Registration Open Now for Michigan State University Extension 2026 Agritourism Summit

March 17, 2026 Dianna Stampfler

TRAVERSE CITY — Michigan State University Extension has announced details for its 2026 Agritourism Summit. This year’s theme—Cultivating Opportunities Through Collaboration, Innovation and Policy—reflects a commitment to supporting vibrant, resilient agritourism across Michigan. The Summit brings together farmers, entrepreneurs, municipal officials, and rural advocates to explore emerging trends, share best practices, and build meaningful connections that strengthen our state’s rural economy. Networking will also be encouraged as the purpose is to cultivate a community that encourages economic growth through the preservation of local agriculture.

The Agritourism Summit will be held at the Grand Traverse Resort in Acme on Wednesday, May 14 from 9:30am-4:30pm. Preceding the event on Tuesday, May 13 will be the Pre-Summit Farm Tour at multiple Agritourism establishments across Antrim and Grand Traverse Counties, from 9am-4pm, followed by a Welcome Soirée at Flintfields Horse Park.

Pre-Summit Farm Tour & Soirée – Tuesday, May 13

Join us for a one-of-a-kind, full-day immersion into Antrim County agritourism (Space is limited to 54 participants).

The curated Pre‑Summit Farm Tour (9:00 a.m.–7:45 p.m.) includes behind‑the‑scenes experiences and tastings at:

King Orchards Home Farm
Cellar 1914
Ethanology Distillery & Spirit House
Providence Organic Farm Market & Café
Short’s Brewing – Elk Rapids Pull Barn
Flintfields Horse Park (final stop & Soirée venue)

Tour registration includes round‑trip transportation from Grand Traverse Resort, lunch at Providence Organic Farm, locally crafted food and beverage samples, and entry to the evening Soirée.

The Soirée & Networking Event (5:00–7:45 p.m.) at Flintfields Horse Park features locally sourced food and beverages with a menu cultivated by award-winning James Beard Best Chef Midwest Jimmy Schmidt, two complimentary drink tickets, live equestrian jumper demonstrations, an agritourism expo, and opportunities to connect with industry leaders.

Agritourism Summit – May 14 (9:30am – 4:30pm)

Held in the Tower Ballroom at Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, the Summit includes:

Welcome address from Ben LaCross, President, Michigan Farm Bureau
Keynote from Dr. Tim Boring, Director, Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development
Panel discussions with Michigan agritourism operators
Morning and afternoon breakout sessions covering marketing, finance, farm stays, zoning/ordinance strategy, Michigan Right to Farm Act basics, and realistic agritourism scenarios
Coffee, locally sourced lunch, and refreshments included

Full Agenda & Speakers: 2026 Agritourism Summit Agenda

Registration Options & Pricing:

Program	Dates	Early Bird (until April 1)	Regular (after April 1)
Full Program: Farm Tour + Soirée + Summit	May 13–14	$225	$250
Agritourism Summit Only	May 14	$100	$125
Pre‑Summit Farm Tour + Soirée	May 13	$135	$150
Agritourism Summit + Soirée	May 13–14	$165	$175

Current partners and sponsors include:

Chateau Chantal
Clearesult
Michigan State University Extension
National Cherry Festival
Promote Michigan
Taste the Local Difference
Traverse City Tourism
Venture North Funding
Yen Yoga

Businesses and organizations interested in partnerships and/or sponsorships can email berkeyj@msu.edu or visit the Summit’s Sponsorship Page.

Agritourism encompasses entertainment and leisure experiences that contribute to a healthy lifestyle, strong family values and quality of life. Agritourism also focuses on finding the best route to encourage rural and regional economic development while preserving the landscape of each location. Agritourism cultivates strong local communities by connecting the tradition and heritage of area’s inhabitants with the best options for economic growth.