1. See Kentucky State Fair General Rules on pages 6-13 of the Kentucky State Fair Book.
2. Eligibility 
   1. Age – any 4-H’er who has passed his/her 9th birthday as of January 1 of the current year but has NOT passed his/her 19th birthday as of January 1 of the current year. There are no Cloverbud exhibits permitted in Cloverville.
   2. Participation – The exhibitor must have, since the last state fair, carried an approved project, of which the exhibit is a part, under the general supervision of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service
   3. Residence – Entry in the 4-H section is open to only 4-H participants residing in Kentucky.
   4. Exhibitors must conform to the:
      1. General rules listed here plus general rules of the Kentucky State Fair AND
      2. Specific rules governing the department in which entries are made.
3. Entries must be in the name of the 4-H participant who completed the work on the project being exhibited. A social security or federal tax identification number is required to receive premiums for each 4-H exhibitor.
4. All 4-H Cloverville entries (except small animals and livestock) will be registered electronically by the August 5, deadline. Instructions and web address will be provided to the Kentucky County Cooperative Extension Service in which the 4-H member is enrolled. Late registrations will not be accepted unless the county in which the 4-H member is enrolled county fair is after the August 5 deadline.
5. Deadlines 
   1. 4-H Rabbits: July 9, 2026
   2. 4-H Poultry Showmanship: July 9, 2026
6. Livestock entry forms must be signed or verified by the respective 4-H members’ Cooperative Extension Agent that is supervising the 4-H project. The signature verifies that the 4-H project and the 4-H member are eligible. Entries will NOT be accepted if entry forms are not signed by the extension agent responsible for 4-H or the entry forms are missing information. For online entries ONLY, the Kentucky State Fair Entry Department will verify that youth for corresponding entries are eligible to participate in the 4-H/FFA Youth Livestock Show. The County Extension Agent from the County 4-H listed will be contacted by the Kentucky State Fair Entry Department.
7. A 4-H computer generated identification card (4LO-11SO) is to be securely attached to items exhibited in Cloverville. Firmly attach the card. Neatly secure with tape or punch a hole in the corner of the tag and attach with string or a rubber band. Place the tag in a location which is to be seen by the public once the item is placed or displayed (or follow specific department guidelines).
8. Neither the State Fair nor the State 4-H Office will be responsible for any loss or damage to the exhibit or injury to the exhibitor or to the spectators. However, reasonable care will be used to prevent loss or injury.
9. All entries must meet minimum standards to receive a ribbon. Exhibitors unfit for show or of such low standards to make questionable their right to compete will be declared ineligible, and no premium will be awarded. All entries must be identified with labels securely attached. (Items with more than one piece should be identified in detail on the back of the ID card, i.e. color, number of pieces, description. Label each piece with name and county).
10. The Danish System of judging will be used with the top entry in each classdesignated. There are no additional premiums paid for class, grand, or reserve champion. All premiums are mailed directly to the 4-Her from the state fair.
11. All times stated are times in effect in Louisville for Eastern Standard Time.
12. The above rules apply to all 4-H exhibits, events, and activities. In addition, rules specified in each division also apply to that division.
13. Cloverbuds are not eligible to enter or showcase items in Cloverville. There are no Cloverbud classes in the rabbit division. Cloverbuds may only enter non-competitive classes as outlined in the class descriptions of those permitting youth under the age of 9 years to participate.
14. Exhibits will be judged as entered. Once exhibits are entered in Cloverville, they may not be removed, repaired, or altered in any way to enhance the award outcome.
15. Premiums not used in 4-H work may be used for expenses for state champion senior judging teams to national contests. Premiums not used in one department of 4-H may be transferred to other 4-H Departments subject to the approval of state fair officials.
16. The decision of the judge is final.
17. All exhibits in Cloverville will be received by the Cooperative Extension Staff on Monday preceding the opening day of the Kentucky State Fair before 1 pm EST.
18. Exhibits will not be released before 7 am EST on the Monday after the state fair closes.
19. Neither the Kentucky 4-H Youth Development Office nor the Kentucky State Fair Exposition Center or staff will assume responsibility for entries left on the premises after 12 pm EST on the Monday after the state fair closes.
20. Requirement for each class as well as the number of entries in each class allowable per county is specified in each division and class description.
21. No project shall be entered in two different classes.
22. The 4-H participant shall enter the class that corresponds to their correct project year.
23. A 4-Her enrolled in garden projects, field projects, fruits, and honey, is eligible to enter exhibits in the junior or open division classes. Open class entries are made through the Kentucky State Fair Entry Department in their online entry system.

1. Both junior and senior 4-H members may participate in judging competitions and events.
   1. Junior 4-H members should have passed their 9th birthday as of January 1 of the currentyear and shall not have passed their 14th birthday as of January 1 of the current program year.
   2. Senior 4-H members should have passed their 14th birthday as of January 1 of the current year and shall not have passed their 19th birthday of the current program year
2. The following statements apply to judging eligibility:
   1. Any 4-H member who has represented Kentucky 4-H at a national 4-H judging event isineligible for participation.
   2. A junior division winner may compete again in the same judging event. 
   3. A 4-H member may represent Kentucky 4-H on only one out of state judging team in the calendar year.
   4. No conferring by participants among themselves or with anyone else except the contest superintendent while the event is being held.
   5. Only authorized adults will be permitted in the judging ring or area during events.

Attention 4-H and Youth Development Agents, FFA Teachers of Agriculture, Parents, 4-H and FFA Members

Cloverville and FFA non-livestock entries must be made through the online system by agents and teachers. For 2026, the complete text of 4-H Cloverville rules and classes will be found at www.kystatefair.org. That information is not included in this premium list. FFA teachers of agriculture will find the FFA non-livestock section on that site as well. The Tobacco Department file is also available on that site for your convenience in making 4-H and FFA entries.

Open show information and the 4-H/FFA livestock sections are still included in this booklet and are also available online at www.kystatefair.org.

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to 4-H exhibits listed previously in this catalog.
2. All classes are from Portfolio Pathways (Section A), Sketchbook Crossroads (Section B), and Getting Started in Art 4-H Core Curriculum except for Trends and Heritage Arts. Additional teaching resources can be found in 4-H Create Art Now (Univ. of Idaho), Exploring Fiber Arts (Illinois Extension), and Seeing Through Graphic Design (Ohio State Univ).
3. Junior: Any member aged 9-13. Senior: Any member aged 14-19.
4. Seniors must submit an artist statement. Juniors are ONLY required to submit an artist statement for Heritage Arts categories. See the attached artist statement worksheet. This can be attached to the back of the item.
5. A county is limited to one entry per class. Each Exhibitor may enter only two (2) classes per sections A, B, and C per year. This is a maximum of 6 per year. 
6. All items must have been made since the last State Fair.
7. Tags (4LO-11SO) must be attached to the lower right front corner of paintings, drawings, etc. For other exhibits, neatly secure the ID card where it can be seen by the public with tape, or punch a hole in the corner of the tag and attach it with a string or rubber band. For items with more than one piece, a description on the back of the ID card is suggested with the number of pieces, color, etc. In addition, label each item in an inconspicuous location; include a minimum of name and county (clothing label 4LO-12SO may be utilized).
8. Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
9. Appropriate hangers for the project are hardware permanently attached to the project that can be displayed on metal grid work walls via a metal S hook, binder clip, or zip tie. ***NOTE: mat board and canvas can be displayed utilizing binder clips. We will have binder clips available at check-in for you.
10. Some classes have specific size requirements, for all others, the maximum size is 30”x30” 
11. Frames with glass are not permitted. 
12. Subject matter must be “family-friendly” in context. 
13. Small items, which are easily separated or destroyed, may be placed in small plastic bags. 
14. Reserve and Grand Champion will be selected from class champions in both the junior and
    senior categories.

SECTION A: Portfolio Pathways

Painting

Printing

Graphic Design

Section B: Sketchbook Crossroads

Drawing

Fiber Arts

Sculpting

Section C: Art Trends and Heritage Arts

This section will highlight the latest trends in art while honoring our heritage. Documentation of the Heritage Arts Classes in the artist statement is REQUIRED for both Junior and Senior Classes! If required documentation is not attached the item will be disqualified. You may enter two entries per year in this section.

Trends

Heritage Arts

According to various sources, heritage can refer to practices or characteristics that are passed down through the years, from one generation to the next. Kentucky 4-H believes in celebrating one’s heritage through recognition of art that may be representative of one’s culture. Examples may include: baskets, brooms, wood carvings, metal art, mini barn quilts, etc.

1. Review the general rules for all 4-H exhibitors, as well as the guidelines for non-livestock exhibits provided earlier in this catalog. Each project entry must meet all class requirements; entries that do not comply will be disqualified.
2. There is a Junior and Senior age division. A 4-H member who has previously been named class champion in their age division is not eligible to compete in that same class again within the same age division.
3. Refer to the class description to determine whether the crop must have been grown during the current year or previous year.
4. Samples should not be chemically sprayed within 2 weeks of the sample being collected. Exhibits entered with chemical residue will be disqualified and disposed of.
5. Grain samples must be of good quality and free from foreign matter. The Superintendent has the authority to refuse any and all entries due to excess chaff, rodent pellets, mold, musty, foreign materials, or anything that makes it unsuitable for display. 
6. Grain is to be brought in a clear glass quart-size jar with lid (such as a glass canning jar). Grain and containers will be returned to the county. Exhibitors must use the identification label provided at the end of this document for each entry. For grain entries, the label should be securely taped to the outside of the glass jar.
7. Hay will be judged on Monday as it comes into Cloverville. Bring ½ hay bale securely bound with cord or twine. Place ½ hay bale in a large double strength garbage bag. Exhibitors must use the identification label provided at the end of this document for each entry. Identification labels must be attached to the bale and not the bags. Print labels on cardstock with a hole punched in the corner and attached using rubber bands to the bale.
8. Legume hay shall consist of 85% if the class designed legume. Grass hay shall be 85% of the class-designed grass. Mixed hay should contain only one eligible grass and one eligible legume. The legume component shall be at least 30 percent alfalfa and not more than 70% legume. Eligible legumes are alfalfa, red clover, and ladino clover. Eligible grasses are timothy, Bermuda grass, orchard grass, tall fescue and rye grass.
9. Hay will be returned to your county. 
10. The field corn and popcorn will be exhibited in trays provided by the State Fair. Exhibitors must use the identification label provided at the end of this document for each entry. 
11. Roots of soybeans must be washed.
12. Each county may have one entry per class. Exhibitor is limited to 1 entry per class. Exhibitor is not limited to number of classes entered.

