Kansas State Fair displays 4-H projects of all kinds

By Madeline Drake
K-State Extension news service

MANHATTAN, Kan. — With September around the corner, Kansas 4-H youth are gearing up to showcase their hard work, dedication and talents at one of the most anticipated events in the state, the Kansas State Fair.

Kansas 4-H program leader Sarah Maass described the projects and events to catch in Hutchinson Sept. 5-14. 4-H Clover

“We've got the livestock shows that will take place that first full weekend of the fair which includes, beef, sheep, swine and goats, and we will also have the dairy cattle show on Monday,” Maass said.

“Along with livestock we also have two buildings on the fairgrounds – the 4-H Centennial Hall and 4-H Showcase -- in which we have static exhibits,” Maass said. “In those buildings you can find a variety of projects from entomology to geology, engineering and technology related projects, rocketry, plant science, vegetables and crops, and so much more.”

Making its second appearance at the fair is the brand-new project, Veterinary Science, in which youth have the opportunity to learn about animal health and create an educational display.

“Food and Nutrition is one of the most popular projects we have,” Maass said. “That is one of our project areas where unfortunately we just don't have enough space to be able to display everything.”

“So when folks come to the fair and don’t find the exhibit they were looking for, we do have the opportunity for people to come up to the information desk and be able to look up how their child or grandchild or friend did and see what color of ribbon they received or award they received for that exhibit,” Maass said.

Another crowd favorite is Legislative Showmanship, in which Kansas legislators learn from a 4-H member how to show a market steer. This event allows youth to connect one-on-one with their lawmakers and share with them what they are passionate about.

Maass encourages those inspired by exhibits at the State Fair to learn more about 4-H.

“The information booth in 4-H Centennial Hall is where we can point you to your local extension office and who your extension agents would be that you could contact,” Maass said.

She added that September is the perfect time to visit 4-H clubs to find the right fit for your family.

“Our 4-H year is going to start October 1 and that's when enrollment will open for people to be able to join or rejoin,” she said.

For more information regarding the Kansas State Fair, visit https://www.kansasstatefair.com/.

For more information on 4-H, visit https://www.kansas4-h.org/.