Neil Young and Willie Nelson are set to headline the 40th anniversary of Farm Aid, scheduled for September 20, 2025, at Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. This marks the first time the benefit concert will be held in Minnesota, a state with a rich agricultural history and a strong tradition of supporting family farmers.
Founded in 1985 by Nelson, Young, and John Mellencamp, Farm Aid was inspired by a comment from Minnesota native Bob Dylan during the Live Aid concert, highlighting the struggles of American farmers. Since its inception, the organization has raised over $85 million to support family farms across the United States.
The 40th-anniversary lineup features an impressive roster of artists, including Farm Aid board members Nelson, Young (performing with the Chrome Hearts), Mellencamp, Dave Matthews (with Tim Reynolds), and Margo Price. Additional performers include Billy Strings, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Trampled by Turtles, Waxahatchee, Eric Burton of Black Pumas, Jesse Welles, and Madeline Edwards, with more artists to be announced.
Farm Aid 40 promises a full day of music, family farmers, homegrown food, and agricultural experiences. Attendees can enjoy HOMEGROWN Concessions®, offering local and organic foods sourced from family farms, and explore the HOMEGROWN Village, featuring interactive exhibits on soil, water, energy, food, and farming.
Willie Nelson emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “Family farmers are the heart of this country, and we depend on each other for good food and strong communities. For 40 years, Farm Aid and our partners have stood with farmers, supporting them to stay on their land even when corporate power, bad policies, and broken promises make it harder to keep going.”
The choice of Minneapolis as the venue underscores Minnesota’s pivotal role in the farm movement. Jennifer Fahy, Farm Aid’s co-executive director, noted, “We’re really excited to be here for the first time.”
Tickets for Farm Aid 40 go on sale to the general public on Friday, May 16, at 10 a.m. CDT, with prices ranging from $101 to $390, excluding sales tax. A limited number of presale tickets will be available starting Wednesday, May 14, at 10 a.m. CDT. Tickets can be purchased through the official Farm Aid website.
Beyond the concert, Farm Aid continues its mission year-round, providing grants, running a farmer hotline, offering emergency relief, and advocating for sustainable agriculture policies. The organization remains a vital support system for family farmers facing economic and environmental challenges.
As Farm Aid celebrates four decades of music and advocacy, the 2025 festival in Minneapolis stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of family farmers and the artists who champion their cause.
