As we reflect on county fair, some will think about the banners and ribbons that were awarded. Some will still be exhausted from the long, hot days spent at the fairgrounds. Most will look back on county fair week and smile at all the memories that were made. But is that all county fairs consist of? Few may reflect on the week and recognize the growth that occurred and the skills and experiences that were gained. That, in itself, may be even more rewarding than those banners and ribbons.
In 4-H, contests are offered and projects are judged. Awards are given, and projects are ranked. Although those things can represent all the hard work and dedication that were put into them, it's about so much more than that. Honestly, it's not really about the ribbons or the banners at all. It's about the things that, 50 years from now, you will still remember, or, in many cases, still use. As a former 4-H'er, I still use skills that I learned at 8 years old while participating in contests and working on projects.
Thinking back to Entry Day, I remember seeing a judge high-five a young exhibitor who excitedly explained every little detail of how and why they designed their project the way they did. I remember walking into the barn and watching one kid help catch another kid's lamb after it got loose. I also remember the youth who walked out of the show ring with teary eyes, disappointed in how they had done, but quickly hustled to get their pig ready for the next class, putting a smile back on their face for another chance to compete alongside their friends. Whether they realize it now or not, all of these moments are shaping who they are. They are growing and learning through every experience.
One day, you probably won't remember when you received that red ribbon for your cake decorating project or when you earned a purple ribbon with your market barrow as an intermediate showman. What you will remember are the friendships you built and the memories you made. You'll remember the work ethic you developed from waking up early every morning to walk and wash your steer, or the patience you gained from spending over three hours painting that one canvas. I won't sit here and say I don't remember when I won that champion rosette ribbon, but not for the reason you may think. It's not about the rosette itself; it's about everything that led up to receiving it. I remember its significance because I know how hard I worked and what I did to prepare for the moment that judge shook my hand.
So, take a moment to reflect on the 2026 County Fair. Hang up those ribbons, post pictures of the wash rack water balloon fight, and smile at all of it. But most importantly, be grateful for every experience, even the tears. These are the moments that will stay with you for a lifetime. County fair is about so much more than one may realize, and all the tireless smiles, hard work, and wiped tears are worth every bit of it.