Annual Mid-Atlantic Black Farmers Conference & Delaware Farm Crawl
About this Event
Mid-Atlantic Black Farmers Conference & Delaware Farm Crawl
The Mid-Atlantic Black Farmers Conference returns this summer for two days of community, culture, agriculture, and celebration — our biggest gathering yet!
This year, we're merging our annual conference with the Delaware Farm Crawl, bringing together farmers, food advocates, community members, and change-makers across the region for an unforgettable weekend rooted in Black agricultural excellence.
Guided by this year's theme, Community Power, we gather to remind ourselves that our farms, our food, and our futures are strongest when we build and grow together.
📅 DAY 1 — Friday, August 28
DSU Campus + DSU Smyrna Outreach & Research Center
🎓 MORNING: Workshop Sessions | DSU Campus
Kick off the conference with dynamic, educator-led workshop sessions covering topics at the intersection of agriculture, economics, policy, and community resilience. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just beginning your journey, there's something here for you.
🍽️ MIDDAY: Keynote Luncheon | DSU Campus
Gather for a keynote lunch featuring inspiring voices from across the Black farming and food sovereignty movement. More details on speakers coming soon.
🌾 AFTERNOON (2:00 PM): Activities Move to DSU's Smyrna Outreach & Research Center
Five miles from DSU's main campus, the Delaware State University Smyrna Outreach and Research Center (SORC) is a working hub for fruit and crop production research and agricultural demonstrations. This is where the afternoon comes alive.
In partnership with Delaware State University Extension, the SORC will host:
• Agricultural Demonstrations — See cutting-edge research and fruit and crop production systems in action on working farmland
• Food & Nutrition Showcases — Learn about healthy food systems and the power of what we grow
• Textiles & Modeling — A creative showcase presented by DSU Extension celebrating fiber arts and agricultural craftsmanship
• Vendors & Food Trucks — Shop local Black-owned and farm-forward vendors and enjoy fresh food on-site
👗 EVENING: Fashion Show presented by MABFC
Close out Day 1 in style. MABFC's signature fashion show celebrates Black creativity, culture, and identity — right on the farm. This is one for the 'gram.
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🚌 DAY 2 — Saturday, August 29
2nd Annual Delaware Farm Crawl
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Across Delaware
Eight Delaware farms will open their doors to the public for a self-guided agricultural experience unlike any other. Each farm will offer its own unique activities — from tastings and tours to workshops and demonstrations.
Plan your own route and explore at your own pace, or hop on the MABFC bus departing from DSU's campus for a guided tour of participating farms.
🚌 Bus Departure: DSU Campus | Details & times TBA
🗺️ Farm locations and activities will be shared with registered attendees
🎉 CLOSING: Block Party at Messiah's Market & The Village Tree
Cap off an incredible weekend at the block party — music, food, fellowship, and celebration. It's the perfect send-off for a weekend that proves what Community Power really looks like. Come as you are. Bring the whole family.
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🤝 In Partnership with Delaware State University Extension & the DSU Smyrna Outreach and Research Center
DSU's Smyrna Outreach and Research Center is a premier agricultural research facility dedicated to advancing fruit and crop production systems — and a powerful example of the kind of institution-community partnerships that make Community Power real.
This event is organized by the Mid-Atlantic Black Farmers Collective (MABFC), a community dedicated to supporting, uplifting, and connecting Black farmers and food entrepreneurs across the Mid-Atlantic region.
Questions? Contact us at [email protected] | Follow us @blackfarmerscoop
Registration
Early Bird Registration ends June 30th 30, 2026 – don’t miss your chance to secure your spot at the best rate.
Ticket Tiers
(*Access to the Delaware Farm Crawl on Saturday 8/29 is free and open to the public)
Full Conference Pass – Member Admission: Discounted admission for active members of the Mid-Atlantic Black Farmers Caucus. Includes access to all workshop sessions, key-note lunch, and all activities and demonstrations at DSU Smyrna Farm on Friday, August 28 (Day 1). Optional seat on Delaware Farm Crawl Bus on Saturday, August 29 (Day 2) is included, plus entry to the Block Party Celebration at Messiah's Market & the Village Tree (Saturday evening). Early-bird registration cost: $50 (regular $75)
Full Conference Pass – Non-Member Admission: Includes access to morning workshop sessions, key-note lunch, and all activities and demonstrations at DSU Smyrna Farm. August 28 (Day 1). Early-bird registration cost: $75 (regular $100)
Student Pass: Reduced rate for students. Includes the same access as a full conference pass (Days 1–2). Proof of student ID or farm affiliation may be requested. Early-bird registration cost: $40 (regular $50)
Reserve your Room:
Overnight accommodations are available for a discounted rate of $XXX++ per night, Thurs, Fri & Sat, at the TBD - Address.*Please call (XXX) XXX-XXXX to reserve your room and mention the Mid-Atlantic Black Farmers Caucus Room Block or visit, Block Link, to secure your room today.
Day 1: Agenda
🕑: 07:30 AM - 09:00 AM
Registration Open
🕑: 08:30 AM - 08:45 AM
Morning Grounding
🕑: 08:45 AM - 09:15 AM
Welcome & Opening Remark
🕑: 09:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Breakout Sessions Block A
🕑: 10:45 AM - 11:45 AM
Breakout Sessions Block B
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:30 PM
Lunch & Keynote
🕑: 02:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Transition to DSU Smyrna Farm
Info: Featuring agricultural demonstrations, food and nutrition showcases, textiles/modeling, and vendor opportunities
🕑: 05:00 PM - 07:00 PM
MABFC Fashion Show
Day 2: Agenda
🕑: 10:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Delaware Farm Crawl
🕑: 04:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Block Party at Messiah's Market & the Village Tree
Where is it happening?
USD 44.52 to USD 135.23
