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January 08, 2026- Harrisburg, PA

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding, American Founding Father Benjamin Franklin Lead Tour of 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show Must-See Exhibits, Events

Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding and Founding Father Benjamin Franklin led a tour of must-see exhibits, new events, competitions, and quality Pennsylvania-produced foods - to be featured during the 2026 PA Farm Show, Pennsylvania's State Fair™. The 2026 theme, Growing A Nation, celebrates Pennsylvania's critical role in shaping the United States through agriculture and how Pennsylvania's agriculture and food industries continue to drive economic growth, innovation, and prosperity.

"The Pennsylvania Farm Show is reason to celebrate every year," Secretary Redding said. "This year in particular, commemorating agriculture's role in the life of our nation makes these eight days an even more meaningful opportunity to foster understanding, positive relationships, and connections with the men and women who grow our food each day. Bringing Americans of all walks of life together in this great million-square-foot classroom is the best way I know of to explore where we have been, and where progress in Pennsylvania agriculture is taking us."

The 2026 Farm Show is the official kickoff of America250PA celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. America250PA celebrates Pennsylvania's pivotal place in U.S. history as one of the original 13 colonies and its contributions to the nation's founding, democratic traditions, and future prosperity.

Pennsylvanians who have been key figures in our commonwealth and nation's history will make appearances throughout the week, alongside innovative Pennsylvanians in agriculture who are revolutionizing the way we do business.

Speakers Include:
Heidi Svonavec - Executive Director of the PA Farm Show Complex and Expo Center
Russell Redding - Secretary, PA Dept. of Agriculture
Benjamin Franklin

Order of Tour Interviews:
Jonathan Geyer - Host Pennsylvania Hardwoods Development Council Director
Jen Brodsky - Farmer, Pie Bird Farm and Regenerative Food Business Consultant, True North Collective
Chef Kurt Wewer - PA Preferred Culinary Connection
Ellie Vranich - Hollabaugh Brothers' Orchards and Pennsylvania Apple Board
Madi Shaw - Angorapalooza & Fiber Exhibit
Cassandra Coleman - Executive Director, America 250PA
Sarah Firestone - President, Future Farmers of America (FFA)

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