14th Annual Black Farmers and Urban Gardeners National Conference

The 14th Annual Black Farmers and Urban Gardeners (BUGs) National Conference comes to Dillard University in New Orleans October 23–25, 2026, under the theme “Soil as Sanctuary: Cultivating Culture, Community & Change.” The annual gathering brings together Black farmers, urban growers, gardeners, food-system advocates, educators, organizers, and community members to share knowledge, strengthen relationships, and explore the many ways growing food can nurture healthy communities.

The conference offers opportunities to learn, connect, and celebrate through farm tours, workshops, keynote conversations, social gatherings, and regional organizing. Across the weekend, participants can engage with ideas and practices surrounding food, land, agriculture, culture, and community while building connections with others working to shape more sustainable and equitable food systems.

Hosted in New Orleans, the 2026 BUGs National Conference invites participants to consider the soil as a place of nourishment, cultural connection, and possibility. Whether you are a farmer, gardener, organizer, educator, or simply interested in the future of food and community, the gathering offers space to learn, share, and grow together.