The Farmers’ Almanac, founded in Lewiston, Maine back in 1818, will be ceasing after more than 200 years, as reported by Today. The 2026 edition will be the outlet's last and access to the website content will end in December.
To be clear: the similarly named Old Farmer’s Almanac—which we quote from regularly when reporting on weather trends—is still quite healthy and in business. Feeling confused? You are not the only one: the Old Farmer's Almanac, with a trademark light yellow cover and florid elements bordering the title, actually had to release a statement assuring fans of its continued publication.
"Over the years, there has been some confusion between different almanacs, so to be clear: The OLD Farmer’s Almanac isn’t going anywhere," reads the statement. "As we have since 1792, during George Washington’s presidency, we will continue to publish our annual edition, while educating and entertaining readers online."
The newer Farmers’ Almanac is closing down due to financial troubles in an era that no longer supports this kind of publishing, according to editor Sandi Duncan. She told Today that the “decision was very hard to make. 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."
Duncan went on to note that, “Readers now access information and answers differently, and the trajectory of newsstand sales made this decision necessary. The financial challenges of producing and distributing the Almanac in today’s chaotic media environment unfortunately lead to this decision."
The editor isn't wrong. Back in the 19th century, when both almanacs first launched, most Americans lived on a farm. The publications helped farmers understand upcoming weather patterns and plan their crops and animals' schedules accordingly.
And, so, for the last time ever, we're delighted to detail the Farmers’ Almanac winter season forecast, which is expected to be a “wild ride” with dramatic swings and the early arrival of cold weather.
“The season’s coldest temperatures will be found from the Northern Plains to New England,” reads the forecast. “Readers in the Northwest should also prepare for a cold winter, especially in Idaho and Washington. A significant cold snap in mid-January will keep most shivering. Winter’s wrath continues with another pronounced cold spell predicted for mid-February.”
By region: New England will be cold and snow filled; the Atlantic coast will see lots of rain, mixing with snow here and there; the mid-Atlantic region will see snow, especially in the mountains; a beautiful, traditional snowy winter will be on display in the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley and North Central states; impressive levels of snow will fall in the Pacific Northwest mountains; the Southeast will see average temps with lots of rain; Appalachia may see some occasional snow; Texas and the Southern Plains (defined by the almanac as western Kansas, Oklahoma, and portions of Nebraska and New Mexico) will experience a wetter-than-average winter with some periods of intense cold rain and freezing precipitation; the Southwest will see a wet winter with traditional temperatures.
If you want to buy a physical copy of the final edition of the Farmers' Almanac, click here. It's a deal at only $4.79.