Close your eyes. Can you smell the funnel cakes? See the animals shifting in their pens? Hear squeals of joy as kids enjoy the rides? It’s fair time!

The Hillsborough County Fair kicks off fair season. Fairs provide youth with opportunities to showcase knowledge of their project, share that knowledge with the public, and challenge themselves and each other in competition. Hillsborough County is fortunate to host three fairs for our 4-H members to participate in throughout the year.

4-H Projects for every interest

4-H, a youth development program for youth 5-18 years, partners children with caring adult mentors who help youth develop valuable life skills. In addition to their hard work, youth learn through hands-on activities. 4-H has three major priority areas: Science, Citizenship & Leadership, and Healthy Living. 4-H Members can choose from more than 50 projects including science, engineering and technology, animals and agriculture, food & nutrition, outdoor adventures, marine science, public speaking, art and wildlife. Because youth choose their projects, they are excited to put in much time and effort into learning. Furthermore, youth develop life skills including leadership, goal setting, responsibility, and self-esteem when working on their projects.

See you at the Fair!

Visit the Hillsborough County Fair from October 19-22 & 26-29, 2017. In addition to fair food and your favorite rides, walk the art displays and tour the animal tents. Hillsborough 4-H members have worked hard creating masterpieces or have spent hours grooming and feeding their animals to prepare. Because of their passion for 4-H, exhibitors will be happy to speak with you about their project and what they are learning. For the fair event schedule, visit http://hillsboroughcountyfair.com/

Finally, I want to wish good luck to all Hillsborough County Fair 4-H exhibitors as you challenge yourselves. Most of all, strive to “make the best better!”

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