LEGUME HAY

GRASS HAY

MIXED HAY

YELLOW CORN

WHITE CORN

POPCORN

FIELD SOYBEANS (Oil)

GRAIN SORGHUM (Milo)

SWEET SORGHU

WHEAT (Soft, Red, Winter)

Revised 9/2025

Identification Labels

View printable Crop ID Tags

1. Poster Submissions: All submissions must use 20” X 30” foam core board or cardboard, turned in a vertical direction.
2. Number of Entries Permitted:
   1. County may submit two entries per class.
   2. A member may enter only one class in the Financial Education Division.
3. General Rules:
   1. See “General Rules Applying to All 4-H Exhibitors in the Kentucky State Fair” at www.kystatefair.org. Click on “Competition”, then “Premium Book”, then “4-H Exhibits.”
   2. Item must meet all requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
   3. Items entered must have been completed by the exhibitor within the current program year.
   4. The decision of the judges is final.
4. Unique Rules or Instructions:
   1. Create a poster on 20” wide x 30” high foam core board or sturdy cardboard (turned in a vertical direction).
   2. The use of a pencil on the front of the poster is discouraged.
   3. Judging criteria will be based on theme, poster design (lettering, attractiveness, how well it conveys a message), and narrative.

   4. Information for the following classes can be found in the 4-H Consumer Savvy project manuals—

      The Consumer in Me, Consumer Wise, and Consumer Roadmap, Be the E: Entrepreneurship, and Financial Champions

   5. Posters that do not include the narrative or do not conform to the topics specified in the class description will not be judged.
5. Additional Documentation Required: Every class in this division requires a narrative. 
6. Labeling:  Identification Card (4LO-11SO): Attach the Identification Card securely to the front of the poster, in the bottom right corner. It must not protrude beyond the edge of the poster.                       
7. Entry Instructions: The county Extension staff enters All exhibits through the State Fair’s electronic submission system.
8. Awards:
   1. Each entry that meets class requirements will receive a ribbon.
   2. A champion will be named in each class.
   3. An overall grand champion and a reserve champion will be selected for the division.

Level 1: The Consumer in Me

Level 2: Consumer Wise

Level 3 : Consumer Roadmap

Entrepreneurship 

Financial Management 

Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, entry will be disqualified.

1. County Agents will register hams at Ham Check-in.
2. All participants are to report to the State Fair and Exposition Center in the South Wing Section for Ham Day Registration. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. EST. Registration times for each county will vary – the participants’ county 4-H agent will provide them with the exact time that they can register.
3. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to 4-H demonstrations and judging events. All participants must be registered electronically through the State Fair Entry Department by the deadline. A copy of the contract and registration for the hams should be sent to: Dr. Gregg Rentfrow, University of Kentucky, Animal Science Department, 205 Garrigus Bldg., Lexington, KY 40546-0215 by TBA.
4. There is no limit to the number of youth who may participate from a county.
5. All youth must exhibit one country ham at the Kentucky State Fair. Any youth disregarding this rule will forfeit the ham, entry fee, and all awards associated within the guidelines. All forfeited hams will go to the University of Kentucky Meat Program for distribution.
6. All youth must participate in a presentation on the appropriate topic. Presentations must be between 3 to 5 minutes in length at the State Contest. Junior (9-13 years of age), Senior (14 – 18 years of age). 
7. A one-time penalty of two points will be subtracted from the speaker’s total score for time errors (under/over time). Seniors who fail to give at least a 2-minute speech will forfeit their ham.
8. No visual aids will be used during presentation. Costumes and posters are considered visual aids.
9. The use of notes are optional. Points will not be added or subtracted for the use of notes unless the speaker uses them in a distracting manner.
10. Class champions in the Junior and Senior Division will be considered for Overall Grand Champion and Reserve Champion in each level. Grand and Reserve Champions will be determined by the combination of the two highest scores from the 4-Hers Presentation (60%) and ham (40%) through a “Call Back” process.
11. There will not be any premiums for this division.
12. Class ages are 4-H age (NOT current age at time of State Fair) 

Junior Division 

Senior Division

Awards are sponsored by the Kentucky Ham Producers Association and the Kentucky Commissioner of Agriculture.

Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, entry will be disqualified.

1. See General State Fair Rules applying to all 4-H Exhibitors and General Rules applying to 4-H judging events. All participants must be registered electronically through the State Fair Department by the August deadline.
2. Educational posters MUST relate to dogs or rabbits, and be completed since the last State Fair. Poster must be judged at the county level before entry at the State Fair. Only one entry per class per county is allowed (county winner must have received at least a blue ribbon at the county level before entered at the state fair level).
3. Posters should encourage the participant’s imagination in developing a slogan/theme that promotes a breed or project or educates the viewer about a dog or rabbit project related activity. Examples of topics include but are not limited to: showing/grooming/caring for your animal, health, nutrition, breed characteristics, etc. Posters should be simple and focus on one message to tell the story of your poster theme. (See specific classes in #12)
4. Copyrighted characters such as Snoopy, Charlie Brown, or other cartoon characters cannot be used.
5. Resource information should be attached to the back of the poster (information may be in an envelope with youth name, county, and class). Reliable resource information should be used (please note that Wikipedia may not be a reliable source). The poster will lose points if resource information is not included on the back.
6. Participants may use a variety of media, however no 3-dimensional posters.(Media cannot protrude more than ½” inch from the front of the board) no text cut directly from a magazine will be allowed (such as a cut-out of a magazine article used for the poster).
7. Posters must be no smaller than 20 inches x 30 inches and no larger than 24 inches x 30 inches. Posters must be made using one of the following: matt board or foam core board
8. An electronic label should be affixed to the lower right corner of the poster. Poster content should allow for display of the electronic label in the bottom right corner of poster, approximate size of a 3 inch x 5 inch card. On the back of the poster include youth name, county, class.
9. Posters will be judged on how well they present information and on their general appearance.
10. Class champion ribbons will be presented. All participants will receive ribbons and premiums. One overall Grand and Reserve will be chosen from the Junior and Senior entries.
11. There is no Cloverbud poster class.
12. Classes include:
    1. Junior (age 9-13) Classes: 543A – General Dog; 543B Dog Breed; 543C General Rabbit; 543D Rabbit Breed
    2. Senior (age 14-19) Classes: 544A – General Dog; 544B Dog Breed; 544C General Rabbit; 544D Rabbit Breed 

Ribbons: Blue: 100-75 points; Red: 74-50 points; White: 49 and below

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to all 4-H exhibits other than livestock.
2. Exhibits must be made based on the appropriate units in the 4-HCCS Electric Excitement project books. Projects entered using Snap Circuits® kits will be disqualified.
3. One exhibit per county per class. Exhibitor is limited to one entry in the 4-H Electric division.
4. All exhibits requiring bulbs must have the correct size.
5. Use of molded plug-ins is not prohibited but discouraged.
6. Any electric project observed or judged to be unsafe or potentially harmful to the public or surrounds will be disqualified immediately and disabled for further use.
7. Effective strain relief should be provided for all wire to terminal connections. Knots, clamps, connectors, or staples are acceptable when used appropriately.
8. A class champion will be selected for each individual class and one Grand and one Reserve Champion rosette selected from the entire exhibit.
9. 4-H electric exhibits will be divided into the following classes:

Magic Of Electricity (4HCCS BU-06848) 

All exhibits must be DC powered.

Investigating Electricity (4HCCS BU-06849)

All exhibits must be DC Powered.

Wired For Power (4HCCS BU-06850) 

All exhibits must be AC powered and be able to be safely connected and disconnected from a standard 120-Volt duplex outlet.

Entering Electronics 

Exhibits may be either DC or AC powered. AC powered exhibits must be able to be safely connected and disconnected from a standard 120-volt duplex outlet.

Green Energy

See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and 4-H exhibits other than livestock listed previously in this catalog. 

Each county may have one entry per class.  An exhibitor may enter only one class in Entomology and no more than two entries in Honey (one extracted, one chunk).

Entomology

Pinned-Insect Exhibits

Classes included: 687A, 688A, 689A, 690A, and 691A.

1. Folding cardboard insect-collection boxes available through University of Kentucky (Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment Department of Entomology) should be used. Homemade or purchased cardboard or wooden exhibit boxes may be used instead, but must have protective lids that can easily be opened and that don’t damage the specimens inside. They must be approximately 9 inches by 12 inches* (cardboard) or 18 inches x 24 inches (wooden) and approximately 3 ½ inches thick. All boxes must have foam bottoms (such as 8 millimeter or 3/8 inch thick EVA foam available at hobby shops). Wooden boxes should have Plexiglas or glass covers and boxes must be easily opened (for instance; if a screw is used to secure Plexiglas tops, use a thumbscrew fastener instead of a fastener that requires a tool). (*For cardboard boxes, any size with a footprint about the size of a standard sheet of printer paper or a little larger is acceptable.)
2. Specimens are to be arranged so the box can be exhibited horizontally. 4-Hers may attach wires to the back of wooden boxes to help make them easier to display.
3. Identification labels available from your County Extension Office must be used, or custom labels may be printed if they conform exactly to the font, font size, and font color of the official labels. Labels should be printed onto white cardstock. The exhibit identification card should be placed on the front of the box (each box). Instructions for pinning and labeling are included in your project literature.
4. One half of the specimens may be from the previous year's collection or from anywhere in the United States; one half or more must be Kentucky insects collected since the last Kentucky State Fair. No insects that were originally collected from countries outside of the United States will be judged.
5. For the first through fifth year projects, a display collection catalog must be in an envelope attached to the back of the display box. Envelopes should be attached to permit their being opened easily to remove catalogue from them without moving the exhibit.
6. Most specimens in the display cases should be pinned, and the use of vials is discouraged. If vials are used, they may account for no more than 2% of a collection. Vials must be securely wired or pinned to the pinning bottoms.
7. The inclusion of non-insect specimens (spiders, e.g.) is encouraged, but because this is primarily an insect collection, and because non-insects do not preserve well on insect pins, points will be deducted if there are more than one specimen from each non-insect class.
8. Pinned entomology exhibits are judged on the following categories: Orders, Species, Common Names, Labels, Condition of Specimens, Overall Appearance, Life Cycle Representation, Catalog of Specimens. Check with county 4-H Agent for point distribution on score sheet.
9.  Exhibits will be penalized if they do not:
   1. Use insect pins for pinning insects.
   2. Use the 4-H entomology identification labels.
   3. Use display boxes that are approximately 9 inches x 12 inches x 3½ inches cardboard boxes or wooden boxes that are approximately 18 inches x 24 inches x 3 ½ inches. 
   4. Fulfill the requirements of the particular exhibit under which it is entered.
   5. Have the insects arranged so the box can be exhibited horizontally.
   6. Have the display collection catalogue in an envelope attached to the back of the display box through fifth year projects.
10. No extra credit will be given for specimens exhibited beyond the numbers listed in the current project books.
11. 4-Hers entering fifth year cannot use the same exhibit that has been judged in any previous State Fair.

