4-H Building Rules & Classes

Department: 6 4-H Clubs

Jump to a Section:

4-H Exhibit, Demonstration & Contest Guidelines

The Missouri 4-H Center for Youth Development is under the direction of University of Missouri Extension.

“Learning By Doing” is the basis of 4-H work, and each year thousands of young Missourians between the ages of 8 and 18 do just that. 4-H members make the items displayed in the Missouri State Fair 4-H Building. The Missouri State Fair provides a showcase for the skills and knowledge that members have gained through their 4-H experiences.

Besides developing practical skills and knowledge, 4-H members are developing “life skills”. Under the leadership of adult volunteers, 4-H members learn to make sound decisions, work cooperatively in groups and develop a sense of self-worth and accomplishment. Missouri 4-H also fosters leadership, as older youth share their talents with younger 4-H members.

We salute all Missouri 4-H members, volunteers, and families, and particularly those whose “learning by doing” experiences are represented at the 2026 Missouri State Fair.

ALL ITEMS IN THE 4-H BUILDING HAVE BEEN JUDGED AS COUNTY CHAMPIONS. A SET NUMBER OF BEST OF SHOW PROJECTS WILL BE SELECTED.

Superintendents
4-H Building – Jim Sappington and Dustin Oehl (573-884-2036)
State Fair 4-H Livestock – Kelsey Fuller (573-882-8835)

The Missouri State Fair does not guarantee premium money, merchandise, prizes or special awards. Because the State Fair Commission is without constitutional or statutory authority to borrow money for its operation, it reserves the right to prorate premium money because of state budget restraints.

4-H Building Guidelines

  1. Items made by 4-H members should reflect the skills they have learned in their 4-H project, the needs and interests of the 4-H’er, and quality workmanship. Use the 4-H project literature, “Clover”, and suggestions listed in this guide for ideas. Any 4-H member of an organized club in a defined delivery mode and who is enrolled in an individual project may exhibit at the state level.
  2. 4-H members may display only in projects in which they are enrolled in the current 4-H year. Items must be made in the current year and must be the work of the 4-H member submitting the item.
  3. Items must be of blue-ribbon quality.
  4. Items are displayed at the risk of the 4-H member. The 4-H staff, Extension Centers and Missouri State Fair are not responsible for loss or damage to items.
  5. A member is limited to one item for physical display and one demonstration in the 4-H Building. A second item may be displayed electronically following the guidelines of projects too large or fragile for display.
  6. All 4-H Building items must be registered on the Missouri State Fair voucher computer program. Special instructions and deadlines for the preparation of these vouchers will be provided to 4-H staff.
  7. The 4-H member’s region, county and name should be permanently affixed to the following items. These items will be accepted from any project.
    • Notebook – Youth should select 1 page that represents their notebook. The page should be in a plastic sleeve to protect it while on display. No exhibits to be displayed in binders, folders, or notebooks will be accepted.
    • Posters – no larger than 14” X 22”, flat. No more than 6 posters per county. Counties may request an extension on this limit to be approved by the building superintendents.
    • Photo albums – No projects displayed in photo albums will be accepted.
    • Cookbooks – Youth should select 1 page that represents their cookbook. The page should be in a plastic sleeve to protect it while on display.
  8. All exhibits should reflect the educational learning gained from project work. This includes notebook pages, file cards, photo displays, posters, or educational displays. Be sure to mark the exhibit tag with Project number and description. Size restrictions may apply. See additional information in Rule #9. Photographs entered in project areas besides photography should follow the mounting and editing guidelines of photography exhibits listed on page 106.
  9. Because of display space, available cases and number of exhibits in certain projects, dimension criteria is specified. All physical projects must fit within a 24″ x 24″ x 24″ size limit. Items which do not comply with size or other specifications will not be displayed or receive a ribbon. There should be no posters, or patterns attached to projects. For scrapbooks, notebooks, photo albums, and cookbooks made in any project, only one page should be submitted. If more than one page is submitted, the exhibit will be disqualified.

