Key Takeaways
- Farm Technology Days (FTD) is Wisconsin’s premier agricultural showcase, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year across different host counties.
- The event blends tradition and innovation, featuring historic farm equipment alongside cutting‑edge technology such as drones, robotic milking systems, and precision‑agriculture tools.
- Educational programming includes safety demonstrations, soil‑pit exhibits, youth‑focused activities (Plinko, Tot Spot, blacksmith demos), and livestock showcases.
- Host farms vary widely—from large dairy operations with over 500 registered cattle to specialty farms like the world’s largest horseradish grower—highlighting the state’s agricultural diversity.
- Food service has evolved from volunteer‑run large tents to a variety of food trucks, improving convenience and offering diverse culinary options.
- FTD generates significant economic activity for host communities and strengthens networking among farmers, industry vendors, Extension educators, and the public.
Overview of Farm Technology Days
Farm Technology Days (FTD) is an annual, multi‑day exhibition that travels throughout Wisconsin, bringing together farmers, agribusinesses, educators, and the general public to celebrate and learn about modern agriculture. First launched in the mid‑20th century, the show has grown into the state’s largest agricultural event, routinely drawing tens of thousands of attendees. Each edition is hosted by a different farm family, which opens its property to create a temporary “Tent City” where exhibits, demonstrations, and vendor booths are set up. The rotating host model ensures that the showcase reflects the varied landscapes and production systems found across Wisconsin’s 72 counties.
Attendance and Demographics
Visitors to FTD span all ages and experience levels. Seasoned farmers come to see the latest equipment and hear expert talks, while younger generations and school groups are attracted by interactive displays such as educational Plinko games, blacksmith demonstrations, and the Tot Spot play area. The 2026 event slated for No Joke Dairy Farm in Marathon County anticipates a particularly large crowd, building on the tradition of strong attendance seen in recent years—such as the 2025 Waupaca show and the 2022 Clark County gathering. This broad appeal underscores FTD’s role as both a professional trade show and a community festival.
Historical Host Farms
Over the decades, FTD has been hosted by a diverse array of operations that illustrate Wisconsin’s agricultural breadth. In 2022, Clark County’s Roehl Acres and Rustic Occasions, owned by Dennis and Suzie Roehl, welcomed visitors with a dairy herd exceeding 500 registered cattle. Wood County’s 2018 edition was hosted by D&B Sternweis Farms and Heiman Holsteins near Marshfield, while Eau Claire County’s 2021 show took place at Huntsinger Farms, renowned as the world’s largest grower and processor of horseradish. Each host farm brings its own specialties to the forefront, allowing attendees to explore everything from large‑scale dairy parlors to niche specialty crops.
Equipment Exhibits: Old Meets New
A perennial highlight of FTD is the display of both vintage and state‑of‑the‑art machinery. Old tractors, plows, and harvesters evoke nostalgia and remind attendees of the industry’s roots, while modern exhibits showcase GPS‑guided planters, autonomous tractors, and advanced irrigation systems. Vendors eagerly demonstrate cutting‑edge equipment, and visitors often see familiar farm staples repurposed for fun—such as a gravity box turned into a basketball hoop for youngsters. This blend of heritage and innovation helps farmers evaluate how new tools might integrate into their existing operations.
Technological Demonstrations
Beyond static displays, FTD features live demonstrations that bring technology to life. Drone flights over fields draw crowds eager to see how aerial imaging can improve scouting and input management. Robotic milking parlors, like the unique system shown by Ebert Enterprises in Kewaunee County, illustrate labor‑saving advancements for dairy producers. Horsepower demonstrations highlight the continued relevance of draft animals in certain farming contexts, while precision‑agriculture stations exhibit variable‑rate technology and soil‑sensor networks. These hands‑on presentations allow farmers to assess performance and return on investment before committing to purchases.
Safety and Education Initiatives
Safety remains a core focus of the show. Dedicated demonstrations cover topics such as tractor rollover protection, proper handling of chemicals, and safe livestock handling techniques. The University of Wisconsin‑Madison Division of Extension often sets up a soil pit, inviting visitors to examine soil horizons and learn about soil health management. Youth programs, including the Tot Spot and educational games, aim to instill safe practices and an appreciation for agriculture from an early age. By integrating safety education with entertainment, FTD helps reduce on‑farm accidents and promotes a culture of vigilance.
Family‑Friendly Activities
Recognizing that many attendees come with children, FTD offers a variety of family‑oriented attractions. In addition to the Tot Spot, youngsters can enjoy blacksmith shows, interactive Plinko boards, and opportunities to pet or observe livestock such as beef animals and equine demonstrations. These activities not only keep families engaged while parents explore exhibits but also serve as informal outreach, sparking interest in agricultural careers among the next generation. The festive atmosphere, complete with ice cream stands on hot days, reinforces the event’s community‑oriented spirit.
Food and Amenities
Food service at FTD has undergone a noticeable shift. Formerly reliant on large volunteer‑run tents, the show now features a rotating lineup of food trucks that provide diverse menu options—from classic bratwurst and cheese curds to healthier fare and international cuisine. This change reduces the logistical burden on host farms and volunteers while offering visitors greater choice and quicker service. Amenities such as shaded seating areas, restroom facilities, and clear signage further enhance the attendee experience, ensuring that the focus remains on learning and networking.
Economic and Community Impact
The economic ripple effects of FTD extend well beyond the fairgrounds. Host communities experience increased patronage for local hotels, restaurants, and service providers during the event weekend. Vendors gain direct access to a concentrated audience of potential buyers, often resulting in immediate sales leads and longer‑term business relationships. Moreover, the show fosters networking among farmers, extension agents, researchers, and policymakers, facilitating knowledge exchange that can lead to adopted best practices and innovation adoption across the state.
Future Outlook: The 2026 Marathon County Event
Looking ahead, the 72nd Wisconsin Farm Technology Days scheduled for July 14‑16, 2026, at No Joke Dairy Farm in Marathon County promises to continue the show’s legacy of blending tradition with innovation. Organizers anticipate tens of thousands of visitors, building on the momentum of recent editions. Highlights will likely include the latest advancements in dairy technology, drone‑based field monitoring, and expanded safety workshops. As Wisconsin’s agricultural sector faces evolving challenges—climate variability, labor shortages, and market volatility—FTD remains a vital platform for showcasing solutions, fostering resilience, and celebrating the state’s rich farming heritage.