission of Farm City Day is to increase the ‘agricultural awareness’ of Henderson County’s youth. Surveys of young people across the country have shown that children lack basic knowledge about how their food is produced. Many areas of our state have been labeled a ‘food desert’ by the USDA, meaning access to fresh foods is low. County Agents with NC State Cooperative Extension work to increase agricultural awareness and fresh food opportunities among members of their communities. Agricultural, 4-H and Family and Consumer Science Agents create programs individually and collaboratively to increase agricultural awareness and fresh food opportunities for local residents.

For over four decades, Farm City Day has brought together the heart of our region—connecting urban neighbors with rural agriculture for a day of celebration, education, and family fun. By becoming an official sponsor, your organization plays a direct role in keeping this beloved tradition free and accessible to thousands of local families while showcasing your commitment to community growth.

Why Sponsor Farm City Day?

• High-Impact Brand Visibility: Reach thousands of local attendees, families, and business leaders through prominent event signage, promotional materials, social media campaigns, and website placement.
• Direct Engagement: Connect face-to-face with community members through interactive booth spaces and sponsor activities.
• Community Support: Demonstrate your investment in the small businesses, farmers, and artisans who make our region thrive.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please fill out the form and email it to Lia Beddingfield Chapman at Lia_Beddingfield@ncsu.edu.

Sponsorships must be paid via check only. Checks should be made payable to N.C. Cooperative Extension (or NCCE). Mail checks to Farm City Day, c/o Keai Tilly, NC Cooperative Extension –Henderson County, 100 Jackson Park Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792.

For questions or more information, please contact Steve Pettis at 828-697-4891

We are seeking passionate local farms, agricultural cooperatives, educational organizations, and businesses to give families a vivid, hands-on demonstration of "where our food comes from". We want to incorporate interactive displays focused on farming practices, crop cycles, and animal husbandry, alongside vendors selling fresh, locally grown flowers, produce, and meat. This is a unique platform to share your knowledge, sell your goods, and connect directly with hundreds of curious minds.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, please fill out the application and email it to Lia Beddingfield Chapman at Lia_Beddingfield@ncsu.edu.

We will contact you as soon as possible to let you know if your application has been accepted.

For questions or more information, please contact Steve Pettis at 828-697-4891