Insect Photography Exhibits

Classes included: 687B, 688B, 689B, 690B, 691B.

1. Images will be submitted on a USB memory device (such as a “thumb drive”) with no other data except for the images and folders. The USB device must be identified externally with a tag or label, showing “4-Her’s last name-County-Lot Number-Class Number-Entry Number”. The single root folder will be labeled with the same information. Images will be contained inside this folder. Example folder name: Doe-Fayette-6026-687a-24531
2. Each image will be .jpg format, 1920 X 1080 pixels. Vertical or horizontal black bars may be present to allow for cropped images.
3. Each image will have a filename that matches the following: “lastname-county-#.jpg” where “#” indicates the number of the image inside the folder. Example filename: Doe-Fayette-1.jpg

4. Each image will include a 400 X 225 pixel (or larger if necessary) white notation box with important information about the photo. This notation field may be placed anywhere inside the image, including inside black bars (if present). Fonts may vary based on the 4-Her’s software, but we recommend Ariel, 18 pt, black, non-bold. The notation field will include the following information, with one space between each line:

   [4-Her’s Name, County, Lot Number, Class Number]

   [Date of original photograph]/[Location of original photograph. Location may be in the form of a street/city/zip code address or GPS coordinates.]

   [Brand and type of camera or camera phone]

   [Settings, including type of lens, relevant camera settings, and “flash” or “no flash”]

   [Insect Order – Common Name] 

5. First year entomology photography exhibits are judged on the following categories: Orders, Species, Common Names, Labels, Quality of Photograph. Check with county 4-H Agent for point distribution on score sheet.
6. Digital insect collections will be penalized if they:
   1. Consist of images that were created by someone other than the 4-Her
   2. Are not submitted and labeled according to guidelines
7. No extra credit will be given for photographs submitted beyond the numbers listed in the current project books

4-H Entomology Pinned and Photography Exhibits Classes

Honey

Honey will show better in oval, flat sided to square clear glass jars. 4-Hers must use standard honey jars purchased from a bee supply vendor. Wide-mouth honey jars may be used. Note that jars must be glass, with the exception being the cut comb honey. Keeping your honey jar clean is very important! Make sure the lid and jar are clean with no sticky spots or smudges. Fill jars to the “fill line”. The "fill line" is the continuous ring that circles the jar and not necessarily the threads that help hold the lid. Do not use tape to attach the state fair entry tag (rubber bands are a great option). No other labels except for the state fair entry tag are allowed. Your honey should be clear (not cloudy), free of crystals, free of foam or bubbles, and free of any pieces or stuff floating inside. The color of your honey should be even and match across all jars you enter.

We recommend wearing white gloves when handling your jars to help keep them clean and free of fingerprints. 

Two jars must be submitted for the following classes: 692-696. 

Display cases for capped honey may be made by 4-Hers or bought from a store, but they must be bee-proof and have a removable top in order for the judge to check moisture. One frame per container.

Note: The total weight of a one-pound jar includes the weight of the glass jar. 

A Grand Champion and Reserve Champion will be selected for the Entomology Division and also for the Honey Division.

1. Number of Entries Permitted
   1. A county may submit ONE entry per class.
   2. A member may enter up to 3 classes in the food division. (This means: a member’s name could appear up to 3 times on the county’s food division invoice.)
2. General Rules
   1. General Rules Applying to All 4-H Exhibitors in the Kentucky State Fair must be met.
   2. Item must meet all requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
   3. Items entered must have been completed by the exhibitor within the current program year.
   4. The decision of the judges is final.
3. Unique Rules or Instructions
   1. Recipes: Entries are to be made using recipes specified in the class description. All recipes can be found in the 4-H Fair Recipe Book--Food in the 4-H Cooking 101-401 Series or contact your county Extension agent for 4-H YD.
   2. Curriculum for the 4-H Foods Divisions are the following: 4-H Cooking 101 – 401 Series and 4-H Cake Decorating. 
   3. Place the baked product on a disposable plate. Place the plate inside a re-closable zip-type bag to maintain freshness and prevent damage. (Exhibit will not be disqualified if the plate is not inside the bag.
   4. Use of plastic film or aluminum foil to wrap product is discouraged but will not cause the product to be disqualified.
   5. To prevent damage, wrapped cakes should be transported in a sturdy container such as a cardboard box. Containers, pie pans, etc. will NOT be returned to the exhibitor.
   6. It is preferred for cakes to use a cake form. However real sponge cakes that are decorated can be used as well. All real cakes will be discarded.
4. Additional Documentation Required: Master Cake Decorating requires an additional narrative on the original design. 
5. Labeling
   1. Identification Card (4LO-11SO): The State Fair Entry system will generate this label. Attach the label securely to the outside wrapper of each food entry.
6. Entry Instructions: All exhibits are entered through the State Fair’s electronic submission system by CES Extension staff.
7. Awards
   1. Each entry that meets class requirements will receive a ribbon.
   2. A class champion will be named in each class.
   3. An overall grand champion and a reserve champion will be selected.
8. All recipes are located in the 4-H Fair Recipe Book--Food and also in the publication identified in the class description.
9. Class Descriptions: 4-H food entries will be divided into the following levels and classes:

Muffins

Biscuits

Quick Breads

Cookies

Cakes

Pies

Yeast Bread

Bread made in a Bread Machines

Candy

Adapted Food

Cake Decorating

Reference curriculum

Judging in this division is based upon cake quality and decoration. Cakes must be real but may be any flavor. Cakes will not be returned. Styrofoam cakes will be disqualified. 

1. Classes in Division: 861-865.
2. Number of Entries Permitted
   1. County may submit ONE entry per class.
   2. A member may enter Three classes in the Food Preservation division. (This means: a member’s name could appear three times on the county’s Food Preservation Division invoice sheet.)
3. General Rules
   1. See “General Rules Applying to All 4-H Exhibitors in the Kentucky State Fair” 
   2. Items must meet all requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
   3. Items entered must have been completed by the exhibitor within the current program year.
   4. The decision of the judges is final.
4. Unique Rules or Instructions
   1. Recipes: Entries are to be made using recipes found in the 4-H Fair Recipe Book—Food Preservation or contact your county Extension agent for 4-H YD.
   2. Canned entries must be prepared from raw produce.
   3. Re-canning of commercially processed foods is not permitted.
   4. Helpful Information for the following classes can be found on the National Center for Home Food Preservation website.
   5. Jars not processed by the correct method will not be judged. Open kettle processing is not acceptable for any product.
   6. Jars must be clear, clean STANDARD jars specifically designed for home canning. If mayonnaise or similar non-standard jars are used, the product will not be judged.
   7. Two-piece screw bands and lids specifically designed for home canning should be left on containers.
   8. If judges open the jar for judging purposes do NOT eat contents of containers upon return.
5. Additional Documentation Required
   1. See labeling instructions below and in class description.
6. Labeling
   1. All entries: Will have 2 labels. Attach both securely to the outside of the container.
      1. Identification card (4LO-11SO): The State Fair Entry system will generate this label.
      2. Preserved food label: Use the 4-H Food Preservation labels. Fill out the label completely.
7. Entry Instructions: All exhibits are entered through the State Fair’s electronic submission system by the county Extension staff.
8. Awards
   1. Each entry that meets class requirements will receive a ribbon.
   2. A champion will be named in each class.
   3. An overall grand champion and a reserve champion will be selected.
9. Class Descriptions: 4-H Food Preservation entries will be divided into the following levels and classes:

Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.

1. See general rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to all exhibits other than livestock listed in the State Fair catalog.
2. Only one entry per 4-H member permitted in the Forestry Division.
3. One entry per county for each category.
4. Exhibitors are not to exceed the number of specimens listed for each class. If an exhibitor exceeds these numbers, the entry will be judged for blue, red and white ribbons, but will not be considered for top awards. If exhibit contains less than the correct number, it will be disqualified.

First Year

Second Year

Third Year and Over

Kentucky Geological Survey provides consultation for this division. 

Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry may be disqualified. County agents should make sure that 4-H collections meet these requirements.

1. See general rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to all exhibits other than livestock listed previously in this catalog.
2. Only one entry per 4-H member permitted in the Geology Division.
3. Only one entry per county per project year.
4. 4LO-11S0 Identification Card should be securely attached to the lower right-hand corner of the front of the box.
5. Participants may use wooden, cardboard, or plastic display boxes. While we strongly encourage boxes to meet the specifications below to ensure they fit properly in State Fair display cases, we understand that exact dimensions may not always be possible due to availability or accessibility. Boxes that do not meet these specifications will still be permitted, but may not fit the display cases.

Preferred Dimensions

• Vertical height: 14 to 17 inches
• Horizontal width: 16 to 24 inches
• Depth: No more than 4 inches

Additional Recommendations

• Boxes should have a removable acrylic cover (e.g., Plexiglass) for judging access.
• Hinges and locks should be flush-mounted and placed on the sides or top to ensure the box sits level.