    Educational and working displays should not exceed 24 inches in height, 24 inches in depth, and 24 inches in width. Science fair display boards are too large. Educational displays can include 3-D items and must be free standing. Posters with items taped to them do not qualify as educational displays. Working models should show how things actually work or identify parts.
  10. Perishable items such as food, vegetables, crops and home grown items will not be returned after the Fair. Perishable items will be discarded throughout the fair when quality has deteriorated. If a decorated cake is made with fondant and the fondant fails, the cake will be removed from display. If an item is no longer suitable for exhibit, it will be removed and the tag with a card stating its removal will be left in its place.
  11. Fire Hazard Prevention: Any exhibits using batteries, such as circuit boards or robots should not connect the wires to the battery; rather the wires should be taped behind the battery. Another option: Do not attach a battery, but indicate “battery goes here”.
  12. All 4-H Building items must be checked in and out of the 4-H Building by State Fair 4-H personnel during established times. (No exceptions will be made.) No early removal or checkout of items is permitted unless prior approval is given by the building superintendents. Items which are not properly checked in or out of the 4-H Building will not be awarded ribbons and/or premiums. 4-H Building staff are not responsible for exhibits that are not properly checked in or out of the building.
  13. Limited space is available for large exhibits. You must contact Jim at 573-884-2036 prior to 8/1/26 for approval of large, oversized exhibits. Determination of items to be showcased will be left to the discretion of the 4-H Building Co-Superintendents, based on available space, prior approval, and the safety of fairgoers. Submitting a photograph of the items is encouraged. Large projects that can also serve as display platforms for other projects are the most likely types to be approved.
  14. Photographs of items too large or fragile: This is restricted only to large items such as welding projects or large woodworking items like furniture; fragile items such as delicate ceramic work. It is not intended as a substitute category for bringing or mailing a project. Photographs of oversized or fragile items will be displayed digitally. Instructions to submit photos will be provided to 4-H professionals.
  15. All items must have a Missouri State Fair tag securely fastened in a place visible to fairgoers. Remove all county or regional ribbons. Two identification labels should be securely attached, sewn or safety pinned to each item, 1 on the outside/front of the item and a second one behind, underneath or inside (e.g., textile items such as clothing or knitted items). Multiple piece exhibits should be fully labeled and connected (Examples: jacket and skirt; rocket and rocket launcher). Each item in a multi-piece exhibit should be fully labeled and numbered to prevent items from being separated. Example: Each item in a 3 piece exhibit would be labeled with a State Fair tag and the notation, 1 of 3, 2 of 3, 3 of 3.
  16. Counties who mail or ship their items to the State Fair should enclose one printed copy of the State Fair Exhibit List in the box with the items, and mail one copy separately to: 4-H Superintendent, 4-H Building, Missouri State Fair, 2503 W. 16th St., Sedalia, MO 65301. Use sturdy boxes. Do not ship cakes or items in glass containers. All items must be properly tagged and ready for display. Counties may ship no more than five boxes of exhibits and must enclose CASH to cover the return shipping or mailing costs.

Project List

All exhibits should reflect the educational learning gained from project work. Check specific projects for exhibit guidelines.

Engineering and Technology

Class

Aerospace

  • AS811 AEROSPACE 1 NOVICE
  • AS812 AEROSPACE 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • AS813 AEROSPACE 3 ADVANCED (previously 3 and 4)

Project suggestions: model rocket, model airplane, identify the parts and what they do; create a display comparing birds and planes; make a display of kites and describe how they fly.

Agricultural Tractor

  • AT820 TRACTOR 1 NOVICE
  • AT821 TRACTOR 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • AT822 TRACTOR 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: Models on principles of engine operation, hydraulic systems, safe operations, etc.

Computers and Programming

  • CP895 SCRATCH
  • CP896 ALICE
  • CP897 OTHER PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES or COMPUTER PROGRAMS

Project suggestions: Write a computer program, create a poster showing a website you have created, educational display of the history of computers or programming.

Electricity

Items should be made in accordance with the National Electrical Code. Consult power suppliers or electricians for code requirements. Battery-operated items are also eligible items. Batteries should be disconnected or have a piece of black electrician tape placed on the ends.

  • EL831 ELECTRICITY 1 NOVICE
  • EL832 ELECTRICITY 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • EL833 ELECTRICITY 3 ADVANCED (PREVIOUSLY 3 AND 4)

Project suggestions: electrical circuits, motors, electronics

Energy

  • EG861 POWER OF THE WIND

Project suggestions: educational displays on energy, energy transformation, energy development

Geospatial

  • GS991 GEOSPATIAL 1 NOVICE
  • GS992 GEOSPATIAL 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • GS993 GEOSPATIAL 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: educational displays on GPS, GIS, topographical maps

Robotics

  • RO881 JUNK DRAWER ROBOTS 1 NOVICE
  • RO882 JUNK DRAWER ROBOTS 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • RO883 JUNK DRAWER ROBOTS 3 ADVANCED
  • RO884 ROBOTICS 1 – With EV3
  • RO885 ROBOTICS 2 – EV3N More
  • RO886 ADDITIONAL ROBOTICS PLATFORMS
  • RO887 YOUTH ROBOTICS COMPETITION PARTNERS

Project suggestions: constructed robots, educational displays on coding, building, competition, etc.

Small Engines

  • SE851 SMALL ENGINES 1 NOVICE
  • SE852 SMALL ENGINES 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • SE853 SMALL ENGINES 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: small engines for lawnmowers, model airplanes, ATVs, educational displays on motor construction, maintenance, etc.

4-H STEM Challenge

  • SC100 4-H STEM CHALLENGE

Project suggestions: educational display, science experiment results, etc.

Welding

Limited space is available for large exhibits. You must contact the State 4-H office at 573-882-9359 prior to 8/1/26 for approval of large, oversized exhibits. Determination of items to be showcased will be left to the discretion of the 4-H Building Co-Superintendents, based on available space, prior approval and the safety of fairgoers. Submitting a photograph of the items is encouraged.

  • WE846 WELDING

Project suggestions: decorative items, chains, tools, etc.

Woodworking

  • WO871 WOODWORKING 1 NOVICE
  • WO872 WOODWORKING 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • WO873 WOODWORKING 3 ADVANCED (PREVIOUSLY 3 AND 4)

Project suggestions: decorative items, small furniture, cutting boards, pens, etc.

Environmental Science and Natural Resources

Class

Amphibians and Reptiles

  • AR611 AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES: no live animals

Project suggestions: Habitat display, poster or educational display about care of animal, feeding, history, etc

Entomology

Suggested box size is 18” long X 24” wide X 3 ½ inches deep or smaller to fit in the display racks. All boxes must have a clear display lid; no open boxes allowed. The insects should be named, labeled and mounted so the boxes can be displayed horizontally. Securely fasten display cover with tape or screws. If a member’s entomology collection is displayed in more than one box, the member may send only one box for display.

  • EN921 ENTOMOLOGY 1 NOVICE
  • EN922 ENTOMOLOGY 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • EN923 ENTOMOLOGY 3 ADVANCED
  • EN924 BEEKEEPING 1 NOVICE
  • EN925 BEEKEEPING 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • EN926 BEEKEEPING 3 ADVANCED
  • EN927 BUTTERFLY WINGS

Project suggestions: displays of native/non-native insects, educational display on insect habitat, insect management, Beekeeping supplies, honey, honeycombs, bee hive box with parts labeled, educational display on butterfly species, habitat, monitoring.

Exploring Your Environment

  • EE914 ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
  • EE915 EARTH’S CAPACITY

Project suggestions: educational displays on pollution, ecosystems, natural sciences and technology

Forestry

  • FO931 FORESTRY 1 NOVICE
  • FO932 FORESTRY 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • FO933 FORESTRY 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: tree identification display via leaves, bark, or wood, educational display on forest habitats

Geology

Suggested box size is 18” long X 24” wide X 3 ½ inches deep or smaller to fit in the display racks. All boxes must have a clear display lid; no open boxes. The rocks should be named, labeled and mounted so the boxes can be displayed horizontally. Securely fasten display cover with tape or screws. If a member’s geology collection is displayed in more than one box, the member may send only one box for display.

  • GG941 GEOLOGY

Project suggestions: rock collection, educational display on geological features

Outdoor Adventures

  • OA761 OUTDOOR 1 (HIKING)
  • OA762 OUTDOOR 2 (CAMPING)
  • OA763 OUTDOOR 3 (BACKPACKING)

Project suggestions: backpacking kits, hiking supplies, diagrams on pitching a tent, etc.

Soil and Water Science

  • SW916 SOIL AND WATER SCIENCE 1 NOVICE
  • SW917 SOIL AND WATER SCIENCE 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • SW918 SOIL AND WATER SCIENCE 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: soil sampled displays, educational displays on water quality assessment, soil health, water and soil conservation, etc.

Sportfishing

  • SF725 SPORTFISHING 1 NOVICE
  • SF726 SPORTFISHING 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • SF727 SPORTFISHING 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: lures, knots, flies, reels, rods, educational displays on fish identification, habitat, fishing techniques, etc.

Weather and Climate Science

  • WC934 WEATHER AND CLIMATE SCIENCE 1 NOVICE
  • WC935 WEATHER AND CLIMATE SCIENCE 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • WC936 WEATHER AND CLIMATE SCIENCE 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: educational displays on the water cycle, weather phenomena, ecological climate systems

Wildlife

  • WI720 WILDLIFE CONSERVATION 1 NOVICE
  • WI721 WILDLIFE CONSERVATION 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • WI722 WILDLIFE CONSERVATION 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: educational displays on wildlife identification, habitat, management, conservation, etc.

Plant and Animal Science

Class

Agronomy: Field Crops

  • AG982 FIELD CROPS 1 NOVICE
  • AG983 FIELD CROPS 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • AG984 FIELD CROPS 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: sample of field crops, educational displays on crop growth, pest management, crop identification

Beef

  • BF121 BEEF 1 NOVICE
  • BF122 BEEF 2 INTERMDIATE
  • BF123 BEEF 3 ADVANCED
  • BC135 BUCKET CALF

Project suggestions: Rope halters, lead ropes, feed bunk, grooming items, educational display of breeds, parasites, feed rations

Cats

  • CA177 CAT CARE 1 NOVICE
  • CA178 CAT CARE 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • CA179 CAT CARE 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: emergency care kit, educational display of breeds, care, feed, health issues, or training

Dairy (Also see Goats)

  • DA131 DAIRY 1 NOVICE
  • DA132 DAIRY 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • DA133 DAIRY 3 ADVANCED
  • DA134 JUDGING DAIRY CATTLE

Project suggestions: educational display and poster exhibits may include, but are not limited to the study of: the economic impact of dairy cattle to Missouri and the nation; general animal behavior, health, nutrition; genetics and breeding; or promotion and marketing, bio-security, careers in the dairy industry.

Other exhibits may include, but are not limited to the following examples: rope halters, lead ropes, feed bunks, hot boxes for new born livestock hay feeders, stands for grooming items, etc.

Dogs

  • DG171 DOG 1 NOVICE
  • DG172 DOG 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • DG173 DOG 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: Educational display and poster exhibits may include, but are not limited to: dog health, training methods, nutrition, grooming, or breed types. Create an emergency care kit for your pet and place all essential items in a sturdy container (e.g., duffle bag, backpack or durable plastic container) that you can carry easily.

Goats

  • GA125 MEAT GOATS 1 NOVICE
  • GA126 MEAT GOATS 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • GA127 MEAT GOATS 3 ADVANCED
  • GA136 DAIRY GOATS 1 NOVICE
  • GA137 DAIRY GOATS 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • GA138 DAIRY GOATS 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: Rope halters, lead ropes, feed bunk, grooming items, educational display of breeds, parasites, feed rations

Horses

  • HS140 HORSELESS HORSE & HORSE KNOWLEDGE
  • HS141 HORSE RIDING

Project suggestions: bridles, lead ropes, feed bunk, grooming items, educational display of breeds, parasites, feed rations

Horticulture

FLORICULTURE – Live plants, cut specimens, silk flower arrangements, or any other item relating to floriculture may be displayed.

  • HO961 FLORICULTURE 1 NOVICE
  • HO962 FLORICULTURE 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • HO963 FLORICULTURE 3 ADVANCED (PREVIOUSLY 3 AND 4)

Project suggestions: floral arrangements, produce, plants, educational displays on maintaining a garden, creating arrangements design plan, educational display on selecting plants, landscaping elements, etc.

Gardening

Fruits, vegetables, or any other item related to gardening. Fruits and vegetables must be grown by the 4-H’er and be of reasonable quaility to keep more than a week. Use disposable containers to transport the items.

  • HO971 GARDENING 1 NOVICE
  • HO972 GARDENING 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • HO973 GARDENING 3 ADVANCED

Landscape Design

  • HO975 LANDSCAPE DESIGN 1 NOVICE
  • HO976 LANDSCAPE DESIGN 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • HO977 LANDSCAPE DESIGN 3 ADVANCED

Livestock Judging

  • LJ117 LIVESTOCK JUDGING

Project suggestions: educational display on characteristics, judging, skills, giving reasons, etc.

Meats

The 4-H member is required to complete all open division entry forms available in the Premium Guide at www.mostatefair.com, which should accompany the project at check-in and pay the $1.00 entry fee and $2.00 processing fee which is required in the Agriculture Building. Checks must be made payable to “Missouri State Fair”. Hams and Bacons should be checked in and out at the Agriculture Building and will be displayed there. See rules for hams and bacon under the Agriculture Department section.

  • ME114 COUNTRY CURED BACON
  • ME115 COUNTRY CURED HAM
  • ME116 MEAT EVALUATION PROJECT

Project suggestions: cured bacon/ham, educational displays on meat curing, quality, retail, etc.

Pets

  • PE101 PETS 1 NOVICE
  • PE102 PETS 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • PE103 PETS 3 ADVANCED
  • PE104 GUINEA PIGS (Cavies)

Project suggestions: Educational display and poster exhibits may include, but are not limited to: health, training methods, nutrition, grooming, or breed types. Create an emergency care kit for your pet and place all essential items in a sturdy container (e.g., duffle bag, backpack or durable plastic container) that you can carry easily.

Poultry

  • PO151 POULTRY 1 NOVICE
  • PO152 POULTRY 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • PO153 POULTRY 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: educational display of breeds, parasites, feed rations

Rabbits

  • RB111 RABBITS 1 NOVICE
  • RB112 RABBITS 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • RB113 RABBITS 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: grooming items, educational display of breeds, parasites, feed rations

Sheep

  • SH161 SHEEP 1 NOVICE
  • SH162 SHEEP 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • SH163 SHEEP 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: Rope halters, lead ropes, feed bunk, grooming items, educational display of breeds, parasites, feed rations

Swine

  • SW181 SWINE 1 NOVICE
  • SW182 SWINE 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • SW183 SWINE 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: educational display of breeds, parasites, feed rations

Veterinary Science

  • VS191 VETERINARY SCIENCE 1 NOVICE
  • VS192 VETERINARY SCIENCE 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • VS193 VETERINARY SCIENCE 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: veterinary instruments, educational displays on diagnosis, treatment, prevention, etc.

Leadership and Personal Development

Class

Career Pathways

  • CP100 CAREER EXPLORATIONS

Project suggestions: educational display on education, careers, a specific job

Civic Engagement

  • CI200 CIVIC ENGAGEMENT

Project suggestions: Educational display and poster exhibits may include, but are not limited to: community service, volunteering, sportsmanship, stewardship, political action

Communications

  • CM237 COMMUNICATIONS 1 NOVICE
  • CM238 COMMUNICATIONS 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • CM239 COMMUNICATIONS 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: educational display on verbal, nonverbal, unique types of communication

Consumer Savvy

  • CS431 CONSUMER 1 NOVICE
  • CS432 CONSUMER 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • CS433 CONSUMER 3 ADANCED

Project suggestions: Making an information chart comparing cost and value of 3 or more items related to the home.

Entrepreneurship

  • EP442 ENTREPRENEURSHIP 1 NOVICE
  • EP443 ENTREPRENEURSHIP 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • EP444 ENTREPRENEURSHIP 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: item made as part of a small business, business plan, marketing materials

Financial Literacy

  • FL421 FINANCIAL LITERACY 1
  • FL422 FINANCIAL LITERACY 2

Project suggestions: sample budget, educational display on goal setting, financial management plan

Global Education

  • GE221 GLOBAL EDUCATION

Project suggestions: items made representing other cultures, educational displays on foreign cultures, nations

Leadership

  • LD271 LEADERSHIP 1 NOVICE
  • LD272 LEADERSHIP 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • LD273 LEADERSHIP 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: educational display on facilitation techniques, leadership methods, styles, etc.

Public Speaking

  • PS242 PUBLIC SPEAKING

Project suggestions: educational display on elements of speaking such as tone, appearance, posture, etc.

Expressive Arts

Class

Arts and Crafts

Scrapbooking exhibits should be a 1 page/1 side representative of the complete scrapbook.

  1. Size not to exceed 12″x12″.
  2. All pages should be in clear protective sleeve or clear zipper bag.
  3. Do not frame scrapbook page.
  4. If more than one page is submitted for an exhibit, the exhibit will be disqualified.
  • AC311 ARTS AND CRAFTS
  • AC312 VISUAL ARTS: DRAWING, FIBER ARTS, AND SCULPTURE
  • AC313 VISUAL ARTS: PAINTING, PRINTING, AND GRAPHIC DESIGN
  • AC314 GRAPHIC DESIGN
  • AC315 SCRAPBOOKING

Project suggestions: Screen printing, watercolor painting, oil or acrylic painting, computer art, stenciling, calligraphy, stained glass, clay sculptures, weaving, ceramics, leather work, handmade jewelry.

Cake Decorating

Decorated Cakes – Cakes (including the thickness of the cake board) should not exceed 13 inches in height. Cake boards should be sturdy, especially if using a cake pan. The use of styrofoam forms is recommended.

May only use Royal Icing, Rolled Fondant or commercial product that will harden and preserve the decorated cake. Cakes may only contain non-perishable items. They should not be real cakes, or use butter creme, soft royal icing, or tube/gel icing, or include items such as pineapple tops or real flowers. Adding Tylose powder to fondant will help it hold its shape in humidity.

Cakes with candy decorations are allowed; however, avoid using candy that melts (e.g., M & Ms, candy canes, etc.). Cakes that have melting items will be removed from display. No more than six (6) per county total – all levels.

  • CD361 CAKE DECORATING 1 NOVICE
  • CD362 CAKE DECORATING 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • CD363 CAKE DECORATING 3 ADVANCED

Clothing

Be sure to double tag all clothing items.

