4 H youth prepare to showcase a year of learning As county fair season approaches, excitement is building across the region. For many fair goers, the exhibits are the heart of the experience— rows of visual arts, baked goods, educational displays, horticulture, floriculture, field crops, photography, and an impressive lineup of livestock projects plus so much more! While much of this work is created by local 4 H youth, many categories are also open to the general public, making the fair a true community celebration of talent and dedication.
4 H, the youth development program of the Cooperative Extension System and USDA, has deep roots in Kansas. What began in 1905 as “corn clubs” evolved into the national 4 H program following the 1914 Smith Lever Act. Kansas has played a notable role in that history: the official 4 H pledge was written by Kansan Otis Hall in the 1920s, and Rock Springs Ranch in Geary County was purchased by Kansas 4 H Clubs to serve as the state’s 4 H center. Today, more than 80,000 Kansas youth participate in 4 H programs, and for many of them, the county fair is the highlight of their year.
Enrollment for 4 H begins each October, when youth select the projects they want to pursue. Over the months that follow, they attend workshops, clinics, club meetings, and project meetings led by dedicated volunteers. They research, practice, and refine their skills—whether that means learning proper livestock care, experimenting with photography techniques, or developing an educational display. By May 1, the statewide deadline for adding or dropping projects, members have a clear sense of where they want to focus their efforts.
From spring to fair time, 4 Hers put the finishing touches on their exhibits. Livestock exhibitors monitor feed rations and animal health to ensure their animals are show ready. Photographers sort through months of images, evaluating composition, lighting, and technical quality. Each project is entered into a specific 4 H division at the fair, where trained judges evaluate exhibits – many of which are conducted through consultation judging. 4-Hers are then awarded ribbons illustrating their skill level with their project. These exhibits, along with their ribbons, are then displayed for the public to view and enjoy.
The county fair also represents the final stage of the 4 H Experiential Learning Model—a five step process in which youth experience, share, process, generalize, and apply what they’ve learned. Throughout the journey, they are supported by families, club leaders, project leaders, volunteers, and their local Extension staff. The result is not just a completed project, but meaningful growth in confidence, responsibility, and leadership.
For some exhibitors, the fair brings an added thrill: the chance to qualify for the Kansas State Fair in September. For all participants, it marks the culmination of a year of hands on learning and personal development.
As fair season begins, the community is invited to come see the creativity, hard work, and promise of the next generation. The exhibits tell a story—not just of projects completed, but of future leaders in the making through K State Extension 4 H Youth Development.
Look for my next article, where I’ll answer a common question: “If I’m not in 4 H, can I participate in the County Fair?”