Songs of Solidarity: The 1985 Farm Aid Concert Exhibit Opening
- Event Date: Sunday, September 21, 2025
- Time: 2:00 pm–4:00 pm (CDT)
- Location: Spurlock Museum, 600 S. Gregory St., Urbana, IL
- Age: All ages
- Cost: Free
Join us for the opening of an exhibit celebrating Farm Aid with remarks from curator Dan Gilbert (History; Labor and Employment Relations), live music from New Souls, light refreshments featuring local produce, and more.
On September 22, 1985, 80,000 fans packed Memorial Stadium for a 14-hour show that was broadcast to a nationwide television audience. Star performers from country and rock music focused a powerful spotlight on deepening crisis conditions for American farmers. Led by country music superstar Willie Nelson, concert organizers sought to raise money and consciousness in solidarity with the growing outcry from families across America who were losing their livelihoods.
That first concert gave birth to the Farm Aid organization, which continues to support grassroots efforts for sustainability and justice in American agriculture. Farm Aid’s model of partnership between musical artists and grassroots organizations stands as a unique model of the songs of solidarity.
This exhibit was developed in collaboration with the Champaign County History Museum.
Image courtesy of Jack Brighton.
The Spurlock Museum acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council.
Contact
For further information on this event, contact Nicole Frydman at nfrydman@illinois.edu (email link).
All are welcome. To request disability-related accommodations for this event, please contact Brian Cudiamat at cudiamat@illinois.edu (email link) or (217) 244-5586.