Youth demonstrate skills through 4-H shows at DuPage County Fair

For scores of DuPage County youth, 4-H project exhibits and animal shows are an important and fun part of the DuPage County Fair, which will be July 29-31.

"Throughout the year, our 4-H members learn new things and develop skills, which they then demonstrate through 4-H projects and shows each summer," said Nancy Reppe, 4-H Youth Development Program coordinator. "We are excited to be part of the 2022 DuPage County Fair, and we hope you will join us fair weekend to celebrate the hard work of local youth and learn a little more about our local 4-H youth development program."

These projects are judged on Thursday, July 28, and open for viewing during the three-day fair in Building No. 1.

Through the 4-H conference judging process, youth gain valuable presentation experience and feedback from local adult volunteers to help them continue growing and learning in a project area.

Projects on display include: photography, woodworking, aerospace, natural resources, robotics, cooking, a wide variety of creative arts, and more.

On Saturday, July 29, 4-H will host animal shows, including rabbits at 8 a.m., goats and sheep starting at 4 p.m., and the new 4-H animal costume contest at 7 p.m.

Earlier this summer, DuPage 4-H youth also participated in dog and horse shows.

Throughout the fair, you also can discover 4-H through displays, 4-H member talks and demonstrations, and community service stations.

See the work of 4-H youth making colorful paper flowers that will be donated to the three assisted living centers near the fairgrounds, and 4-H youth also will assemble snack kits and greeting card creations to benefit local DuPage PADS homeless services.

"4-H programs and experiences strive to help youth gain a sense of belonging, develop independence, give back to their communities, and master skills," Reppe said. "The annual 4-H shows at the fair bring it all together as we celebrate the completion of this 4-H year and look ahead to a new 4-H year in the fall."

Learn more about 4-H in DuPage County at go.illinois.edu/info4Hdkk. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact the event coordinator or email uie-dkk@illinois.edu or call (630) 955-1123.

Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access needs.

The 2022 DuPage County Fair also will feature a variety of entertainment options and activities.

For more information on location, tickets or event schedules, visit www.dupagecountyfair.org.

The fairgrounds is located at 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton.