For the first time, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Seneca County and its 4-H Youth Program will team up with their Cayuga County counterparts for a joint 4-H County Youth Fair, taking place Thursday, July 31 through Saturday, August 2, 2025, at the Union Springs Fire Department grounds.
The public is invited to attend the event daily beginning at 9 a.m. at 257 Cayuga Street to explore a wide range of youth-led exhibits in animal and plant sciences, entomology, photography, home economics, and more. Hands-on activities and new attractions — including an Outdoor Skillathon — will also be part of the festivities.
“This large and multi-faceted event is coordinated by 4-H Program staff from both counties with extensive support from 4-H youth and their families, and other community volunteers,” said Rachel Williams, Seneca County 4-H Program Leader. “It’s an opportunity for 4-Hers to be evaluated and receive feedback on the projects they’ve worked on all year — and to share that work with their families, peers, and the public.”
The fair officially kicks off with private exhibit judging for youth participants on Tuesday, July 29, followed by three full public days of events in the 4-H Youth Fair Show Tent:
Thursday, July 31
- All day: 4-H Youth Projects on display
- 10:00 a.m.: Sheep herding exhibition
- 12:00 p.m.: 4-H Poultry Show & Dairy Judging Clinic
- 2:00 p.m.: Goat and Sheep Showmanship, Market Auction Show, Breed Show
Friday, August 1
- All day: 4-H Youth Projects on display
- 9:00 a.m.: Beef and Swine Showmanship, Market Auction Show, Breed Show
- 3:00 p.m.: Oxen Demonstration
- 4:00 p.m.: Dairy Showmanship
- 7:00 p.m.: All Animal Costume Show
Saturday, August 2
- All day: 4-H Youth Projects on display
- 9:30 a.m.: Dairy Breed Show
- 11:00 a.m.: Rabbit and Cavy Show
- 12:00–2:00 p.m.: Market Auction Buyer Registration
- 1:00 p.m.: Buyers’ Reception (registered buyers and exhibitors only)
- 1:30 p.m.: Political Leader’s Show
- 3:00 p.m.: 3rd Annual 4-H Market Livestock Auction
- 5:00 p.m.: Tentative release of animals and projects
Saturday’s Market Livestock Auction is open to all registered bidders and proxy bidders and offers attendees the opportunity to support local youth by purchasing responsibly raised livestock. The auction underscores 4-H’s commitment to developing entrepreneurial and agricultural skills in young people while promoting a sustainable, local food system.
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