Each year, Extension's 4-H members proudly participate in the Clark County Fair & Rodeo, one of the most exciting and rewarding events of the 4-H year. The fair offers youth the opportunity to share their hard work with the community, showcasing the skills, knowledge and dedication they have developed through their 4-H projects.

For many members, it represents the culmination of a cycle of learning by doing, which is the foundation of our 4-H Program. Through participation, youth not only showcase their projects, but also develop the leadership, character and life skills that will benefit them far beyond the fairgrounds.

Community support is essential to the success of our 4-H youth. We invite families, businesses and community members to visit the fair and support our outstanding 4-H youth as they demonstrate the true spirit of “Head, Heart, Hands and Health.”

4-H kids smiling at a small animal contest.

Why fair participation is valuable

Participating in the Clark County Fair is more than a competition; it is a powerful learning experience. The fair environment reinforces our 4-H mission of developing capable, confident and caring young leaders.

Builds confidence

Exhibiting a project in front of judges and the public helps youth gain self-confidence and pride in their accomplishments.

Develops life skills

Preparing for fair participation strengthens a variety of life skills, including:

  • Applying project knowledge in real-world settings
  • Sportsmanship with fellow exhibitors and ethical competition
  • Communication skills with judges, buyers and community members
  • Responsibility and time management through animal care, record keeping and goal setting
  • Financial literacy, particularly through livestock projects and auction participation

Encourages growth through feedback

Judging provides constructive feedback that allows youth to improve skills and deepen knowledge in their project areas.

Strengthens community connections

The fair connects 4-H members with local businesses, volunteers, families and supporters while highlighting the positive impact youth are making in the community.

Celebrates dedication

Fair participation recognizes months of commitment and effort by youth as they pursue personal growth through 4-H projects.

4-H staff and youth in front of a 4-H van.

How 4-H members participate

Learn by doing

Our 4-H members in Clark County participate in a wide range of fair events that highlight their project work and personal development.

Youth showcase livestock and small animals, educational displays and creative project exhibits, while participating in contests, demonstrations and showmanship competitions.

4-H members can also help operate parts of the fair or assist with events, which further builds teamwork and service skills. The partnership among staff, volunteers and families creates a supportive learning environment that allows youth to succeed.

Their combined efforts reinforce the 4-H approach to learning by doing while providing safe supervision, educational mentorship and positive role modeling.

Livestock and small animal exhibits


Members who participate in livestock and small animal projects spend months caring for animals, maintaining records and preparing for judging. Youth may exhibit swine, goats, lambs, rabbits, poultry and other project animals.

Exhibitors demonstrate animal handling, knowledge of care practices and ethical competition through showmanship and market classes. Many members also participate in the livestock auction, which introduces youth to marketing and financial responsibility.

Creative and educational exhibits

4-H members in the Exhibit Hall at the fair display projects they have worked on throughout the year as part of 4-H. These exhibits often include projects in:

  • Cooking or sewing
  • Arts, crafts or photography
  • Gardening or woodworking
  • Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)

Members submit their work to be judged based on quality, creativity and the skills they developed while completing their projects.

Members also create educational exhibits, which are display boards or interactive presentations designed to teach visitors about a topic related to their project. These exhibits may:

  • Share research
  • Demonstrate safety practices
  • Explain how the project was completed
  • Provide information about agriculture, science, nutrition or community issues

2026 fair information

April 8-12, 2026 | Logandale, Nevada

Eligibility requirements

The Clark County Junior Livestock Association (CCJLA) requires livestock and small animal exhibitors be a member in good standing in any of the following organizations: Future Farmers of America, 4-H Youth Development or Grange.

4-H requirements

To be in good standing with 4-H, you must meet all of the requirements outlined in this section.

Three 4-H girls showing chickens.
Program requirements

To participate in livestock shows or small animal contests or to represent 4-H at the Clark County Fair, members must meet the following program requirements.

