10 Corn-Themed Gifts Farmers Will Love

Tara Desmond
December 5, 2025

(2025 Edition — celebrating corn, community, and Illinois agriculture)

Every December, as the last loads of grain for the year make their way down the road, Illinois farmers begin a different kind of harvest—the gathering of thoughtful gifts for neighbors, family, and friends. And around here, nothing says “I see you, I appreciate you, and I know exactly what your life is like” quite like a gift rooted in the world we share: the world of corn.


This year’s roundup features old favorites and new finds:

  1. Award-Winning Corn Whiskey or Vodka
    From
    Whiskey Acres to Star Union Spirits—raise a glass to the harvest and the craftsmanship behind every kernel.
  2. Give the Gift of Cover Crop or Milkweed Seeds
    Gift a bag of cover-crop or milkweed seed — it’s a way to invest in soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat: cover crops improve soil structure, reduce erosion, boost water retention, suppress weeds and recycle nutrients.
  3. Corn-Based Cups
    Yes, cups can be made from corn plastic! Purchase for your next big event.
  4. A Year of IL Corn Membership
    Gift real advocacy: having a louder voice in Springfield and D.C. is always in season.
  5. Corn & Wheat Cat Litter (Farmer-Tested, Cat-Approved and 35% off with this link)
    Lightweight, biodegradable, and shipped to the door—perfect for farm cats with high standards.
  6. An Aerterra Corn-Based Furnace Filter - 30% off to ICGA Members
    Keep the house warm with a filter made from the crop Illinois grows best. Practical and proudly corn-powered.
  7. Corn-Made Home Goods (Like this corn plastic Cat Lamp!)
    This adorable RGB cat lamp is made from corn-based plastic and adds whimsy to any home.
  8. Support Local: Meat, Milk, Body Care, Holiday Boxes & More
    From
    Mariah’s Mums flowers + farm goods, to Illinois Product Holiday Boxes full of home-grown treats—Illinois farmers always give the best gifts.
  9. Magic Corn Kernels Toy for Kids
    Made from biodegradable corn starch, safe for kids, and sticks with just water—no glue needed. Includes 500 colorful pieces for endless 3D creations.
  10.  Buy Local Beef
    Buying local beef keeps your dollars in farm communities, supports Illinois farm families directly, and gives you fresher, higher-quality meat raised by neighbors you trust.


collin and jared
By Brownfield & Tara • October 29, 2026
Illinois FFA State VP Collin Johnson shares how the IL Corn checkoff partnership builds the next generation of ag advocates.
Sharon Chung, Gracie Pierson, and Rod Weinzierl
By Lyndi Allen • October 29, 2026
IL Corn Growers Association (ICGA) connected with lawmakers and candidates this month through farm visits, renewable fuel events and bioeconomy investments.
sky
By Aerterra and Tara Desmond • October 29, 2026
Illinois ranks 48th for air quality but indoor air is often worse. See how corn-based ethanol and PLA air filters help Illinois breathe easier.
picture of corn at harvest
By Tara Desmond • October 29, 2026
6 Illinois farmers share memories during harvest
Rep. Eric Sorensen hosting an E15 press event with IL Corn and Illinois Farm Bureau
By Lyndi Allen • October 29, 2026
Illinois drivers face higher gas prices than the national average. Learn how ethanol and year-round E15 access could lower costs, support farmers, and boost demand for Illinois corn.
American flag draped over tall green corn plants under a cloudy sky
By Lyndi Allen • October 29, 2026
The November 2026 election could signal significant changes in the future policy decisions governing the Farm Bill, agricultural trade, conservation programs, infrastructure, and state regulations.
Show More