UPDATE: The Farmers’ Almanac, an iconic staple of American culture for over 208 years, has just announced that its 2026 edition will be its last. This shocking decision was confirmed on November 6 by editors Sandi Duncan and Peter Geiger in a heartfelt message on the almanac’s website.
The almanac, first published in 1818 in Morristown, New Jersey, has been a trusted source for long-range weather forecasts, gardening advice, and folk wisdom. However, the publishers cited “financial challenges in a chaotic media environment” as the driving force behind this difficult decision.
“After more than 200 years of sharing a unique blend of weather, wit, and wisdom, we’ve made the very difficult decision to write the final chapter of this historical publication,” Duncan and Geiger stated. This heartfelt farewell marks the end of an era for countless readers who have relied on its advice for farming, gardening, and seasonal planning.
The Farmers’ Almanac has been a go-to resource, often touted for its predictions, which combined astronomical data with folk knowledge. Despite a 2010 study from the University of Illinois suggesting the almanac’s long-range forecasts had a 52% accuracy rate—similar to flipping a coin—it remained a cherished guide for many. Readers historically sought its wisdom on various topics, from the best days to plant crops to timing important family events.
As the publication prepares to close its doors, it leaves behind a legacy that has helped generations of farmers plan their crops and navigate the seasons. The almanac’s final winter forecast for the Great Lakes region predicts a “classic winter wonderland,” with cold temperatures lingering into spring and a significant snowstorm expected from February 8-11.
While the Farmers’ Almanac will cease to exist in print or online, the editors expressed gratitude to their readers and contributors, saying, “Though the Almanac will no longer be available, it lives on within you.” They encourage readers to carry on its traditions, such as planting peas when daffodils bloom.
The Farmers’ Almanac will remain on shelves at local supermarkets and pharmacies, as well as online at farmersalmanac.com, until December. This bittersweet conclusion resonates deeply with loyal fans who will surely miss the almanac’s folksy charm and practical guidance.
As the final chapter closes, the legacy of the Farmers’ Almanac will undoubtedly continue to spark conversations and memories among families for years to come.
