THE 73RD HAMPDEN COUNTY 4-H & YOUTH FAIR RETURNS TO EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION

All Youth Welcome to Participate, July 25

It seems like everyone’s all about baking, crafting and other forms of trendy homemaking these days, but 4-H has been ahead of the curve for nearly 125 years, teaching hard work, cultivating curious minds and partnering youth with trusted mentors. Celebrate 4-H, an authentic American tradition, at the Hampden County 4-H & Youth Fair at the Mallary Complex at Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass., on Saturday, July 25, from 9am-5pm.

All youth from the region, regardless of 4-H member status, are welcome to participate in the fun, including the Fun Run, Bike Rodeo and Pedal Tractor Pull (kids ages 12 and under). Non-members can also participate in, observe and learn from 4-H members during showmanship and demonstrations.

Most individuals know that 4-H projects include animals such as dogs, chickens, rabbits, horses, cows, goats and sheep, but few know that projects also extend to homemaking, STEAM projects, gardening and native produce, baking and arts and crafts. There are numerous ways to get involved in 4-H, and there is a niche for everyone.

Emerson Pajer of Agawam, Mass., is an eighth grader and Hampden County 4-H exhibitor who trains and shows her golden retriever, Sam, during the 4-H & Youth Fair. Of Emerson’s experience in 4-H, her father, Brett Pajer, said, “She never had an interest in sports. Her sister was all about softball, but she liked dogs. When she found 4-H it clicked; she found her niche. It was her place. She trained Sam, our family dog, and she loves it.”

Beyond showmanship, there are lots of other activities to join in on or watch at the Hampden County 4-H & Youth Fair. The Pedal Thru Youth (PTY) Bike Rodeo returns at last to teach children the rules of the road in a hands-on manner through safe bicycling. PTY is a non-profit organization that encourages active lifestyles and healthy habits among youths. They donate bicycles and helmets to children and families that could not afford such luxuries without such a resource by partnering with local charities, law enforcement and public schools.

Annually, Eastern States Exposition contributes nearly $200,000 to support agricultural events and programs that take place on the fairgrounds outside of The Big E’s runtime, including supporting this event. There are more than 3,000 4-Hers present during the Fair, both enjoying the attractions and exhibiting their livestock, produce and other projects.

During The Big E, 4-H Milk Booth in front of the Mallary Complex and the 4-H Apple Booth in Farm-A-Rama serve as 17-day fundraisers, education centers and opportunities for recruitment. The 4-H Beef Auction is also a significant fundraiser for 4-H students from throughout New England; individuals and organizations draw together to big on stuffed raffle baskets and painstakingly raised steers to support the 4-Hers that raised them. Proceeds ensure that exhibitors can purchase their next project and continue their education.

Interested in supporting or learning more about 4-H opportunities and clubs? Consider attending the Hampden County 4-H & Youth Fair on Saturday, July 25, or visiting one of their booths at The Big E, Sept. 18 through Oct. 4. Find more details at EasternStatesExposition.com!