Agritourism Brings Us Togerther: Michigan Agritourism Celebrates 20 Years at Convention in Frankenmuth

Agritourism Brings Us Togerther: Michigan Agritourism Celebrates 20 Years at Convention in Frankenmuth

September 2, 2026 (Lansing, MI)  Michigan’s agritourism community will come together in Frankenmuth this November as the Michigan Agritourism Association celebrates 20 years supporting the industry. With the theme “Agritourism Brings Us Together”, farmers, industry leaders, educators and partners will come together for three days of learning, connection and inspiration.

Hosted at the Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth, the convention takes place November 4-6, 2026. The gathering is designed specifically for farmers with retail markets or agricultural experiences such as U-pick, tours, events and educational activities. along with farmers exploring or expanding agritourism operations.

“Agritourism is about connection, between farmers and families, land and legacy, tradition and innovation,” says Janice Benson, Executive Director of the Michigan Agritourism Association. “By inviting people to experience agriculture firsthand, these farmers are building relationships with their customers and communities – creating connections that foster loyalty and keep visitors coming back year after year.”

Convention highlights:

  • Informative educational sessions and interactive workshops
  • An agritourism trade show
  • Inspiring stories from Michigan farmers and nationally recognized leaders
  • Networking opportunities with fellow farmers and industry partners
  • Off-site, behind-the-scenes tours

The program will also introduce the new Michigan Agritourism Toolkit, providing resources to  help farms navigate growth, regulatory considerations and best practices. Speakers include best-selling author and speaker, Michele Payn; NAFDMA International Agritourism Association’s Executive Director Suzi Spahr, National Agricultural Law Center’s Senior Staff Attorney, Rusty Rumley, WJR’s Travel Show Host and former state travel director, Dave Lorenz., Michigan Department of Agriculture’s Director Timothy Boring and Michigan Farm Bureau’s President, Ben La Cross.

Registration details are available at https://www.michiganfarmfun.com/convention26

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Michigan Agritourism is a non-profit association that supports the agritourism industry through promotion, education, advocacy, problem resolution and networking. Its goal is to keep family farms sustainable, support local economic growth and provide rich and unique experiences for visitors to make lasting memories.