Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of the NY State of Cider campaign, a statewide agricultural tourism initiative developed in partnership with the New York Cider Association and Airbnb. The program aims to boost local orchards, cider makers, and rural economies by connecting travelers directly with New York’s hard cider regions through a dedicated digital destination guide.
New Partnership and Digital Destination Guide
As part of the campaign, the New York Cider Association collaborated with Airbnb to create an online destination guide highlighting distinct cider regions across the state. According to Airbnb data cited by the state, 86 percent of travelers express interest in visiting rural communities, and nearly two-thirds of guests travel within 300 miles of home. The new digital landing page pairs local accommodations with nearby cideries, orchards, restaurants, bottle shops, and outdoor recreation areas.
“Let’s raise a glass and toast New York’s cider producers,” Governor Hochul said in the announcement. “Our world-class apple growers, innovative cider makers, and vibrant rural communities have made New York a leader in hard cider production.”
Economic Impact of New York Cider
New York ranks as the country’s leading hard cider producer with more active cideries than any other state, alongside being the second-largest apple producer in the nation. The state’s cider and apple industries generate an annual economic impact exceeding $1.8 billion. State officials emphasize that working orchards help preserve agricultural land, sustain thousands of rural jobs, and drive hospitality revenue.
“New York hard cider begins in our orchards and reflects generations of agricultural excellence,” New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said. “Every visit to a cidery supports our growers, strengthens local food systems, and helps preserve the working landscapes that define our state.”
Regulatory and State Support
The campaign fulfills a commitment outlined in Governor Hochul’s 2026 State of the State address, focusing on the expansion of agricultural tourism. State Liquor Authority Chair Lily Fan noted that the initiative will showcase the region’s craftsmanship to visitors from across the country.
“The SLA is proud to support Governor Kathy Hochul’s initiative to promote our state’s incredible cider producers, help grow local businesses, and strengthen New York’s economy,” Fan said.
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