6. Ideally, each exhibit must be secured with a lock. Attach a key to the box with your name and county firmly attached to the key. Key will be returned to 4-H agent.  Keep another key in case the state fair key is misplaced. (Note: if a cardboard or plastic box is used and the 4-Her is unable to attach a lock, the exhibitor enters the collection at their own risk – meaning the state fair and Kentucky 4-H Program are not responsible for stolen or lost items or specimens.)
7. If fabric is used, use a fabric glue to adhere entire piece of fabric to box. Suggested fabrics are felt or velveteen. 
8. Rocks, minerals, and fossils should be firmly attached to the box. See Rule 12 for label information. 
9. Boxes will be displayed on their side, not flat.  Therefore, larger specimens must be attached near the lower portion of the box.
10. Rock, Mineral, and Fossil Identification Labels are available from the County Extension Agent for 4-H or the Kentucky Geological Survey (KGS) website. These are the only labels acceptable. 
11. Specimens that are polished may lose points. 
12. Exhibits may not be eligible for Class Champion if:
    1. Box contains too few or too many specimens
    2. Labels are not correctly filled out (see instructions and examples at the KGS website).
    3. Specimen is mounted jewelry
    4. The specimen is not clearly numbered on the label (the judge is unable to determine which specimen goes with which label). 
    5. Specimens are not arranged in numerical order
    6. Duplicate specimens are used to reach minimum number. However, varieties of the same rock or mineral are acceptable if the specimen is identified by a different name (such as quartz, smoky quartz, amethyst, agate, chert, flint or calcite, Iceland spar, aragonite, travertine). Also, it is acceptable if the duplicate specimen has an adjective in front of the specimen (such as calcite, red calcite, or limestone, fossiliferous limestone, oolitic limestone). If each entry in that class has duplicate named specimens, then each entry may qualify for class champion, but will not be eligible for grand champion.
13. The following score card will be used to judge geology exhibits:
    1. Correct identification and labeling - 5 points for each specimen (Collections will be judged more favorably that have different types of specimens, rather than many different varieties of the same rock, mineral, or fossil; such as gray limestone, light gray limestone, dark gray limestone, or red calcite, blue calcite, green calcite).
    2. Cards/specimen: 1 point each that each specimen has the label completely filled out, along with specimen number.
    3. Found on site: Since this is an exercise in becoming familiar with rocks, minerals, and fossils, an extra 1 point will be given for specimens that are found rather than purchased or given as gifts. (Be sure to ask permission if you have to enter private property. The Internet is a good place to search for rock clubs and geological surveys of your and other states for information on collecting localities.)
    4. Neatness, arrangements, background - 20 points for total exhibit
14. Class champion will be selected in each class with a Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion selected from Class Champions.
15. 4-Hers entering fifth year and up cannot enter the same exhibit that has been judged in any previous State Fair.

Classes

For each of the classes, specimens may consist of rocks, minerals, and or fossils. There is a separate label for rocks, minerals, and/or fossils (three different labels). Label and label instructions are available at the Kentucky Geological Survey website.

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to 4-H exhibits listed previously in this catalog.
2. All items must have been made since the last State Fair. All participants must be registered electronically by the August deadline. Posters must have been judged at the county level before State Fair submission and must have received a blue ribbon to qualify.
3. Each exhibit must be properly labeled. Place ID tag (4LO-11SO) in the most visible place on the exhibit, preferably on the lower right-hand corner
4. Eligible topics and classes are derived from information contained in the approved 4-H curriculum: 
   1. Mental Health - Examples but not limited to Stress management, mindfulness, healthy coping, destigmatizing mental illness, emotional wellbeing. – a) GEM: Get Experience in Mindfulness, b) Your Feelings Matter, c) Youth Strong: Helping Youth and Families in Times of Disaster and Stress. 
   2. General Wellbeing (Non-Nutrition) – Examples but not limited to Healthy habits, hygiene, digital wellness, sleep health, balanced routines. a) Health Rocks (National 4-H Council)
   3. Personal Safety – Examples but not limited to Safe internet use, injury prevention, emergency preparedness, bullying prevention. a) Code Name: Home Alone, b) Be Internet Awesome, c) Inderland Game, d) Medicine: Science and Safety 
   4. Addiction Prevention - Examples but not limited to Avoiding substance misuse (tobacco, alcohol, vaping, drugs), peer pressure, brain health. a) Health Rocks (National 4-H Council)
   5. Physical Activity – a) 4-H Dancefit, b) SPARK After School, c) Outdoor Adventures, d) Soccer for Success, e) STEPS to a Healthy Teen 
5. Junior: Any member aged 9-13. Senior: Any member aged 14-19.
6. Posters must be educational and clearly relate to health and well-being topics listed under this division. Posters should encourage creativity and deliver a clear educational message about the chosen topic.
7. Posters should focus on one clear message. Creativity is encouraged — slogans, themes, and visuals should be youth-developed. Posters should educate, promote healthy behaviors in an age-appropriate way, and be family friendly in nature. 
8. Use of copyrighted or trademarked characters (e.g., SpongeBob, Disney, Marvel) is not allowed. Do not use images cut from magazines unless they are used as part of a collage¢, and no magazine articles should be pasted directly.
9. Posters must have reliable resource information attached to the back (in an envelope or taped securely), labeled with youth’s name, county, and class. Wikipedia is not considered a reliable source. Lack of cited sources will result in point deduction.
10. Poster Specifications: a) Size: 20"x30" to 24"x30", b) Format: Portrait (vertical), c) Material: Mat board or foam core board only. c) No poster board allowed. d) No 3D items or attachments, the poster must be no thicker then ½”. e) Leave space in the lower right corner for a 3"x5" electronic label.
11. Posters will be judged on: Educational value & accuracy, Creativity & originality, Clarity of message, Visual appeal & neatness, Proper formatting & source citation.
12. Awards: Class champion ribbons will be awarded. All participants will receive a ribbon. One overall Grand and Reserve will be chosen from Junior and Senior entries.
13. No Cloverbud Poster Class.

Mental Health

General Well-being (Non-Nutrition)

Personal Safety

Addiction Prevention

Physical Activity

1. Classes in Division: Classes 887-913
2. Number of Entries Permitted
   1. County may submit ONE entry per class.
   2. A member may enter up to two classes within ONE of the Units I through Advanced and one class in Changing Spaces in the Home Environment Division. (This means: a member’s name could appear a total of three times in Home Environment--up to two times in ONE of the “units” and one time in “Changing Spaces” on the county’s Home Environment Division invoice sheet.)
3. General Rules
   1. See “General Rules Applying to All 4-H Exhibitors in the Kentucky State Fair” at www.kystatefair.org. Click on “Competition,” then “Premium Book”, then “4-H Exhibits.”
   2. Item must meet all requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
   3. Items entered must have been completed by the exhibitor within the current program year.
   4. The decision of the judges is final.
4. Unique Rules or Instructions
   1. Exhibit must be in the unit in which the 4-Her is enrolled.
   2. Only those entries that are properly labeled and documented will be considered for class champion.
   3. Items normally hung on the wall, such as pictures and bulletin boards, must be ready to hang with appropriate hardware permanently attached. Items will be exhibited on a wall made of metal grids using S hooks, binder clips or zip ties. Entries mounted on mat or foam core board do not require hardware; they will be hung on the wall using binder clips.
   4. “Refinished” item refers to an item already in use which has been given a new finish using paint or some type of seal.
5. Additional Documentation Required
   1. The following classes require documentation: 894, 895, and 897-913. Read class description carefully.
   2. Write the member’s name, county, and class number on the front of the sheet, folder or notebook of documentation. Attach documentation to item with a safety pin or binder clip.
6. Labeling
   1. Identification Card (4LO-11SO): The State Fair Entry system will generate this label. Attach it in the most visible place on the exhibit, preferably on the lower right-hand corner. Labels may be securely taped, attached with a rubber band through a hole in the corner or safety pinned (fabric items). Do NOT use straight pins.
   2. Small label: To insure that all parts of the exhibit make it back to the county, “hide” a small label (with a minimum of the county name) on EVERY part that might become separated from others; these should not be visible to the public when displayed.
7. Entry Instructions: All exhibits are entered through the State Fair’s electronic submission system by the county Extension staff.
8. Awards
   1. Each entry that meets the class requirements will receive a ribbon.
   2. A champion will be named in each class.
   3. An overall grand champion and a reserve champion will be selected.
9. Class Descriptions: 4-H Home Environment entries may be made in the following classes:

Unit I EXHIBITS from Exploring Your Home Project Book

Unit II EXHIBITS from Living with Others Project Book

Unit III EXHIBITS From Where I Live Project Book

Unit IV EXHIBITS From In My Home Project Book

Unit Advanced: Self-Directed Project

The intent of the following classes is to give members an opportunity to put everything they have learned in Units I-IV of the home environment projects into practice.

CHANGING SPACES

A class of exhibits representing horticulture and plant science projects will be included in the Kentucky State Fair. Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified. Entries will be limited to one project per class from each county. Examples of acceptable exhibits are listed below. Plants, photographs or other visual aids are necessary for most projects. Classes will be governed by the following:

1. Exhibits will be judged on the quality of the primary (horticulture) project work.
2. All plants exhibited MUST have been grown by the 4-Her for at least 6 months. Exceptions will be made with terrariums, dish gardens, and annual and vegetable bucket gardens which may have been grown for a shorter period of time.
3. Items improperly entered will be disqualified.
4. Exhibits entered with pesticide residue will be disqualified and disposed of.
5. Care will be provided for all plants. However, because of low light, air conditioning, etc., no guarantee can be made that the plants will be returned in their original condition. Plants are entered at the risk of the exhibitor.
6. Vegetable entries should be fresh, with the label on top of exhibit. Do not stick toothpicks in produce.

Securely attach the 4-H Identification Card to the exhibit in a location which can be seen by the public once the item is placed or displayed.  Attach neatly with tape; punch a hole in the corner of the ID tag and attach with a string or rubber band; or attach card to a floral pick and insert in the pot.

Youth should NOT use garden soil in containers. Use well-drained, disease-free potting soil for all containers.

Plant Display

Youth should NOT use garden soil in containers. Use well-drained, disease-free potting media for all containers.

Vegetable Displays

4-Hers may also exhibit plates of vegetables. A white paper plate for vegetables must be supplied by the exhibitor. These vegetables will not be returned to the exhibitor.  

They will be judged as follows:

• 25% Condition
• 20% Quality
• 20% Uniformity
• 20% True-To Type
• 15% Size

Consult Exhibiting and Judging Vegetables (4AH-16PA) to learn the characteristics of these criteria.