  • Be enrolled in:
    • 4-H Online for the current 4-H year,
    • An active 4-H Club in Clark County AND
    • The specific project in which they plan to exhibit.
  • Complete all required trainings, including Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA) for livestock exhibitors.

Enrollment is mandatory for all members for liability coverage, eligibility verification and program accountability. Members who are not properly enrolled will not be permitted to exhibit as 4-H participants.

Staff assistance is available for families who need help completing registration.

eNroll in 4-H Online
Youth for the Quality Care of Animals (YQCA)

As of October 2025, youth showing livestock species, including breeding, in events led or sanctioned by Nevada 4-H are required to earn their Youth for the Quality Care of Animals certificate.

All youth exhibiting livestock in the fair must complete YQCA certification training prior to the event. This state-required, one-hour training ensures that exhibitors understand proper animal care, biosecurity, food safety and ethical treatment standards. 

  • Cost: $3 in person or $12 online.
  • Completion: Youth must complete the online pre- and post-tests to receive certification.
  • Record keeping: Members should keep record of their training certificate once completed.
  • Fair qualifications: If you attended an in-person training with Extension in Clark County, your certification has already been tracked. If you earn your certification online, please email it to Rocki Shaner for fair qualifications.
  • Training contact: Additional training sessions are offered throughout the year. For assistance or accommodations, contact Rocki Shaner.
Livestock portfolio and record book

4-H record books are detailed written records that 4-H members keep to document their project work throughout the year. They track goals, activities, expenses, animal or project care, learning experiences and personal reflections. Record books help members stay organized, demonstrate responsibility and show what they learned during their project.

All livestock-exhibiting members must complete a livestock portfolio or record book. Choosing for their portfolio to be judged is optional.

There are two record book templates to choose from. The PDF version can be filled out on the computer and then printed. The Word version should be printed and filled in by hand. Physical copies are also available during weigh-in events, from the Extension office in Logandale or by contacting Rocki Shaner.

All record books must be submitted by the Wednesday of the fair in the Livestock Barn.

See 4-H Forms & Record Books

Club demonstrations

4-H Club demonstrations are educational presentations given by 4-H members to teach others how to complete a skill, activity or process related to a project area. During a demonstration, members explain step-by-step instructions, show materials or techniques, and share knowledge they have learned. These presentations help members develop public speaking, leadership and teaching skills while sharing information with their club or audience.

Members exhibiting animals at the Clark County Fair must complete a demonstration related to a project skill or subject area before the fair. Demonstrations are typically presented during club meetings.

Project interviews

4-H project interviews are educational presentations where 4-H members meet with evaluators to discuss and demonstrate what they learned through a specific project. During the interview, participants explain their project work; show records or displays; and answer questions to demonstrate knowledge, skills and personal growth. These interviews help assess learning, responsibility and communication skills, not just final project results.

Project interviews begin in January at Extension's offices in Logandale and Mesquite. Appointment information is distributed to members in advance. Accommodations are available upon request.

Graduating senior recognition

High school seniors exhibiting livestock at the Clark County Fair who have participated in any 4-H project for at least three years are invited to participate in Graduating Senior Recognition. Participating seniors receive 4-H graduation cords and certificates.

Seniors must complete the questionnaire and register through 4-H Online under events or through the Senior Dedication Registration link. 

  • Date: Sunday, April 12, 2026
  • Location: Clark County Fair Livestock Barn, 1301 Whipple Ave., Logandale, NV 89021

Entering small animal exhibits and contests

At the Clark County Fair, 4-H small animal contests showcase youth exhibitors presenting chickens, rabbits and goats in age-based showmanship and judging classes. Members can also participate in an animal costume contest.

Participants are evaluated on their animal’s health and condition, as well as their knowledge, handling skills and presentation abilities. These contests highlight months of hands-on project work, while helping 4-H members build responsibility, confidence and animal care expertise.

