WEST SPRINGFIELD — The Hampden County 4-H Youth Fair returns this summer to the Eastern States Exposition on July 26 with a full day of hands-on activities, youth exhibits and community celebrations aimed at showcasing the talents and dedication of local youth.
Taking place annually since 1953, the fair is a cherished tradition that continues to evolve while staying true to its mission.
“The primary mission of the association and the Hampden County 4-H Youth Fair is to promote, educate and encourage the enrichment of all youth in Hampden County,” said volunteer Sarah Bonini. “To accomplish this goal, the association conducts an annual fair open to all youth between the ages of 5 and 18.”
The event features a wide variety of competitions and exhibits. Visitors can expect to see livestock shows featuring cattle, goats, sheep, working steers and a dog show. Local law enforcement will showcase comfort dogs and the Hampden County Sheriff’s Mounted Patrol Unit, adding to the excitement.
One of the fair’s standout qualities is its blend of agriculture, science and family fun. “We offer the Rick Sullivan Memorial Fun Run to promote healthy, active lifestyles at 9 a.m.,” said Bonini. “At 10 a.m., UMASS 4-H STEM ambassadors will lead a bottle rocket build and launch, plus hands-on science and STEM presentations.”
Safety and recreation also take center stage with a bike rodeo hosted by Pedal Thru Youth and the West Springfield Police Department. Younger attendees can participate in the popular Pedal Tractor Pull at 1 p.m., along with a craft table and a scavenger hunt available throughout the day.
Behind the exhibits are months of work and dedication. “Through 4-H programming, youth learn by doing, working within their project areas to fine-tune valuable life skills in confidence, teamwork, leadership, public speaking and community service,” said Bonini. Projects range from livestock to gardening, and hall exhibits celebrate creativity in photography, textile crafts, woodworking and more. STEM and tech projects continue to grow year after year.
Unlike other fairs, the Hampden County 4-H Youth Fair is independently operated as a nonprofit. “Our fair is open to all youth in Hampden County, not just 4-H members, and all who enter projects receive prizes and premium money for quality exhibits,” Bonini explained.
Much of the fair’s success relies on dedicated volunteers and community support. Planning is a year-round effort. “Fundraising for the fair and the continued mission comes primarily from sales at the 4-H Milk Booth at the Big E,” Bonini noted. “The booth is staffed by volunteers all 17 days and serves up tasty jet shakes and bottled milk that fairgoers flock to enjoy each year.”
As the fair continues to grow with the times, its heart remains the same — celebrating youth, community and the value of learning by doing.
The fair will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. More information and a detailed schedule can be found at hampdencounty4hyouthfair.org.