Classes of vegetables will be limited to:

Largest Vegetable Displays

The largest vegetable may not be the highest quality, nevertheless, it is unique. The largest entry in each of the following classes will receive a class champion ribbon.

Monday, August 24, 2026; Check-in and Registration: 9:30 AM in Cloverville; Judging: 10:00 AM; Awards: 1:00 PM in Cloverville

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to 4-H demonstrations and judging events.
2. All individuals and teams must be registered electronically through the State Fair Entry Department by the deadline.
3. This event will follow the guidelines of the National Junior Horticultural Association Horticulture Contest.  NJHA web site:  www.njha.org/.            
4. There is a Junior and Senior division in this contest at the State Fair.
5. Individuals who have previously competed in any division of this contest at the national level (NJHA) are ineligible to compete in the 4-H division.
6. Senior age level individuals may participate at the National Event (NJHA) in the Open Division at their own expense if they meet the qualifications. 

Horticulture Contest Rules

1. Individuals do not have to qualify for participation in the Kentucky 4-H Horticulture Contest through an area/regional event to be eligible for participation. 
2. Age divisions: Junior Level (ages 9-13 years old as of January 1 of current year); Senior Level (ages 14-19 years old as of January 1 of current year) 
3. Junior-level 4-H participants: There is no limit on how many youth can participate from a county. For scoring, only the top four individual scores from each county will count toward the county team score. Any additional scores beyond the top four will not be included in the team total. 
4. Senior-level 4-H participants: There is no limit on how many youth can participate from a county. For scoring, only the top four individual scores from each county will count toward the county team score. Any additional scores beyond the top four will not be included in the team total. The top four individuals from the Champion county are eligible to participate in the National Contest. Youth not entered as part of a county team will not be eligible for team advancement to the National Event.
5. Contest will consist of the following five parts:

• Tree & Shrub Identification 20%
• Fruit & Nut Identification 20%
• Vegetable Identification 20%
• Flower and Houseplant Identification 20%
• Judging 20%

6. No clear clipboards are permitted.
7. There will be a 60-minute time limit.

Top Team Members will receive $500, payable to the Kentucky 4-H Foundation, which will be distributed by the Foundation to cover expenses related to National Junior Horticultural Association Contest.

Junior and Senior Division

Friday, August 21, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET

Division 6019 includes: 631 Junior Land Judging, 632 Senior Land Judging, 631A Junior Home Site Evaluation, and 632A Senior Home Site Evaluation.

1. The Land Judging Contest and Home Site Evaluation will run concurrently at the same location utilizing the same four sites. The contests are separate, but individuals and teams can compete in either the Land Judging Contest, the Home Site Evaluation, or both. Scorecards will be provided for each contest. Contestants will have adequate time to complete both contests. Participation in one contest at the national level does not preclude participation in the other contest at the national level.
2. Talking, sharing answers, and the use of electronic devices are strictly prohibited and will result in immediate disqualification from the contest.
3. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to 4-H demonstrations and judging events. (4-Hers who will be entering college this fall (current year) and those who are already in college cannot participate.)
4. All 4-H members planning to participate in the 4-H Land Judging and/or Home Site Evaluation contests should be pre-registered by their county 4-H agent through the State Fair and Exposition Center Entry Department by August 5. 
5. Location and directions to competition site will be sent to counties when available. All participants are to report back to Cloverville at the Kentucky State Fairgrounds for awards on the day of the contests. The exact time of the awards will be announced during the contest.

Monday, August 24, 2026

Check-in 1:00 p.m.

Event Begins 1:30 p.m.

Location - Parking Lot C Grass Area

1. Two entries per District in each of the divisions (Two Junior and Two Senior) are allowed.
2. Zero-turn radius mowers with gasoline engines will be used.
3. The event will include a written quiz with emphasis on safety and operation and driving skills test over a prescribed course.
4. In case of electrical storms, the driving part of this contest may be delayed up to a maximum of one hour. If at that time it is determined that cancellation is necessary, written test scores will determine placing. The driving part of this event will not be rescheduled on any other date. In the event of a tie in the Senior Division, the oldest 4-H'er will be selected.
5. The 4-H Lawn Tractor Operators Contest will be conducted according to the rules, driving course and score sheets as set forth in the 4-H guide, "Instructions for the Kentucky 4-H Lawn Tractor Event", (revised 2000/01 - available in County Extension Office). To drive in the contest the operator must be of sufficient physical size to safely operate all foot and hand controls from the operator’s seat.
6. As this event is held in an isolated area, participants should bring lawn chairs, tent canopies and something cool to drink. No water, soft drinks or food are available at the site of contest. Families should provide their own umbrellas and rainwear, if needed, during inclement weather.
7. All 4-H participants must be registered through the electronic entry system with the State Fair Entry Department by the deadline. Please refer to General Rules applying to 4-H exhibits listed previously in this catalog. No entries will be accepted on the day of the event.

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to all 4-H exhibits other than livestock.
2. Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
3. Appropriate hangers for project work are any hardware permanently attached to the project that can be displayed on a metal grid work walls via a metal S hook, binder clip, or zip tie.
4. Exhibits MUST correspond to:
   1. Any project or activity from the Leadership (Leadership Skills You Never Outgrow, iThrive Leadership U, Leadership Road Thrip, Ricochet: An Extreme 4-H Leadership Adventure) and/or Communications project books. 
   2. Only pages relevant to project, activity or club meeting are needed. Additional pages are allowed but will not be considered by the judges.
   3. The 4-H ID card (4LO-11SO) should be securely attached to the outside lower right corner of the outside cover. Inside, clearly indicate the pages that are to be judged. If the pages to be judged are not clearly marked then the last 2-4 pages of the book will be reviewed.
   4. THIS IS NOT A GENERAL SCRAPBOOKING CATEGORY: The scrapbook format is a method of recording the Leadership experiences of youth who participate in these project areas. Each scrapbook must represent a leadership-focused event, club meeting, or activity. This includes the use of photos and content that clearly show youth actively engaged in a leadership program or initiative. Scrapbooks that do not demonstrate a clearly stated correspondence to a Leadership activity will not be considered for judging or will receive a white ribbon.
5. Exhibitors must be registered electronically through the State Fair Entry Department by the August deadline.
6. One exhibit per county per class. Exhibits that do not meet the established criteria will not be considered for judging.
7. An exhibitor is limited to one set of record pages in each division for a total of three (3) entries.
8. Counties are limited to one (1) entry in the Club Scrapbook division.
9. Exhibit must be in an 8 ½” x 11” or 12” x 12’ notebook or scrapbook format. Format will allow a Leadership or Communication Portfolio to be developed and kept over multiple years.
10. Refer to the class entry to determine the required number of pages.
11. Photos should clearly address the theme or activity corresponding to the selected leadership project. Each photo should be explained with a 2-3 sentence journaling caption. One or two paragraphs of narrative explaining the project or activity should be included on the scrapbook pages. Clearly indicate pages to be judged. Additional pages beyond those required by the project will not be reviewed.
12. The Leadership Project should contain the following:
    1. 2 or more photos on each page;
    2. Each photo should be explained with captions (see #11);
    3. 1-2 paragraphs of narrative (see #11) on one of the pages;
    4. No additional pages of narrative are needed
13. Photos can be taken by the 4-Her or another person. The pictures should clearly address the Leadership or Communication project that is selected. Pictures may be cropped as desired.

14. Pages will be scored on: the organization of project (easy to follow and relevant to a Leadership Project), neatness, narrative content, caption content, photo content, and overall effectiveness of the project.

15. A class champion will be selected for each individual class. A grand champion will be selected from the Leadership entries.
16. Entries that do not meet the established criteria (see #10) may not be judged.

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to all 4-H exhibits other than livestock.
2. Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
3. Appropriate hangers for project work is any hardware permanently attached to the project that can be displayed on a metal grid work walls via metal S hook, binder clip, or zip tie.
4. Exhibits MUST correspond to
   1. Any project or activity from the Work Ready Life Skills Curriculum (Purdue Univ), Build Your Future (Michigan State), Kentucky 4-H Resume, Cover Letter, and Interview Lessons, and other KY 4-H Recommended Resources.
   2. Only pages relevant to project are needed. Additional pages are allowed but will not be considered by the judges.
   3. The 4-H ID card (4LO-11SO) should be securely attached to the outside lower right corner of the outside cover.
5. Exhibitors must be registered electronically through the State Fair Entry Department by the August deadline.
6. One exhibit per county per class. Exhibits that do not meet the established criteria will not be considered for judging.
7. An exhibitor is limited to one set of record pages in each division for a total of three (3) entries.
8. Refer to the class entry to determine the required number of pages.
9. Pages will be scored on: see description under instructions.
10. Entries that do not meet the established criteria may not be judged.

Unique Rules or Instructions

1. For Junior Division: Create poster on 20” wide x 30” high foam core board or sturdy cardboard (turned in a vertical direction).
2. The use of pencil on the front of the poster is discouraged.
3. Judging criteria will be based on theme, poster design (lettering, attractiveness, how well it conveys a message), and narrative.
4. Information for the class can be found in Kentucky 4-H Life and Work Readiness resources.
5. Posters that do not include the narrative or do not conform to the topics specified in the class description will not be judged.
6. For Senior Division: Resume should be placed in a document protector.
7. The 4-Her should create the personal information section and not use their actual information. This is for safety reasons.

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to all 4-H exhibits other than livestock.
2. Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
3. Appropriate hangers for project work are any hardware permanently attached to the project that can be displayed on a metal grid work walls via metal S hook, binder clip, or zip tie.
4. Exhibits MUST correspond to:
   1. Any project or activity from the Public Adventures (National 4-H), Voices Service Learning (National 4-H), and KY 4-H Civic Engagement and Service Recommended Resources.
   2. Only pages relevant to the project are needed. Additional pages are allowed but will not be considered by the judges.
   3. The 4-H ID card (4LO-11SO) should be securely attached to the outside lower right corner of the outside cover.
5. Exhibitors must be registered electronically through the State Fair Entry Department by the August deadline.
6. One exhibit per county per class. Exhibits that do not meet the established criteria will not be considered for judging.
7. An exhibitor is limited to one set of record pages in each division for a total of three (3) entries.
8. Refer to the class entry to determine the required number of pages.
9. Pages will be scored on: see specific guidelines below.
10. Entries that do not meet the established criteria may not be judged.

