Junior Fair Program

We Build Champion Kids in the Richland County Junior Fair Program!

Eligible Organizations and Age Limits

The Richland County Junior Fair currently consists of the following youth organizations: 4-H and FFA. Boys and girls affiliated with these eligible member/youth organizations in Richland County are eligible to exhibit, subject to the rules of their respective organizations. Their last year of participation shall be the year the member turns 19.

Purpose and Community Support

The Richland County Junior Fair is intended to be the showcase of 4-H and FFA youth and their enrolled projects. In 2019, more than 950 youth exhibited one or more projects in the Junior Fair.

Through the many programs, shows, and activities offered during the Junior Fair, exhibitors have the opportunity to learn by doing and to compete with each other in a friendly, safe atmosphere. Many local individuals, businesses, and agencies support the Junior Fair via trophies, cash awards, banners, and other awards.

Code of Conduct

Junior Fair exhibitors shall:

• Conduct themselves in a courteous and respectful manner.
• Exhibit good sportsmanship and refrain from unethical activities.
• Uphold all Junior Fair rules and policies.
• Carry a positive attitude about the Junior Fair.
• Represent the positive youth development of their respective organizations.

Important Deadlines

• Project Enrollment: All Junior Fair enrollment (4-H and FFA) for fair participation is due in The Ohio State University Extension Office by the deadline of April 1. Exhibitors must be enrolled in the project by this time or will be considered ineligible for fair participation (no exceptions).
• Fair Entries: Fair entries must be made for all Junior Fair breathing animal projects by July 1 (unless July 1 falls on a Saturday or Sunday, then the deadline shall be the following Monday) or within the designated 4-H and FFA active advisor verification period (July 1–15).

Participation and Livestock Sale Eligibility

To be eligible to show, exhibit, or participate within any Richland County Junior Fair program/class, or to participate in the Livestock Sale, the exhibitor must meet the following six requirements:

1. Be properly enrolled by the April 1 deadline.
2. Have completed the required project requirements.
3. Complete the Quality Assurance class, if applicable to the project.
4. Have successfully participated in an official county interview judging experience by the required deadline time.
5. Have submitted a complete fair entry by the deadline.
6. Have the exhibit on display for the entirety of the Richland County Fair (Exception: see rules #27, #33, and #36).

The leadership for the Richland County Junior Fair is the Richland Couunty Junior Fair Board. This 46 member organization is comprised of 4-H and FFA members, ages 14 -19 years, representing 4-H members and/or vocational agriculture student exhibitors. The object of this group is to promote the welfare of Richland County boys and girls through their activities and exhibits at the Richland County Fair. Terms shall be one year and are renewable for successive terms upon completion of successful membership responsibilities. Membership in this organization is open to all interested persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status, socio-economic level, or geographic location as long as previous  stipulations (listed above) are met. All members are assigned to a department. Service in a department is limited to two years. All members are expected to fulfill their department, committee and board responsibilities on an annual basis. Regular attendance is expected and required at meetings, workdays and Junior Fair Board functions.

2026 Junior Fair Board

2026 Junior Fair Board Members