By Blake Jackson
Farmers, tourism professionals, educators and community leaders from throughout New York State will gather in Geneva on November 4-5, 2026, for the New York State Agritourism Conference.
The event, according to the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, is designed to help agricultural businesses and tourism professionals strengthen and grow agritourism opportunities.
Organized by the Cornell Cooperative Extension Agritourism Program Work Team, the two-day conference will combine educational sessions, networking opportunities and practical resources.
The program is intended for participants who are developing new agritourism ventures as well as those looking to improve or expand established operations.
Attendees can select from two educational tracks featuring more than 18 speakers and professionals representing New York’s agriculture and tourism sectors. Sessions will cover emerging agritourism trends, business development, marketing, visitor experiences and sustainable strategies that can contribute to long-term success.
The conference will also include an evening regional networking reception, giving participants an opportunity to exchange ideas and develop connections with professionals from different parts of the industry. Attendees will also be able to interact with Taste NY vendors showcasing agricultural products grown and produced across the state.
“New York’s agritourism industry continues to play a vital role in supporting farms, local economies, and rural communities,” said conference organizers. “This conference offers a unique opportunity for attendees to learn from industry experts, share ideas, and build relationships that will help drive future success.”
The second day will offer attendees a choice between two hands-on learning opportunities.
The Agritourism Accessibility session will examine accessibility principles, ADA requirements and practical ways businesses can create more inclusive visitor experiences. The classroom portion will be followed by a visit to Muranda Cheese Company for a guided tour and cheese tasting. Participants will arrange their own transportation.
The Product Development session will focus on bringing food products from concept to market. Experts from the Cornell Food Venture Center will discuss product ideas, recipe development, food safety, regulations, processing, packaging, labeling and commercialization. The session is suitable for both new entrepreneurs and established producers.
Registration costs $125 per person and includes the evening networking reception and light snacks on both conference days.
More information and registration are available at https://nyagritourismconference.com/.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: New York, Business