Unique Rules or Instructions

1. Create poster on 20” wide x 30” high foam core board or sturdy cardboard (turned in a vertical direction).
2. The use of pencil on the front of the poster is discouraged.
3. Judging criteria will be based on theme, poster design (lettering, attractiveness, how well it conveys a message), and narrative.
4. Information for the class can be found in Kentucky 4-H Civic Engagement and Service Curriculum.
5. Posters that do not include the narrative or do not conform to the topics specified in the class description will not be judged.

1. Classes in Division: Classes 813A—838 (40 classes) (classes are not restricted to specific ages)
2. Number of Entries Permitted
   1. County may submit ONE entry per class.
   2. Member may enter three classes per category (crochet, knitting, embroidery, and quilting) in the Needlework Division. (This means: a member’s name may appear three times under each category on the county’s Needlework Division invoice sheet.)
3. General Rules
   1. See “General Rules Applying to All 4-H Exhibitors in the Kentucky State Fair” at www.kystatefair.org. Click on “Compete,” then “Premium Book”, then “4-H Exhibits.”
   2. Item must meet all requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
   3. Items entered must have been completed by the exhibitor within the current program year.
   4. The decision of the judges is final.
4. Unique Rules or Instructions
   1. Items must be “handmade” by the 4-H member. Items knit with a knitting machine or loom are not permitted.
5. Additional Documentation Required
   1. If the pattern/instructions are not from the Kentucky 4-H Needlework Notebook, a copy of the pattern must be submitted with the exhibit. Label the pattern with entrant’s name and county and attach to exhibit. Attach to item with a safety pin or binder clip. Patterns will be returned in county packets.
6. Labeling
   1. Identification Card (4LO-11SO): The State Fair Entry system will generate this label. Safety pin the ID card to the outside of the item for public viewing.
   2. Small label: When the exhibit has multiple articles, safety pin a label with at least the county name to the inside of each article. Do not use straight pins. This label is needed in case multiple items become separated.
7. Entry Instructions: All exhibits are entered through the State Fair’s electronic submission system by the county Extension staff.
8. Awards
   1. Each entry that meets class requirements will receive a ribbon.
   2. A champion will be named in each class.
   3. An overall grand champion and a reserve champion will be selected.

Crochet

Hand Embroidery

All embroidery projects are to be a “finished” item (for example: the stitchery is framed or made into an item such as a pillow, wall hanging, pot holder, eyeglass holder, etc.) The embroidery design or slow stitched design can be created on a purchased item, such as a pillowcase, clothing, tote bag, purse, bib, or dishtowel. Items may be made from purchased kits that meet the individual project guidelines.

The sizes mentioned in the classes below (such as 5” X 7”) relate to the amount of stitching, not the size of the fabric, frame, or finished item.

One Type of Embroidery Stitch

Multiple Types of Embroidery Stitches

Charted Embroidery Using Large Cross or Snowflake Stitches

Punch Needle

Charted Embroidery Using Specialty Cloth

Embroidery Using Advanced Skills

Knitting

The objective is for youth to learn the skills involved in hand knitting with needles. Therefore, items made on a knitting loom or knitting machine are NOT to be entered and will not be judged.

Quilting

All projects are to follow these guidelines/requirements:

1. Quilt must contain 3 layers: top (hand or machine stitched,) batting, backing.
2. If edge finish is not described in the class description the following are accepted options:
   • Stitched and turned- Backing is placed right sides together with top, stitched and turned. Opening is sewn closed. No binding needed.
   • Self-binding-Backing is brought to the front, folded, and stitched to the quilt.
   • Applied binding- Separate binding applied with mitered corners.
   • Decorative stitched edge- optional for Class #856 and #857
3. Quilting – minimum 4” apart, unless otherwise indicated in class description using the following methods:
   • Hand tack
   • Hand quilt
   • Use domestic sewing machine quilt
   • No long arm or hooped embroidery quilting accepted
4. Size is listed by class with measurements of perimeter (total outer edge measurement.) Ex. 120” = 30” square or 25” x 35” rectangle – or any other combination of 120”. Can be smaller or larger as noted in class information.
5. Hanging sleeve or tabs are optional except in #846.

Tuesday, August 25, 2026, Check-in 1:00 pm EST

Event Starts 1:30 p.m.

Location – Parking Lot C – Grass Area

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H Exhibitors, 4-H demonstrations, and judging events.
2. Two District winners in each of the two divisions (two (2) Juniors and two (2) Seniors) are allowed.
3. As this event is held in an isolated area, families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, tent canopies and something cool to drink. No water, soft drinks or food are available at site of the contest. Families should provide their own umbrellas and rainwear, if needed, during inclement weather.
4. In case of electrical storms, the driving part of this contest may be delayed up to a maximum of two hours. If at that time it is determined that cancellation is necessary, placing will be determined by written test scores. The driving part of this event will not be rescheduled on any other date. In the event of a tie in the senior division, the oldest 4-H'er will be selected.
5. Participants must be age 12 as of January 1 of the current year.
6. All 4-H participants must be registered through the electronic entry with the State Fair Entry Department by the deadline. Please refer to the General Rules applying to 4-H exhibits listed previously in this catalog. No entries will be accepted on the day of the event.
7. The 4-H Tractor Operators Contest will be conducted according to the rules, driving course and score sheets as set forth in the 4-H guide “Instructions for the Kentucky 4-H Tractor Driving Contest”. To drive in the contest the participant must be of sufficient physical size to safely operate all foot and hand controls from the operator’s seat with the seatbelt fastened and properly adjusted.
8. The event consists of the following parts:

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to all 4-H exhibits other than livestock listed previously in this catalog.
2. Specifications for exhibits
   1. All general photography classes are taken from 4-H Photography Core Curriculum (i.e. Focus on Photography, Controlling the Image and Mastering Photography).Then the classes are organized into the Kentucky Core Curriculum.
   2. Each county may have one (1) entry per class in both general photography and horticulture photography. Only one entry per class per county.
   3. General photography: 4-Hers can enter 6 classes per year.
   4. Horticulture photography: a 4-Her may enter any of the classes in addition to general photography.
   5. All pictures must be made since the last State Fair.
   6. All classes (including Horticulture) WITH ONE PHOTOGRAPH MUST BE MOUNTED ON WHITE 10”x 16” MAT BOARD-available via order entry (no poster board or foam core board accepted). Single photographs are limited to up to a maximum size of 8”x 12”. Pictures cannot be framed or matted with colored mat board.
   7. All classes (including Horticulture) WITH MULTIPLE PHOTOGRAPHS (More than 1 photograph) MUST BE MOUNTED ON WHITE16” x 20” MAT BOARD (no poster board or foam core board accepted). Pictures cannot be framed or matted with colored mat board.
   8. Each picture must be mounted securely. Rubber cement or dry mounting tissue is recommended. Do not use photo mounting corners.
   9. Entries must use current identification tag securely mounted to front of the mat board in the Lower right corner. Note: Identification tag should NOT cover photo or hang over edge of the board.
   10. Photos (except horticulture classes) must include the following a description. The description must be typed, on white paper or label and placed on the back of the matboard. The description must include the following:
       • Class
       • Subject
       • Location
       • Equipment Used (Specific Camera, if a Point and Shoot Camera, cell phone photograph, or DSLR); If using Point and Shoot or DSLR camera, please list specific Lens, Tripod, Trigger Release, Lighting, etc…)
       • Skill Applied from 4-H Photography Curriculum [specific page from curricula guide should be listed]
   11. Absolutely nothing on front of mat board except photographs, and ID tag. Any other required materials are to be mounted on the back.
   12. If an entry does not fit class descriptions, it will be given a participation award.
3. Appropriate hangers for project work is any hardware permanently attached to the project that can be displayed on a metal grid work walls via metal S hook, binder clip, or zip tie. ***NOTE: mat board and canvas can be displayed utilizing binder clips.
4. Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
5. Photography will be judged on, but not limited to: Technical, impact, composition, creativity, presentation, and the ability of the picture to tell a story.

Natural Resources

Agriculture

Leadership

Family and Consumer Sciences

Science, Engineering, and Technology

Health

Communications and Expressive Arts

Kentucky 4- Horticulture Photography Contest

For the purposes of the Kentucky 4- Horticulture Photography Contest, only photographs representing the areas of Olericulture and Floriculture will be accepted.

NJHA Contest

Entries in the following classes may also participate in the National Junior Horticulture Association Photography Exhibition. It is the responsibility of the individual to submit all required entry forms and follow all rules set out by NJHA organization to participate. States are not limited in the number of entries. See web site for details: www.njha.org

Horticultural Photography Classes

A Grand and Reserve Champion will be selected from class champions in Horticulture Photography.

