By Blake Jackson
The Common Grain Alliance has unveiled plans for its signature event, the 2026 Mid-Atlantic Grain Fair & Conference, scheduled for March 15-16, 2026, at two Pennsylvania venues.
The annual gathering connects farmers, millers, maltsters, bakers, brewers, distillers, food entrepreneurs, educators, and consumers for two days of education, networking, and celebration centered on the region’s grain economy.
The event begins March 15 with the free, family-friendly Mid-Atlantic Grain Fair at the Rodale Institute in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. Designed to be interactive and welcoming to all ages, the fair features live demonstrations, hands-on activities, and opportunities to meet grain growers and artisans.
The goal is to introduce attendees to regenerative agriculture, regional grain production, and the people strengthening Mid-Atlantic food systems.
On March 16, the main conference will take place at The Conference Center and Penn State Great Valley. Sessions will cover the entire grain value chain, from soil health and seed selection to milling, baking, brewing, distilling, and market development.
To make the event accessible to families and small business owners, organizers will offer a supervised children’s program for ages 6-12 featuring grain-themed crafts and activities.
Educational programming is organized into five tracks: regenerative and organic grain farming; grain processing and quality; baking and food craft; malting, brewing, and distilling; and markets and regional food systems. Presentations will highlight practical strategies, case studies, and research aimed at improving farm viability and expanding local grain markets.
The keynote address will be delivered by Klaas Martens of Lakeview Organic Grain, Martens will discuss how soil health and crop management influence grain quality and resilience.
The conference concludes with a Grain-to-Glass Tasting, including a special collaboration ale brewed by Stick City Brewing Company using malt from regional suppliers. Registration details are available on the conference website.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham
Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops