The county fair often serves as the official sign of summer for many families. The smell of funnel cakes and the sight of carnival rides are tell-tale signs that summer and fun is upon us. However, the county fair is also an opportunity for 4-H members to showcase the projects that they’ve been working on. While these projects range from bunnies and dairy cows to ceramics and baked goods, each item reflects a youth’s unique talents, interests and commitment to learning.
What is 4-H?
4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization that helps young people build leadership, responsibility and life skills through hands-on projects. 4-H members can explore everything from animal science and STEM to foods, photography and community service.
The county fair allows youth to exhibit their work, connect with peers and engage with the public. While fair visitors might see ribbons and displays, what they’re really seeing is a year’s worth of effort and growth.
How Kids Prepare for the County Fair
For many, planning for the next county fair starts as soon as the last one wraps up. Preparation to be “show ring ready” goes beyond the week of the show. I have shown dairy heifers at my local county fair for the past 11 years. Together, it’s my sister’s and my responsibility to feed, bathe and walk our project animals daily. We also work with various agriculture experts to provide care for our animals, including a veterinarian, a nutritionist and a hoof trimmer. Not only do we ensure our animals receive high-quality care, but we also gain valuable knowledge and build lasting relationships with experts in the field.
Showing Animals at the County Fair
During the county fair, the responsibility of caring for their animal doesn’t stop for youth exhibitors. They continue their regular chores—feeding, washing and caring for their animal—just as they would at home. Then comes the exciting part: show day! This is when members proudly present their animals to be judged and earn a placing based on the animal’s quality. Show day represents all that the youth have been working towards! It’s a day filled with pride and excitement, for many a highlight of their summer.
For my sisters and me, caring for our dairy heifers requires a major commitment. But the life lessons and practical knowledge we gain along the way make the experience well worth it. While the daily care of a dairy calf, beef steer or pig may look different, the root of each exhibitor’s goals remains the same. With every practice walk and bath, youth are working to achieve their goals and expand their skills.
The Benefits of 4-H
However, for many of the youth, it’s not the ribbons and trophies that keep them returning year after year, it’s the memories. County fair week is filled with a special sort of magic for these youth members. They have the unique opportunity to connect with and meet their peers that might be interested in or passionate about the same project as themselves. 4-H members often form new friendships over their shared passions.
There are endless opportunities for families to savor the summer and experience local agriculture at one of Wisconsin’s 70 county fairs. As you stroll through the barns at your local fair this summer, take a moment to talk with a youth exhibitor. The projects beside them often represent years of dedication and learning.