Friday, August 21, 2026

West Wing

Check-in at 7:30 AM, contest begins around 8:30 AM

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to 4-H demonstrations and judging events.
2. Awards will be presented in Cloverville at the completion of the Avian Bowl event.
3. The contest will consist of the following: Production (300 points), Market Poultry (500 points) and Market Eggs (300 points) with a perfect individual score of 1,100 total points. *In case of ties the number of 100's will be used to determine the winner. If still tied, the contestant with the largest number of the next highest score below 100 will win. If necessary, this method will continue in order of descending scores.
4. Starting in 2021 the poultry judging classes were modified. The revised poultry judging manual is available, free of charge, on the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference website.
5. Placing cards will be provided for all contestants. Each contestant will write his placing on the proper card and hand it to the monitor before shifting to the next class. Pencils and clipboards will NOT be provided. Each contestant is responsible for making sure they have a clipboard and pencil. They also need to write their name and county on each of the cards.
6. Ten minutes will be allowed for placing each class. A maximum of two minutes will be allowed for each contestant giving oral reasons on class B.
   1. Classes A and B: Past Egg Production and Oral Reasons (300 points) - Four hens per class will be judged for the level of past egg production. The hen that has laid the most eggs to date should be placed first. Hens should be handled in order to place the class. Contestants will give oral reasons on Class B. Ten minutes will be provided for contestants to prepare their oral reasons. Senior division contestants will not be allowed to use notes during oral reasons. Junior contestants may use notes, but seniors may not.
   2. Classes C and D: Ready-to-Cook Carcasses (200 points) - There will be one class of ten broiler carcasses and one class of ten roaster carcasses. Each individual carcass is to be classified A, B, C, or ‘No Grade’ according to U.S.D.A. Standards for R-T-C Poultry. Carcasses may not to be touched or handled, but the shackles used to hang the carcasses may be handled.
   3. Class E: Identification of ready-to-cook poultry parts (100 points) - There will be one class of ten chicken parts. Each part is to be identified and the number of the part written in the appropriate square in front of the part name. The ten parts will be selected from the 24 listed in the National Poultry Judging Manual section on parts. The parts may not be touched or handled.
   4. Class F: Grading of Ready-to-Cook parts (100 points) - There will be one class of ten poultry parts. Each of the parts will be placed on a plate. Each individual part is to be classified A, B, C, or ‘No Grade’ according to U.S.D.A. Standards for R-T-C Poultry Parts. Parts and plates may not to be touched or handled in any way.
   5. Class G: Evaluation of further processed chicken products (100 points) - There will be ten plates of breaded, boneless chicken products (patties, tenders, and/or nuggets) to be evaluated according to five possible types of defects. The products and plates may not be touched or handled in any way.
   6. Class H: Eggs, Exterior Quality (100 points) - One class of 20 shelled eggs are to be judged A, B, Dirty, or Loss based on shape, shell texture, shell cleanliness and the presence of cracks. Any color of eggshell can be used in the contest. The eggs will be placed on flats. Eggs and flats may not be handled in any way.
   7. Class J: Eggs, Interior quality (100 points) - One class of 20 white-shelled eggs are to be candled and classified individually as U.S.D.A. grade AA, A, B, or ‘Loss’ according to U.S.D.A. standards.
   8. Class L: Eggs, Broken-out quality (100 points) - One class of 20 eggs will be broken out onto plates and are to be classified as AA, A, B, or Loss according to U.S.D.A. standards. Eggs and plates may not be touched or handled in any way.

Friday, August 21, 2026

Location: Cloverville, West Hall Bowl Competition begins at 1PM

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H Exhibitors and general rules applying to 4-H demonstrations and judging events.
2. Awards will be presented in Cloverville 15-20 minutes after the conclusion of the event.
3. The National Avian Bowl Study Packet was revised in 2023. Please make sure your team has the 2023 version. All questions at the state event will come from the 2023 version. Only specific sections are used each year.  A list of the specific sections that the questions will be drawn are available. An ADA-compliant version of the 2023 version of the revised National Avian Bowl Manual will be available from Clemson University through a link posted on the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference website. A full printed version can be ordered from the Clemson University Bulletin Room. Both versions cost $15.
4. There will be Junior and Senior divisions in this event.
5. A team will consist of not less than two and not more than four members. Counties must have at least five participants to have two teams and at least 10 participants to have three teams.
6. A double elimination tournament style format will be followed. The event will continue until only one-team remains with less than two losses. A random draw prior to the competition will be used for placing teams on the official bracket form used to pair teams.
7. Each bowl match will consist of 9 questions. Questions will be in format suitable for bowl competition: definitions, spelling, fill-in the blank, and multiple-choice. Pictures and charts from the study manual may be used in question development. Incorrectly answered questions will be offered to the other team. Questions will be worth 5 points. For seniors, incorrect answers will be minus 5 points. To encourage juniors to answer questions, no points will be deducted for incorrectly answered questions in the junior division.
8. After a question is read, teams have 10 seconds to buzz in. Participants must be acknowledged before answering the question. The answer should start within 5 seconds of being acknowledged. There is a 5-point penalty for answering when not acknowledged by the moderator.
9. Ties will be broken: One (1) toss up question will be given to the tied participants until tie is broken.
10. A participant or coach has the privilege to ask for verification on an answer he/she feels is incorrect. "Time out" must be called before the next question is read. Decisions made by the judge are final. No participants will be allowed to confer during time out.
11. There will be no conferring by participants among themselves or with anyone else except for the moderator while the avian competition is in process. Participants giving or receiving answers from others will be excused from the event and not receive a ribbon.
12. Counties participating in the Avian Bowl competition need to indicate county teams in the description box on the online entry system. Example: Smith County – 1
13. Plaques will be awarded to the winning team in each division (i.e., Juniors and Seniors).
14. Scorekeepers will track individual performance and each individual participant will receive a blue, red, or white ribbon depending on their performance level.
15. The top four senior individuals will be given the opportunity to represent the state of Kentucky at the national contest held at the National 4-H Poultry and Egg Conference in Louisville, Kentucky the week before Thanksgiving. 
16. More information on the event.

Thursday, August 20, 2026

Location: Pavilion

Check-In: 8 AM – 10 AM; All participants must be present at 12:30 PM; Show begins at 1 PM 

1. See General State Fair Rules General rules applying to 4-H Club exhibitors and general rules applying to Livestock Exhibits. Poultry division has Junior and Senior classes.
2. New this year, ducks may also be entered into the showmanship contest in addition to chickens. The chickens should be indicated as standard or bantam size. Showmanship for all birds (standard chicken, bantam chicken, and duck divisions) run concurrently so each participant can only enter one bird in the contest.
3. 4-H poultry entries should be made electronically through the State Fair entry system by the July 10 deadline. NO ENTRY FEE IS REQUIRED. A copy of your health papers is required at check-in of the show, or the chickens will be blood tested on-site for Pullorum. Chickens or ducks showing symptoms of disease or illness, or having external parasites, will be quarantined and not allowed in the contest.
4. The state blood testers are present Wednesday evening (6-8 PM) if participants require early check in. They must arrive before the testers leave at 8 PM. If special accommodation is required, Dr. Jacquie Jacob (jacquie.jacob@uky.edu) should be contacted a head of time.
5. Thursday check-in will be 8 AM - 10 AM. Check-in will end at 10 AM. Any chicken or duck not checked in at that time will not be allowed to participate. 4-Hers are responsible for checking in their chicken or duck before Thursday at 10 AM. Anyone wishing to drop off a chicken or duck on Wednesday night must let Dr. Jacquie Jacob know so someone can be there to check-in the bird.
6. Exhibitors are limited to one chicken OR duck for showmanship. Showmanship for all birds (standard chicken, bantam chicken, and duck divisions) run concurrently so each participant can only enter one bird in the contest.
7. Participation order will be determined on the day of the contest at time of check-in. All participants must be present by 12:30 PM and the contest will start around 1 PM, depending on the availability of the judges.
8. Cages will be provided, with one chicken or duck per cage.
9. Per Kentucky State Fair suggested guidelines, no birds may be sold during the Kentucky State Fair.
10. Chickens and ducks may be removed after the show. Those with 4-H activities on Friday and needing to keep their chicken or duck at the fairgrounds overnight may do so, but all birds must be removed by 8 PM on Friday.
11. Chickens can be entered as either standard-sized (all breeds) or bantam-sized (all breeds) for both juniors and seniors. New this year, ducks may be entered for both junior and senior divisions.

The participants will be judged on showmanship. Showmanship includes knowledge of the parts of birds as well as the care and management of the bird. If the chicken or duck is a purebred, knowledge of the breed should also be known. The condition of the chicken or duck is also judged so it should be washed and cleaned prior to the contest. How well the chicken or duck is handled and posed is also important.

Awards will be given as soon as possible after the completion of the contest. It usually takes about 30 minutes to finalize the presentation order.

For more information on showmanship criteria.

Possible Entries - Choose 1 Only

Possible Awards

There must be at least 5 entries in the class for a Grand and Reserve Champion to be awarded. 

Friday, August 21, 2026

Check-In: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

4-H Rabbit Showmanship 10 AM

Show begins 11:00 AM

Location: Pavilion

1. See General State Fair Rules applying to 4-H Club exhibitors and general rules applying to livestock exhibits. Rabbit division does not have a novice class. 
2. 4-H rabbit and showmanship entries should be made electronically through the State Fair entry system by the July 10. NO ENTRY FEE IS REQUIRED.  Breed AND Tattoo # MUST be submitted with online entry (either in the identified field or the description line). Rabbit entries without a tattoo number indicated through the State Fair entry system will be disqualified.
3. Exhibitor MUST bring a copy of their registration information when checking in at the Kentucky State Fair. 
4. Health forms are not necessary but animals showing symptoms of disease or illness will be quarantined and not allowed to show. 
5. Exhibitors limited to seven rabbits for show. This includes a showmanship rabbit that may or may not be entered in the show. This rule will be strictly enforced. 

6. Cages must meet the following criteria. If cages do not meet this criteria rabbits will be disqualified from class champion. 

   1. Cage must confine rabbit for travel. 
   2. Cage must have 50% or more openings for air circulation. 
   3. Cage must be constructed to contain waste. 
   4. Cages must be constructed so rabbit does not sit in waste. 

   Specifically, the following cage types will be disqualified from class champion: bird cages, cardboard boxes, milk crates, aquariums, bushel baskets. If rabbits are staying overnight, per Jefferson County Chapter 91 law, they must be properly cooped. Coops will be available by requesting advanced cooping at time of entry.

7. No does with litters accepted. 
8. Rabbits that have been spayed or neutered are permitted in the show, however they will show in the Mixed Breed/Altered Division. This show follows ARBA Breed Standards and will be disqualified in traditional breed classes.
9. The exhibitor is responsible for waste control. 
10. All rabbits must be permanently tattooed. Rabbits will be disqualified if they are not permanently marked.  Rabbits will be disqualified if there is more than one identification tattoo in the left ear. ALL RABBITS MUST BE PERMANENTLY EAR MARKED (TATTOOED) IN THE RABBIT'S LEFT EAR. THIS NUMBER MUST BE SUBMITTED ON ELECTRONIC ENTRY FORM (Please use the description line for tattoo number if no tattoo field is available) OR THE RABBIT WILL NOT BE ENTERED. NO ENTRIES, INCLUDING SHOWMANSHIP, ARE PERMITTED ON THE DAY OF THE SHOW.
11. There can be NO substitutions of rabbits from those which are originally registered on the Kentucky State Fair online entry system. 
12. 4-Hers must be present during the show. 4-Hers must show their own rabbits or another 4-Her may show a rabbit for them if the exhibitor is showing in another class at the 4-H Rabbit Show. 4-Hers must bring rabbits to and from the show table. Only 4-H members can transport rabbits during the show.
13. Only varieties approved by ARBA may be shown. Additionally, we do offer a Mixed Breeds class. Any others will be disqualified at the show table. 
14. Show order will be determined on the day of show and posted.  It is the responsibility of the exhibitor to watch the show order listing and to have their rabbit(s) at the appropriate table in time to show. 
15. Check-in will begin at 9:00 a.m. and end at 10:30 a.m.  Any rabbit not checked in at that time will not be allowed to show. 4-Hers are responsible for checking in their rabbits the day of the show. 
16. Per Kentucky State Fair suggested guidelines no rabbits may be sold during the Kentucky State Fair. 
17. If registering for “open class” no rabbits may leave before 5pm on Sunday per open class guidelines. 
18. Rabbit showmanship will be shown under Kentucky 4-H Guidelines, please see your respective county Extension agent. You must register for showmanship electronically through the State Fair entry system. NO ENTRIES PERMITTED ON DAY OF SHOW. 
19. Only 4-H members are allowed at the show tables. Parents and volunteers are not allowed to communicate with the judge and must maintain a distance of 4ft from the show table. Parents and volunteers are not allowed in the showmanship area. 
20. It is the exhibitor’s responsibility to confirm their entries with county 4-H agent.

