July marks the heart of county fair season across the country. For many, it’s more than just an event; it’s a reunion, a tradition and a showcase of hard work and pride. The fairgrounds come alive with the hum of excited conversations, the rustle of show animals and the warmth of neighbors catching up. It’s a celebration of hard work, learning, tradition and above all, community.
Behind every successful fair is a team of dedicated individuals who give their time, energy and resources to make it happen. Livestock superintendents, 4-H leaders, FFA advisors, parents, grandparents, local organizations like the Lions Club and small town businesses all rally together for a shared purpose: to support our youth and showcase the best of agriculture.
Their commitment is truly inspiring. These individuals often work behind the scenes for months in advance organizing shows, securing sponsorships, planning schedules and preparing facilities. All to ensure that young people have a positive and meaningful experience. And during fair week? They’re the first to arrive in the morning and the last to leave at night. They do it not for recognition, but because they believe in the power of youth programs and the importance of keeping agricultural traditions alive.
I was fortunate enough to grow up in 4-H, a program that shaped much of who I am today. For those unfamiliar, 4-H is a youth development organization that engages young people in hands-on learning experiences, helping them reach their full potential. The four Hs stand for “Head, Heart, Hands and Health.” Values that guide members toward being thoughtful, hardworking and community-minded individuals.
Whether you’re part of 4-H, FFA or a junior breed association, showing livestock is an exceptional way to grow up. It teaches responsibility, patience, compassion and discipline. Learning to care for animals, feeding, grooming, walking and training them creates a sense of accountability and pride that few other experiences can replicate. The barn becomes a classroom, and every chore is a life lesson in disguise.
These experiences don’t just create strong individuals, they build strong communities. County fairs bring together people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s where grandparents cheer from the sidelines, younger siblings watch wide-eyed with anticipation and strangers become friends over a shared love of agriculture. Peewee exhibitors look up to older showmen, learning the ropes and dreaming of the day it will be their turn in the ring.
Early mornings spent in the barn, before the heat of the day sets in, become routine. Late nights exercising, rinsing and clipping livestock, under the fading light are part of the rhythm. Showmanship practices at home, in front yard, become moments of learning and bonding. And when show day finally arrives, there’s a mix of nerves, excitement and pride that fills the air.
Ribbons and banners are wonderful, but they aren’t the reason we do this. The true reward lies in the growth of the young people who step into that ring. The confidence gained from speaking to a judge. The grace shown in both victory and defeat. The teamwork built with peers. The quiet understanding that hard work, even when no one is watching, matters.
As county fair season kicks off across the country, let’s all take a moment to pause and reflect on what makes these events so special. Let’s remember to say thank you to the fair board members, Extension agents, volunteers, 4-H leaders, local sponsors, superintendents and ag teachers who pour their hearts into creating these opportunities. Their contributions may not always make headlines, but their impact is immeasurable.
Let’s also remember to be kind. Fair week can be stressful for exhibitors, parents and volunteers alike. Patience, understanding, and encouragement go a long way. A kind word can lift someone’s spirits. A helping hand can change the course of someone’s day. At the end of it all, we’re on the same team, working to create the best possible experience for our youth.
So here’s to all the families currently spending early mornings and late nights preparing for show day. To the last-minute touch-ups and the nervous smiles before entering the ring. Here’s to the lifelong friendships formed in dusty barns and on sun-soaked show days. Here’s to county fair season where community, hard work and heart come together in the best way possible. — TY GROSHANS
