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Farmers' Almanac to publish final edition after more than 200 years

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, November 8th 2025 at 22:38 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
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Farmers Almanac’s 208‑Year Legacy Concludes with 2026 Final Edition

For over two centuries the Farmers Almanac has been a staple on kitchen tables, farmers’ workshops, and the shelves of bookstores across the globe. Its final edition, scheduled for release in 2026, marks the end of an era that began in 1818 and has spanned 208 years of weather forecasts, crop predictions, moon‑phase charts, and a trusted guide for generations of growers and hobbyists.

A Storied History

The first Farmers Almanac was printed by John C. G. Mason in the United Kingdom, and its format quickly spread to the United States, where it became a mainstay of agricultural and weather‑related information. The Almanac’s annual publications were valued for their long‑range weather forecasts, often extending predictions up to a decade in advance—an impressive feat given the limited meteorological data of the time. Over the decades, the Almanac expanded its offerings to include commodity prices, historical events, and lifestyle sections, all while maintaining its core focus on farming and rural life.

The 2026 edition will be the 209th volume in a lineage that has seen both the rise of the printing press and the digital age. In an era when most people turn to smartphones for real‑time weather updates, the Almanac’s traditional long‑term outlooks offer a unique, analog perspective that many readers still find valuable.

Why the End?

The decision to cease publication comes after careful consideration of evolving market dynamics. According to a statement released by the company’s parent organization, Farmers Almanac Ltd., the print edition has experienced a sustained decline in sales over the past decade. Shifts in consumer behavior, increased competition from free online weather services, and higher production costs have made the traditional print model financially unsustainable.

“We’re seeing a generation that prefers the immediacy of digital data, and the costs associated with maintaining a high‑quality print product no longer justify the returns,” explained a spokesperson. “While we will continue to offer the Almanac’s core content online, we will no longer produce the physical book.”

The announcement was accompanied by an apology to loyal readers, many of whom have purchased the Almanac for decades. The company has pledged to preserve the legacy by offering digital archives and a new “Farmers Almanac Online” subscription that will feature interactive charts, real‑time updates, and community forums.

Digital Transition and Future Plans

The Farmers Almanac’s official website—[ farmersalmanac.com ]—has already begun rolling out a new digital platform. Users can now access weather forecasts, crop advisories, and moon‑phase charts directly from their devices. The site also offers a subscription model that promises more frequent updates and the ability to customize alerts based on location and crop type.

“While the physical book will end, the essence of the Almanac lives on,” the website’s message reads. “Our digital platform will continue to deliver the trusted insights that farmers, gardeners, and curious readers rely on.”

The website also houses an archive of past editions, giving researchers and enthusiasts access to a treasure trove of historical data. Users can view old charts, compare long‑term forecasts with actual outcomes, and study how agricultural predictions have evolved.

Broader Implications for Print Publishing

The closure of the Farmers Almanac underscores a larger trend affecting print publications worldwide. Many long‑standing periodicals—ranging from niche hobby magazines to national newspapers—are shifting toward digital-first strategies. The challenge remains to balance the nostalgic appeal of physical books with the practicality and accessibility of online content.

In the case of the Farmers Almanac, the company’s pivot mirrors similar moves by other traditional brands. For instance, the National Almanac and The Old Farmer’s Almanac (distinct from the U.S. publication of the same name) have both adapted by offering e‑books and online subscriptions. While the physical presence of these titles will fade, their digital footprints will likely grow as consumer preferences continue to shift.

A Legacy to Remember

For many, the Almanac’s pages have been more than just weather forecasts—they’ve been a window into the rhythms of the seasons, a record of local history, and a source of comfort during uncertain times. The 2026 edition promises to capture the final chapter of this unique narrative, preserving the format that has seen the rise and fall of empires, the transition from horse‑drawn carts to electric tractors, and the enduring human relationship with the earth.

While the printed volumes will soon be a relic of the past, the Almanac’s data, insights, and spirit will continue to thrive in the digital realm. Readers can look forward to a future where the Almanac’s legacy is accessible from a phone or computer, ensuring that the knowledge it has imparted over two centuries remains relevant for generations to come.