The deadline to enroll in 4-H for the 2026 fair season has come and gone, which means 4-H members across Buffalo County are busy getting ready for fair week. Right now, kids are putting the finishing touches on photography projects, sewing exhibits, woodworking creations, STEM projects, baked goods, and so much more. Others are spending extra time in the barn, working with livestock and preparing for their time in the show ring.
All of that hard work will be on display at the Buffalo County Fair July 21-27, and we hope you'll come take a look.
When most people think about the fair, they think about carnival rides, concerts and fair food. Those are all wonderful parts of fair week, but don't miss the 4-H exhibits. They are truly one of the hidden gems of the fair.
Take a walk through the exhibit halls and you'll find everything from beautiful photographs and artwork to woodworking projects, sewing, home environment exhibits, science projects, robotics, baked goods, and much more. Every project has a story behind it. Many of these young people have spent months learning new skills, trying new things, and working through challenges to create something they are proud to share.
One of my favorite things about fair week is watching visitors stop to admire a project and hearing exhibitors explain how they made it. Sometimes a ribbon catches your eye, but often it's the creativity, effort, and enthusiasm behind the project that really stands out.
Of course, the learning doesn't stop inside the exhibit halls. Throughout the week, you'll find 4-H members showing the animals they have worked with all year. From bucket calves and beef cattle to rabbits, poultry, swine, sheep, and goats, there is always something happening in the livestock barns and show rings.
Be sure to check out some of the specialty events and shows. The Decorated Cake and Pie Auction and Fashion Show combo is a huge fan favorite for both 4-H members, their families and the public. The dog show agility course is always fun to watch as youth and their dogs work together through obstacles. The companion animal show is another crowd favorite and can include everything from cats and hamsters to gerbils and other unique pets. You never know what you might see!
The Buffalo County Fair is a chance to celebrate our community and the amazing young people who call it home. Whether you spend an hour or an entire day at the fair, I encourage you to slow down, wander through the exhibits, watch a few shows, and take time to appreciate all the hard work these youth have put into their projects.
The ribbons are exciting, but the real success is everything these young people have learned along the way. To learn more about what is happening each day at the Buffalo County Fair or the 4-H Program in general, please contact the Buffalo County Extension Office at (308) 236-1235 or email hdarby2@unl.edu for more information.