Farm Aid 2026 went ahead in Virginia Beach despite a Nor’easter disrupting major events elsewhere in the New York region. The 41st annual benefit, founded by Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp and Neil Young, highlighted the pressures facing American farmers, including rising fuel and fertiliser costs, immigration raids, land disputes, extreme weather and climate inaction.

The festival has raised $90 million since 1985 to support resilient family farming. Its programme featured established and emerging artists, while the Wisdom Indian Dancers opened proceedings; notable performances included Steve Earle, Grace Meola, Amythyst Kiah and I’m With Her, whose sets combined musical performances with messages supporting farmers and agricultural workers.