Class champions will be selected for all classes within each breed.  For each breed, a champion and reserve champion (rosettes) will be awarded for Best of Breed and Best Opposite of Breed. Also, a champion and reserve champion (rosettes) will be selected from the Other 4 class and Other 6 class entries. A plaque or trophy will be awarded for Best 4-Class, Best 6-Class and then Best In Show and Reserve Best in Show.  Mixed breed/Altered Division (Champ) rabbits cannot compete in Best of Show.

Class Information

Showmanship

Breed Information

Dutch

Dwarf Hotot

English Spot

Harlequin

Holland Lop

Jersey Wolly

Lionheads

Mini Lop

Mini Rex

Netherland Dwarf

Polish

Rex

Tan 

Californian

New Zealand

Palomino 

Flemish Giant 

French Lop

Mixed Breed

Altered (spayed/neutered)

1. Classes in Division: twelve Junior Classes 790A-799B; eleven Senior Classes 800-810.
2. Number of Entries Permitted:
   1. County may submit ONE entry per class.
   2. A member may enter up to three classes within their age division in the Sewing Division. (This means: a member’s name may appear up to three times in the junior age division or the senior age division but cannot appear in both age divisions on the county’s Sewing Division invoice sheet.)
3. General Rules:
   1. See “General Rules Applying to All 4-H Exhibitors in the Kentucky State Fair”
   2. Item must meet all requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
   3. Items entered must have been completed by the exhibitor within the current program year.
   4. The decision of the judges is final.
4. Unique Rules or Instructions:
   1. Items must be “handmade”; no ready-to-wear/factory made items will be accepted for judging.
   2. Articles of clothing for “Clothing Option” classes are to be made by and constructed for the 4-H member to wear. Doll clothing does not meet the requirement for Clothing Option classes.
   3. Send NO additional accessories or undergarment with any sewing entry unless it was constructed as a part of the project.
   4. Specific number of items: In classes where there is to be a specified number of articles exhibited and the entry contains more, the judges will be instructed to have the agent who submits the article(s) make the decision on which item(s) are to be judged. In those cases where the situation was not discovered before entry was made, the article(s) to be judged will be left to the discretion of the judges.
   5. Complete outfit: The definition of a “complete outfit” is an item or items that cover the top and bottom of the body. To be considered a top, a jacket or robe, it must include a front or back closure. Open front tops that require an under shirt do not count as a complete outfit unless the under shirt is also constructed by the member.
5. Additional Documentation Required:
   1. Documentation is required only in Junior Unit VI non-clothing option, Up Cycle Jr & Sr, and Smart Clothing Jr & Sr projects.
      1. Documentation may be handwritten or printed by computer on 8.5” X 11” paper.
      2. Insert documentation into folder or plastic sheet protector. Attach it to the item using a safety pin or binder clip.
6. Labeling:
   1. Identification Card (4lO-11SO): The State Fair Entry system will generate this label. Safety pin the ID card to the outside of the item for public viewing.
   2. Small label: Safety pin a small label with at least the county name on it inside of each article. Do not use straight pins. This label is needed in case garments become separated.
7. Entry Instructions: All exhibits are entered through the State Fair’s electronic submission system by the county Extension staff.
8. Awards:
   1. Each entry that meets class requirements will receive a ribbon.
   2. A champion will be named in each class.
   3. An overall grand champion and reserve champion will be selected.
9. Class Descriptions:

Junior Division for 4-Hers Ages 9-13

Junior members may complete the projects in any order and may repeat a level for more than one year. The curriculum includes instructions for making “practice” items; the practice items do not fit in classes in the Clothing Division.

Unit I – Let’s Learn to Sew: Beginner Skills

Pages 3-20 and 55-56.

Unit II – Let’s Get to the Bottom: Beginner Skills

Pages 21-38 and 55-56.

Unit III – Top It Off: Beginner Skills

Pages 39-52 and 55-56.

Unit IV – Stretch Your Knit Skills: Beginner Skills

Pages 45-48 and 55-56.

Unit VI – Put it All Together

Pages 49-56.

Unit: Up Cycle It!

For youth ages 9-13 with Advanced Sewing Skills

Senior Division for 4-Hers, age 14-18

Senior members may complete the projects in any order and may repeat a level for more than one year.

Unit: Let’s Be Casual

Unit: Dress It Up

Unit: Match It Up

Unit: Creative Expression 

Unit: Leisure Time

For Senior 4-Her with Advanced Skills

Unit: Formal Affair 

For Senior 4-Her with Advanced Skills

Unit: Up Cycle It

For Senior 4-Her with Advanced Skills

Unit: Outerwear

CAUTION: The 4-H tobacco exhibit rules and classes are determined by the state fair, not the 4-H office; therefore, there could be changes to this category. This should be used only as a guide. The classes below are taken from the previous year’s Kentucky State Fair catalog. The final decisions will not be made until June 2025 by the state fair board.

4-H Tobacco will be received only on Entry Day (Monday prior to the opening day of the State Fair); Judging of tobacco exhibits will begin at 12:00 noon E.D.T. on the following Wednesday.

NOTE: State Fair has dropped Tobacco Grading

Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.

1. See General Rules applying to all 4-H Exhibitors and general rules applying to all exhibits other than livestock listed in the State Fair Catalog. Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.
2. There is no fee for entering 4-H tobacco.
3. Entries in 4-H tobacco must be made through the 4-H leader/agent.
4. It is the exhibitor’s responsibility to make sure the entry online form is filled out correctly and tobacco is entered into the proper class by the August deadline.
5. All exhibits should be brought to the Tobacco Department in the West Hall. The department will be open for receiving 4-H tobacco on Monday (Exhibit Entry) before the state fair officially opens from 9:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.
6. 4-H tobacco will be released to the Department of Agriculture on Monday after the fair closes from 9:00 a.m. to noon.
7. 4-H exhibitors are eligible to compete in only one division of the youth show (not 4-H AND FFA). However, they may compete in the Open Youth Class, provided they have separate entries for that class. Open class entries must be made by July 1 on open class (pink) entry forms.
8. Entries in 4-H tobacco are restricted to enrolled members of 4-H.
9. The Superintendent shall have the duty and authority to reject any entry that in his/her opinion is unworthy of entry.
10. Entries infected with insects or disease, or exhibiting server damage, shall be discarded at the discretion of the Superintendent.
11. An exhibitor may enter in any one or all different classes. However, one exhibitor is limited to ONE entry per class (Potted Plant, Green stick and Stripped Tobacco).
12. Each stick of green tobacco consists of 4 stalks per stick. The Superintendent and staff will NOT select a stalk to remove if 5 are included on the stick. It will be the duty of the agent/leader/exhibitor to select the stalk to remove.
13. All entries in the green stick classes should be wilted for a better presentation, but must still be in GREEN STAGE. Green tobacco will be judged on uniformity, general appearance and quality. The Superintendent has the right to disqualify any stick entered into the green stick category that has cured beyond the green stage.
14. All growing tobacco plants should be potted in a waterproof plastic bag and placed in an attractive container before arrival at the Fair. A five (5) gallon bucket is suggested.
15. Each exhibit of stripped Burley tobacco shall consist of two (2) hands, each hand shall be made of twenty (20) leaves or more. The first, second, and third place entries in all stripped divisions will remain at the State Fair.
16. 4-H name tag for each exhibit of tobacco should be tied with string around the hands at entry.
17. 4-H will be awarded on the Danish system.

4-H Exhibitor with highest total points is awarded the best exhibitor award and will receive an engraved plaque offered by the Kentucky Department of Agriculture. To be eligible, exhibitor must enter three of the following classes:

• Burley - Stripped Dark Stripped
• Burley - Best Crop Green Stick - Dark
• Green Stick Burley Dark - Best Crop
• Potted Burley Potted Dark

Entries shall be on an individual basis and must be produced by the exhibitor. Only one entry per individual is permitted and an entry shall consist of four grades: Flying, Lugs, Leaf and Tips. Each grade shall consist of two hands of 20 leaves each and samples entered in Classes 6 through 10 shall not be considered for this class. An engraved plaque will be awarded to the 4-H individual exhibiting the most outstanding entry in classes 5 through 8 and 15. In case of a tie, a point system will be used in awarding plaques.

Tobacco Divisions and Classes

Burley

Burley - Best Crop

Dark Tobacco

All 4-H Dark Tobacco should be entered as Division 2102.

Entries shall be on an individual basis and must be produced by the exhibitor. One entry per individual is permitted. 

Green Stick and Potted Burley Tobacco 

All potted plants will become the property of the Kentucky State Fair and after judging will be used as decorations throughout the fair for promotion of the Tobacco Department.

Project entry must meet all the requirements for the class; otherwise, the entry will be disqualified.

1. See general rules applying to all 4-H exhibitors and general rules applying to 4-H exhibits other than livestock. 
2. Reference materials include the Kentucky 4-H Woodworking Program Youth Project Guides and the National 4-H Woodworking Wonders Youth Activity Guides.
3. Limit of one entry per county per class.
4. An exhibitor may enter only one wood science class per year.
5. Class Champions will be selected in each class and a Grand Champion and Reserve Champion will be selected overall.

Class Information