Registration Now Open for Maryland’s Farmers Market Conference

Registration Now Open for Maryland’s Farmers Market Conference

Annual Event Scheduled for March 10, 2026

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 20, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture today announced that registration is now open for the 2026 Maryland Farmers Market Conference. 

The annual conference brings together local farmers’ markets and farmers to share topics that will support and promote the success of farmers’ markets across the state. The conference will be held on Tuesday, March 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Maryland Department of Agriculture in Annapolis. Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks will be the keynote speaker and will be on hand for a meet and greet with participants. 

“Our farmers’ markets are the heart of Maryland’s communities, providing a direct link between farmers and the families they feed,” said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. “I’m looking forward to serving as this year’s keynote speaker and sitting down with our market managers and producers. This conference is about giving our agricultural partners the practical tools they need to ensure 2026 is their most successful season yet.”

Direct marketing farmers, farmers market managers, agricultural professionals, and local food supporters are invited to hear from leaders working in food access programs, current issues facing farmers markets, such as conflict resolution, value-added food regulations, and immigration and enforcement trends. The event will also feature a marketing panel where we’ll hear about different strategies to promote your small farm or organization. Breakout sessions will allow participants to dive deeper into marketing, conflict resolution, and nutrient management plans.

Farmers Market Nutrition Program training and reauthorization will be available for all new and returning farmers participating in the program. This is an opportunity to complete required program authorization, ask questions, and ensure you are ready for the upcoming season.

Throughout the day, participating organizations will be available between sessions and during lunch to share resources and provide technical assistance. Maryland Market Money, now a program of MDA, will also be on site to share information. In addition, farmers are also encouraged to bring their scales to be certified with the MDA Weights and Measures office on-site.

Tickets to the conference are $35. Space is limited to the first 90 guests who reserve their ticket and send payment. Locally sourced breakfast pastries and lunch will be provided. Register for the conference here.

For questions, please reach out to Sara Servin at [email protected]

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