As FFA chapters begin to prepare for this year’s National FFA Week, it will not look like the years past. Designated as a national week in 1947, the week of George Washington’s birthday, National FFA Week runs from Saturday to Saturday. This year, FFA members and the organization will celebrate National FFA Week from February 20 to 27, 2021. During this week, FFA members organize activities that raise awareness not only about the National FFA Organization, but also the role agriculture plays in students’ lives.
In the past, FFA members have been able to plan and coordinate however they wanted and to celebrate in any way they saw fit. However, with new restrictions due to the pandemic, FFA members and their advisors will have to think outside the box — just like they have done for the past year given the difficult circumstances. The National FFA Organization has great resources to help members and advisors during this time. Everything from an activity calendar poster, ideas, and a National Days of Service toolkit can be found on their website.
In addition to those resources, we have gathered more ideas for FFA Chapters. Everything from socially distanced fun to spirit week activities, check out the list below.
Socially distanced activities include:
- Pack the truck/ trailer drive — This activity is a great way to help out your surrounding community while coming together as an organization. This is also an easy way to stay somewhat socially distanced.
- Virtual scavenger hunt — While most scavenger hunts are held in person, there are still plenty of ways to adapt it to a socially distanced activity. You could hide FFA emblems around the school with ag facts on the back. When brought to the FFA classroom, that student gets a reward. If you are online, you can incorporate it into your classes. Have students put it in the lower screen. The first student to email the FFA advisor receives a gift.
- Use social media to get other students involved — Virtual activities can always be taken to the next level with social media interactions. Use the chapter’s channels and encourage students to get involved as well.
- Egg toss — Hear me out, tossing eggs at 6 foot is socially distanced, right? It is a fun game to play while also staying safe.
- Kiss an animal — This is a fun way to connect the whole student body. Either virtually or in person, set up a way students can vote (virtually) or add coins in a bucket to a willing teacher or staff member. The one with the the most votes, must kiss an animal — whether that be the FFA goat, pig, or cow. If you are virtual, record it for the student body to see.
- Virtual movie night — Movie nights are always a classic. If you are virtual you could send out a packet of popcorn and an invitation to watch a movie. For example, Temple Grandin is a classic while also very informative.
- Thank you notes for administration — It is always nice to take this time to appreciate those who do so much for the FFA organization on the administrative side.
- Drive-through breakfast/dinner — For many chapters, it is common to host a “thank you” breakfast or dinner. While that might not be possible, try a drive-thru!
- Virtual Spirit Days — If you are online only, still urge students to participate and post to their social media with their FFA pride — whether it be the blue and gold day, dress like their advisor or flannel Friday.
Not an active FFA member? There are still ways you can help celebrate National FFA Week. In addition to the activities organized by the students, the National FFA Organization is sponsoring an event for the whole FFA community. For 24 hours on Thursday, Feb. 25, the National FFA Organization will celebrate the spirit of giving in FFA with an online pep rally. Visit the Give FFA website for the live countdown and online toolkit to get ready now.
While there are more restrictions this year, there is still fun to be had, no matter what your situation.