by For the first time ever, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Seneca County is teaming up with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Cayuga County 4-H to host a joint 4-H County Youth Fair, offering the public a fun and educational look at youth development in action.
The 2025 Cayuga and Seneca County 4-H Youth Fair will run Thursday, July 31 through Saturday, August 2, at the Union Springs Fire Department grounds, located at 257 Cayuga Street, Union Springs, NY. The fair will open to the public daily at 9 a.m., with a full schedule of events and exhibits showcasing local youth work in animal science, plant science, entomology, home economics, photography, and more.
New This Year
In addition to joining forces across counties, this year’s fair introduces an all-new Outdoor Skillathon, giving visitors a hands-on opportunity to engage with practical life and agricultural skills.
“The 4-H Youth County Fair provides 4-Hers with the opportunity to be evaluated and receive valuable feedback on the learning process and projects they have worked on throughout the year,” said Rachel Williams, Seneca County 4-H Program Leader. “It also gives them a chance to share that work with their families, peers, and members of the public.”
The fair is organized by 4-H program staff from both counties, with strong support from 4-H youth, families, and community volunteers.
2025 Fair Schedule Highlights
Tuesday, July 29 (Exhibitors Only)
- 6:00 PM – 4-H Youth Building Exhibit Judging
Thursday, July 31 (Open to Public)
- All-day: 4-H Project Displays in Youth Tent
- 10:00 AM – Sheep Herding Exhibition
- 12:00 PM – 4-H Poultry Show & Dairy Judging Clinic
- 2:00 PM – Goat & Sheep Showmanship, Market Auction Show, Breed Show
Friday, August 1 (Open to Public)
- All-day: 4-H Project Displays in Youth Tent
- 9:00 AM – Beef & Swine Showmanship, Market Auction Show, Breed Show
- 3:00 PM – Oxen Demonstration
- 4:00 PM – Dairy Showmanship
- 7:00 PM – All Animal Costume Show
Saturday, August 2 (Open to Public, with some exceptions)
- All-day: 4-H Project Displays in Youth Tent
- 9:30 AM – Dairy Breed Show
- 11:00 AM – Rabbit & Cavy Show
- 12:00–2:00 PM – Market Auction Buyer Registration
- 1:00 PM – Buyers’ Reception (Registered buyers & exhibitors only)
- 1:30 PM – Political Leader’s Show
- 3:00 PM – 3rd Annual 4-H Market Livestock Auction
- 5:00 PM – Tentative Animal & Exhibit Release
Organizers encourage families and community members to come out, support the youth, and experience agriculture, learning, and leadership in action. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome.
