“Drive your tractor to work day” marks the unofficial start to farming season

With the sun trying to break through the clouds and light winds bringing a brisk atmosphere, dozens and dozens of tractors made their way through downtown Palmer for the 6th annual “Drive Your Tractor to Work Day.” The popular event marks the start of farming season for Alaskan farmers.

The parade kicked off at the Alaska State Fairgrounds, with Event creator Arthur Keyes leading the way. Tractors could be seen winding their way through Palmer before finishing at the Palmer Pavilion. Viewers of all ages lined the streets to watch tractors of different makes and models, some new, some vintage give a wave as they passed by. Kids excitedly waved at the drivers, while some sat atop parents’ shoulders to get a better view.

“Wow,” one child was overheard saying as he clapped and waved to a happy tractor driver.

At the end of the route, families were able to enjoy a special Alaska Grown breakfast, check out this year’s swag of hoodies and hats, and mingle with the tractor drivers and farmers.

“Drive Your Tractor to Work Day” began 6 years ago as a way to celebrate local farmers and the hard work they do providing fresh, locally sourced food.

While some people came out to watch the tractors in action, there were also people there supporting the farmland and the agricultural way of life.

The event was sponsored by Alaska Farmland Trust and Glacier Valley Farm, the City of Palmer, Country Financial, and Matanuska Electric Association.

The Alaska Farmland Trust began in 2005 and has worked to protect over 370 acres of agriculture land to be dedicated as farmland.