International Year of the Woman Farmer

Come celebrate the amazing women farmers who keep our world growing and thriving in a fun, down-to-earth gathering!
About this Event

In 2024, the United Nations General Assembly designated 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF 2026). Led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), this global initiative recognizes women's essential contributions to agriculture while raising awareness of the challenges many still face. The International Year encourages communities, organizations, and governments to celebrate women farmers, promote their leadership, and support policies and programs that strengthen opportunities for women throughout agriculture.

Women have always been essential to agriculture. They manage farms and ranches, raise livestock and crops, operate agricultural businesses, conduct research, educate future generations, and serve as leaders in their communities. Their work sustains families, strengthens rural economies, and helps ensure a safe, abundant, and resilient food system.

In North Carolina, women continue to shape every sector of agriculture, from family farms and agribusinesses to Extension, education, research, healthcare, and public service. The NC Agromedicine Institute is proud to join this international celebration by recognizing women's achievements, leadership, and resilience across our state’s agricultural communities.

Visit our event website

https://ncagromedicine.org/international-year-woman-farmer-nc/

Event Agenda

• Doors open: 5:00 PM
• Welcome and opening remarks: 5:30 PM
• Panel Group: 6:00 PM
• Concluding remarks and resource sharing: 7:00 PM

Event Sponsorship

We are currently accepting event sponsors. View event sponsorship information here: https://canva.link/iywf-sponsor-info

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there a cost to attend this event? Registration for the International Year of the Woman Farmer Celebration is free. However, the event takes place inside the N.C. State Fair, so attendees will still need to purchase admission to the State Fair. For information about State Fair admission and tickets, visit https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/nc-state-fair/plan-your-visit.
2. Where is the event located? The event will be held in the N.C. State Fair Hospitality Tent. The Hospitality Tent is conveniently located just inside Gate 6 off Youth Center Drive. and is listed as #20 on the State Fair map. View the State Fair map for additional details at https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/nc-state-fair/grounds-map/open.
3. Is the event accessible? Yes. The Hospitality Tent will have flooring, and a paved walkway leads to the tent. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, please contact the event organizer before the event by calling 252-744-1008 or emailing [email protected].
4. Will food and drinks be provided? Yes! Food and nonalcoholic beverages will be served during the event. You are also welcome to bring along your favorite State Fair snacks.
5. Can children attend? Yes, children are welcome to attend. Please register any child who will need their own seat so we can maintain an accurate event headcount.
6. What if I register and can no longer attend? If your plans change, please cancel your registration through Eventbrite or contact the event organizer as soon as possible. This allows us to keep an accurate headcount and offer your spot to someone on the waitlist.
7. Do I need to bring my Eventbrite ticket? We recommend keeping your Eventbrite registration confirmation available on your phone in case it is needed at check-in. Your Eventbrite registration is separate from your N.C. State Fair admission ticket.
8. What time should I arrive? Doors will open at 5:00 p.m., with the program running from 5:30–7:00 p.m. Please allow additional time to enter the State Fair, park, and walk to the Hospitality Tent.
9. What should I wear? Come as you are! We recommend comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather since you may be walking through the fairgrounds.
10. Who should I contact with questions? Please call the NC Agromedicine Institute at 252-744-1008 or email [email protected] for questions about registration, accessibility, or the event.
11. Where should I park? Free parking is available on State Fair, Carter-Finley Football Stadium, and Lenovo Center properties. Fairgoers are encouraged to take Wade Avenue to the Edwards Mill Extension to park in these lots. Exceptions may apply if events are scheduled at Carter-Finley or Lenovo Center. During the Fair, neighboring residents frequently convert parts of their property to small parking lots. This is not controlled by the NC State Fair. State Fair. https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/nc-state-fair/plan-your-visit/getting-here-parking