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The Manatee County Fair is it's own organization, separate from 4-H. However, the Fair provides many opportunities for youth to showcase their 4-H projects, gain recognition, and earn premium money. For many 4-H members, the county fair is the pinnacle of their 4-H experience.
2026 Fair dates are January 15th - 25th
Youth Livestock Exhibits at the Fair are open to 4-H and FFA youth in Manatee County. 4-H General Exhibits at the Fair are open to all 4-H Youth.
Starting at the 2024 Fair, Cloverbuds (youth ages 5-7) may show rabbits, poultry, and dogs! See the Fair Webpage for more information.
Resources and Rules for entering competitions at the Manatee County Fair can be accessed on the Manatee County Fair Youth Livestock Exhibits Webpage.
2025 Manatee County Fair 4-H General Exhibits Premium Book.pdf4-H General Exhibits
4-H General Exhibits
4-H Youth can enter projects in the Manatee County Fair through 4-H in the following categories:
•3-Dimensional Arts & Crafts •Clothing and Textiles
•2-Dimensional Art •Personal Development and Leadership
•Science and Technology •Home & Health
•Foods and Nutrition •Horticulture
•Natural Sciences and Outdoor Programs •Performing Arts
•Photography •Digital Media
To learn more about projects in each of these categories, please see the 2025-2026 4-H General Exhibits Premium Book. Check back for more information.
General Exhibit Interview Examples
General Exhibit Interview Examples
If you are planning to participate in the interviews, to be in the running for grand or reserve champion, below are some sample questions that may be asked by the judges. These are examples to help you prepare and are not necessarily the exact questions you will be asked for each project:
How did you come up with the idea for this project?
What is the main goal or purpose of your project?
How does your project solve a problem or meet a need?
How did you decide on the design of your project?
Why did you choose these materials for your project?
Did you encounter any challenges in creating it?
Is there anything you would change about it if you had more time?
What part of the construction process was the most challenging or rewarding?
How do you plan to use this project in the future?
Have you tested your project to make sure it works as intended?
4-H Exhibits Informational Session
4-H Exhibits Informational Session
This year(2026), Junior, Intermediate, and Senior exhibitors will have the option to complete a short (approximately 3-5 minutes) interview for each exhibit they enter. The interview will be with an exhibit judge at check in on January 10th, 2026. Participating in the interview is optional, but exhibitors will only be eligible for Grand or Reserve Champion in their Exhibit Category if they complete the interview portion. Judges will ask questions about what the exhibitor did to create their project (ex: where did they get their ideas, what materials did they use, how long did it take, what they like about their project, etc.). All exhibitors will be eligible for a blue, red, or white ribbon whether or not they complete the interview portion.
2026 Manatee County Fair Informational Session.mp4Page updated
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