  • CL521 SEWING 1 NOVICE
  • CL522 SEWING 2 INTERMEDITATE
  • CL523 SEWING 3 ADVANCED
  • CL524 SHOPPING IN STYLE

Project suggestions: A constructed garment or accessory based upon level of enrollment. Blouse or shirt; skirt or jumper; Dress; Shorts, pants, culottes, or other one-piece garment with a crotch seam; Jacket, coat or cape; Outfit of two or more pieces; Sleepwear, robe or swim wear.

Clowning

  • CW231 CLOWNING

Project suggestions: Make-up display, costume, poster or educational display of clowning history, famous clowns, etc.

Crochet

  • CR321 CROCHET

Project suggestions: Garment, accessory or home goods item. Hat, gloves, hot pad, sweater, blanket, etc.

Filmmaking

  • FM270 FILMMAKING

Project suggestions: educational display on making a film, set design, directing

Interior Design

  • ID471 INTERIOR DESIGN 1 NOVICE
  • ID472 INTERIOR DESIGN 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • ID473 INTERIOR DESIGN 3 ADVANCED (PREVIOULY 3 AND 4)

Project suggestions: interior design plans/examples

Knitting

  • KN331 KNITTING

Project suggestions: Garment, accessory or home goods item. Hat, gloves, hot pad, sweater, blanket, etc.

Photography

All exhibits that are photographs, regardless of the project area in which they are entered, must follow the rules outlined below.

Requirements:

  1. Photos must be mounted on a rectangular 8”x10” matte board. It can be the color of the photographer’s choice.
  2. The photographs must be 8”x10” or smaller.
  3. The mounted photo should be placed in a clear plastic 8 ¼ x 10 ½ inch sleeve.

Please Note:

Solid requires that there are no cutouts (or other holes) in the matte board, either around or behind the photo (for example, a surface shaped like a picture frame is not a solid mounting surface).

Sleeves are intended to protect these special exhibits from handling, dust and humidity

Digital Editing Rules

For State Fair 4-H photography exhibits, certain types of editing are permissible and others are not.

  1. Altering (editing to change the contents of) a photo is not permitted for State Fair exhibits
    • Examples include adding a sunset or object, removing someone from the shot, airbrushing to cover a bad complexion, giving a photo subject dinosaur eyes, etc.
  2. Enhancing (editing to improve the existing qualities of) a photo is permitted.
    • Examples include cropping the photo, eliminating redeye and changing levels of saturation, brightness, contrast, etc.

*Include name, address and county on the back of each photo.

State Fair 4-H photography exhibit guidelines will be posted at https://extension.missouri.edu/programs/missouri-4-h/4-h-projects-opportunities/4-h-opportunities/4-h-state-fair. No more than ten (10) per county total.

Demonstrations

General and working demonstrations are not judged at the State Fair.

  1. Demonstrations must have earned a blue ribbon at a county achievement event and have been selected for State Fair.
  2. 4-H Staff must approve demonstrations in 4HOnline as close to July 15 as possible.
  3. A member is limited to ONE DEMONSTRATION in the 4-H Building.
  4. Team Demonstrations may consist of no more than three (3) members. An exception is made for skits presented in Theatre Arts project. Theatre Arts may consist of no more than seven (7) members. Please refer to specialty contests which may have stricter rules.
  5. Demonstrations involving live animals, open flames or other unusual circumstances must call Jim at 573-884-2036 in the State 4-H Office for pre-approval. Firearms, ammunition, bows and arrows, tasers, stun guns, swords, or axes are prohibited on grounds by the Missouri State Fair.
  6. Each 4-H member eligible to demonstrate will need to select date preference in 4HOnline. The demonstration schedule is posted on the Missouri 4-H website (http://mo4h.missouri.edu) after August 1.
  7. Demonstrators must provide their own ingredients, equipment, extension cords and props. A three-prong electric outlet, demonstration table and easel will be provided by the State Fair 4-H Building staff.

4-H General Demonstrations

Sponsor: Missouri 4-H

Number of entries per county: Twenty (20)
Judging Criteria: Not applicable
Age: Any age 4-H member
Length of time: 5-10 minutes
Project enrollment: May be enrolled in any 4-H project.
Other: General demonstrations are those where the 4-H member shows and tells others how to do something. They are more formal than working demonstrations; therefore, require the use of a microphone.

Working Demonstrations

Sponsor: Missouri 4-H

Number of entries per county: Six (6)
Judging Criteria: Not applicable
Age: Any age 4-H member
Length of time: Approximately 30 minutes
Project enrollment: May be enrolled in any 4-H project.
Other: Working demonstrations are more casual than General Demonstrations. Working demonstrators do not use a microphone or stage. Youth work on a project while responding to fairgoers questions. A poster giving the topic of the demonstration and the 4-H member’s name can be displayed on the table during the working demonstration.

