After more than 200 years in print, the Farmers’ Almanac will release its final edition in 2026.
The Maine-based publication — well known for its long term weather predictions, detailing moon phases, and offering other outdoorsy tips — confirmed the end of its centuries-long run on Thursday. The decision was made due to the increasing financial challenges of producing and distributing the Almanac in a predominantly digital media environment, the company said in a news release.
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Access to the online version will also cease next month.
“The Almanac has been published each and every year since 1818 — even when the editor (Ray Geiger) was overseas serving in World War II. And we also recognize that it’s more than just a book — it’s a way of life — a tradition — a resource for so many people for so many years,” editor Sandi Duncan said in an email to TODAY.com,
“However, readers now access information and answers differently, and the trajectory of newsstand sales made this decision necessary,” she added.
As of 2017, the almanac boasted a circulation of 2.1 million and appeared to be growing, but readership has tapered off in the years since.
Editions of the Old Farmer’s Almanac. (Jim Cole/AP)
“We are incredibly proud of the legacy we leave behind and grateful to our loyal staff, readers, contributors, and partners who have supported us through the years,” Duncan said. “Though the Almanac will no longer be available in print or online, its spirit will live on in the values it championed: simplicity, sustainability, and connection to nature.”
In response to the news, the more widely known Old Farmer’s Almanac issued a statement clarifying it is a different publication and will continue to be printed in the future.
“Over the years, there has been some confusion between different almanacs, so to be clear: The OLD Farmer’s Almanac isn’t going anywhere,” it said. “As we have since 1792, during George Washington’s presidency, we will continue to publish our annual edition, while educating and entertaining readers online at Almanac.com.”
With News Wire Services