  • PH351 PHOTOGRAPHY 1 NOVICE
  • PH352 PHOTOGRAPHY 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • PH353 PHOTOGRAPHY 3 ADVANCED

Quilting

  • QU341 QUILTING 1 NOVICE (PREVIOUSLY 1 AND 2)
  • QU342 QUILTING 2 INTERMEDIATE (PREVIOUSLY 3 AND 4)
  • QU343 QUILTING 3 ADVANCED (PREVIOUSLY 5 AND 6)

Project suggestions: children’s quilt, bed quilt, pot holders, coasters, etc.

Theatre Arts

  • TA251 THEATRE ARTS 1 NOVICE
  • TA252 THEATRE ARTS 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • TA253 THEATRE ARTS 3 ADVANCED

Project suggestions: costume, props, educational displays on theatre performance

Healthy Living

Foods/Nutrition/Preservation

  1. Food must be of reasonable quality to keep more than a week. Do not send food items which will spoil quickly such as casseroles, pizza, cream or fruit pies, items made with cream cheese, etc.
  2. Submit food items on disposable, clear, plastic plates. Plastic wrap will be removed so drying of the food will extend display life of the product. Food items will be displayed with their tags. Please do not send expensive or keepsake containers!
  3. No samples or recipes are needed with any food items.
  4. Perishable food items will need a second identification label. Perishable food items will be displayed with their tags.
  5. Biscuits, cookies, muffins and other small items should be four per plate. Non/Undecorated cakes should be displayed in mini-versions (portions of 1/3 to 1/4 of a larger total product.)
  • FP500 FREEZING
  • FP501 DRYING
  • FP502 BOILING WATER CANNING
  • FP503 PRESSURE CANNING
  • FN551 FOODS 1 NOVICE
  • FN552 FOODS 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • FN553 FOODS 3 ADVANCED (PREVIOUSLY 3 AND 4)
  • FN557 INTERNATIONAL FOODS
  • FS566 FOOD SCIENCE 1 NOVICE
  • FS567 FOOD SCIENCE 2 INTERMEDIATE
  • FS568 FOOD SCIENCE 3 ADVANCED (PREVIOUSLY 3 AND 4)
  • FN581 BREADS

BREADS: No samples are needed with any food item. Bread products may be displayed in mini or full size versions. Please send items on disposable, clear, plastic plates, unless it is a gift package. Please do not send expensive or keepsake containers!

Health/Fitness

  • HF711 BOWLING
  • HF712 GOLF
  • HF713 SQUARE DANCING
  • HF714 SOCCER FOR SUCCESS
  • BY731 BICYCLE 1
  • BY732 BICYCLE 2
  • HF771 FIRST AID
  • HF772 STAYING HEALTHY
  • HF773 KEEPING FIT
  • HF774 PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN 4-H CLUBS

Project suggestions: healthy living kits, education displays on sportsmanship, health, exercise, poster with bicycle parts labeled, bike safety suggestions, benefits of bicycling

Shooting Sports

No live ammunition and arrow points should be removed.

  • SS740 SHOOTING SPORTS SAFETY
  • SS741 ARCHERY
  • SS742 AIR RIFLE (BB and/or Pellet)
  • SS743 SMALLBORE RIFLE
  • SS744 AIR PISTOL
  • SS745 SHOTGUN
  • SS747 SMALLBORE PISTOL
  • SS748 MUZZLELOADING
  • SS749 HUNTING AND OUTDOOR SKILLS
  • SS750 WESTERN HERITAGE & COWBOY SHOOTING

Project suggestions: targets, holsters, educational displays on safety or skills in given disciplines, etc.

Exploring 4-H

  • EX261 EXPLORING THE TREASURES OF 4-H

Self Determined

LEADERSHIP AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNICATION AND EXPRESSIVE ARTS

  • SD950 SELF DETERMINED CITIZENSHIP, LEADERSHIP, AND COMMUNICATION

HEALTHY LIVING

  • SD951 SELF DETERMINED HEALTHY LIVING

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND NATURAL RESOURCES, & PLANT AND ANMIAL SCIENCE

  • SD952 SELF DETERMINED SCIENCE

Specialty Contests

Chicken Bar-B-Q Contest

Sponsor: Missouri 4-H

Clover 4-H logo

Monday, August 17, 2026 – cooking area assignment and set-up 8:30-9:30 a.m., East side of the 4-H Building

Co-Chairs
Jesse Lyons and Dorris Lyons
Phone: 573-474-8257
Email: lyonsj@missouri.edu

Number of entries per county: Four (4)
Judging Criteria: Contestant’s barbecue skills as demonstrated while preparing/cooking the chicken, and by judges’ sensory evaluation of the finished product.
Age: Age 14-18 as of January 1st of current program year.
Length of time: 2 1/2 hours time limit. Cooked product must be turned in by 12 Noon.
Project enrollment: May be enrolled in any 4-H project.
Sample required: Three (3) barbecued chicken thighs should be presented to the judges on provided plates or containers without garnishes.

Other:

  1. Pre-registration and barbeque grill request, if desired, due in 4-H Online no later than August 1.
  2. Contestants may have one adult (leader or parent) as a coach supervising and assisting during set-up, although cooking and product handling is restricted to the contestant. Electricity or portable generators may not be used or provided.
  3. Date of event information:
    1. Monitors provide participants with charcoal and lighter fluid, if desired.
    2. Contestants may bring their own lighter fluid and non-self-starting charcoal.
    3. Contestants must furnish all other equipment and supplies, including sauce (commercial or private recipe). A small work table may also be useful.
    4. Monitors will provide each participant with six (6) broiler or roaster chicken thighs for cooking and a plate or container at turn-in
    5. Contestants may use their own grills if it does not exceed 350-400 square inches. Baskets may not be used for turning. Small containers may be used on the grill only for heating sauces although foil may be used to wrap or shield the thighs while cooling.
    6. Thighs may be prepared boneless or bone-in.
    7. The contestant may not puncture the thighs to inject fluid or sauce into the meat.
    8. Three of the six provided thighs must be turned in for sensory evaluation.
    9. Contestants use charcoal barbecue grilling techniques and present three (3) barbecued chicken thighs to judges on plat or container, without garnishes, at or before the end of the 2.5 hour period. In addition, the youth should give the judges a standard recipe card with information about sauce (brand or major ingredients) and key cooking instructions
  4. Ribbons will be awarded. Winning contestant who is 14-18 years old as of January 1 of the current year will qualify for the National 4-H Chicken Barbecue Demonstration Contest in Louisville, Kentucky in November. Website for the national contest is https://national4hpoultry.ca.uky.edu. An additional contestant may qualify to cook turkey in the Turkey BBQ Contest at the national meeting. Assistance with expenses for attending national competition will be provided (amount may vary based on funding) to the national contest representatives.

Cooking with Honey Contest

Sponsor: Missouri State Beekeepers Association

Date: Friday, August 21, 2026

Number entries per county: 3 per county (1 from each age division; 8-10, 11-13 and 14 and older)
Judging criteria: The demonstrator must use honey grown or made by a Missouri honey producer or company; provide the honey producer or company’s name; give nutrition information; the health benefits of honey and the benefits of pollinators. The demonstrator must present a finished product for judges’ sampling and a recipe handout for the judges.
Age: Any age 4-H member (8-10, 11-13, 14 and older)
Length of time: 20 minutes, including prep, demo and clean up
Project enrollment: Any project
Sample required: A sample of the food and a copy of the recipe should be given to judges
Other: 1st-3rd place will receive Missouri State Bee Keepers products. Awards will be presented 30 minutes after the last demonstration. The Missouri Beekeeper’s web site http://mostatebeekeepers.org includes a list of regional beekeeper associations.

Missouri Grown Foods Contest

Sponsor: Missouri Department of Agriculture

Saturday, August 22, 2026

Number of entries per county: Three (3), one from age group 8-10, one from age group 11-13 & one from age group 14 & up.
Judging Criteria: The demonstrator must use a food product grown or made by a Missouri Grown member; provide background information on the producer or company, nutrition and preparation information, and the economics of the food product and the final dish. The demonstrator must present a finished product for judges’ sampling and a recipe handout for the judges.
Age: Any age 4-H member (8-10, 11-13, 14 and older)
Length of time: 7-10 minutes
Project enrollment: May be enrolled in any 4-H project.
Sample required: A copy of the recipe and sample of the food should be given to judges.
Team: No team demonstrations allowed
Other: The top 3 places in each age range will receive Missouri Grown Products. Awards will be presented 30 minutes after the last demonstration. A list of Missouri grown and/or made food products is available at MissouriGrownUSA.com. For more information, call 573-522-6715.

Other Special Events

Saturday, August 15, 2026
4-H Family and Clover Kid Day

Monday, August 17, 2026
State 4-H/FFA Dog Show

For Missouri State Fair Scholarship information, please refer to the Sale of Champions section of this catalog.