Small animal contests

Registration deadline: March 15, 2026

SMALL ANIMAL CONTEST REGISTRATION
A 4-H girl with her goat.
Contest schedule
  • Wednesday – Chickens
    • Cloverbuds: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
    • Juniors: 3 p.m.
    • Intermediates: 5 p.m.
    • Seniors: 7 p.m.
  • Friday – Rabbits
    • Cloverbuds: 5 p.m.
    • Juniors: 7 p.m.
  • Saturday – Rabbits
    • Intermediates: 5 p.m.
    • Seniors: 6 p.m.
  • Sunday – Goats and animal costume contest
    • Cloverbuds: 10 a.m.
    • Juniors: 12 p.m.
    • Intermediates: 1 p.m.
    • Seniors: 2 p.m.
    • Costume contest: 3 p.m.

Small animal exhibits

Guidelines from the Clark County Fair:

  • Pre-register: To guarantee a cage, please pre-register with the Clark County Fair by April 1, 2026. After pre-registration, cages will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Exhibitors must provide cages or viewable containers for rodents, caged birds, reptiles or fish. See the Clark County Fair & Rodeo Forms and Agreements page for the small livestock registration form.
  • Check-in: All pre-registered entries must be brought to the fairgrounds on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, between the hours of 8 a.m. and noon. All exhibits must be officially checked in.
  • Check-out: Removal of entries will begin at 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 12, 2026. Access to the Small Animal Pavilion will only be granted through Gate 7, located on the east side of the fairgrounds. All entries must be removed by 9 p.m. Entries remaining after 9 p.m. will be the sole responsibility of the owner. Large animals will not be allowed to load out until after 9 p.m.
  • General information: Exhibits will be inspected for health and soundness upon entry and periodically each day. Any animal showing signs of disease or illness during the fair will be removed immediately and its exhibitor will be notified. Exhibitors must provide any special feed required by the exhibit. Water provided during the fair will be medicated for coccidiosis. The fair will not accept responsibility for damage or loss of an exhibit. During the judging of the exhibits, the Small Animal Pavilion will be closed to the public and all exhibitors. 
Paintings on exhibit at the fair.

Entering creative and educational exhibits

4-H members are encouraged to enter creative and educational projects in the Clark County Fair Exhibit Hall.

While the exhibit competitions are managed by the fair, 4-H  in Clark County coordinates exhibit drop-off and return for members.

Exhibit entries include the areas of:

  • Science
  • Horticulture
  • Fine arts, creative arts or photography
  • Home science or home arts
  • Industrial arts

All exhibits must be created by the exhibitor and meet fair guidelines regarding quality, safety and presentation.

Exhibits Handbook

How to enter as a 4-H member

4-H staff manage registration via paper forms to ensure all 4-H exhibits are turned in and returned together. So please do not complete exhibit registration via the Clark County Fair website. Instead, follow these steps:

  1. Check out the Clark County Fair Sections and Classes and Exhibits Handbook, and decide what creations you want to enter. 
  2. Make sure your exhibit meets all the rules (outlined below).
  3. Print and fill out an exhibit registration form that fits your exhibit. See the Clark County Fair & Rodeo Forms and Agreements page. Printed forms are also available via 4-H staff. Please print out the form.
  4. Attach your completed exhibit registration form to your exhibit using tape, a paper clip or a staple, or by placing it in a bag.
  5. Wrap your exhibit for transportation.
  6. Hand your exhibit and completed exhibit registration form to your local 4-H staff following drop-off procedures (outlined below).
Drop-off procedures

We provide project drop-off opportunities to all 4-H members who would like to enter the exhibit competitions. This is especially helpful to members who cannot drive to Logandale before the fair to drop off their exhibits.

Logandale, Mesquite and Searchlight

Exhibits can be handed to a 4-H staff member by March 30, 2026.

Exhibits can also be dropped off at the fairgrounds by Monday, April 6, 2026. The drop-off location and times are:

  • Clark County Fair Fine Arts Building, 1301 W. Whipple Ave., Logandale, NV 89021
    • Saturday, April 4, 2026 | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
    • Monday, April 6, 2026 | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Note: Please inform a 4-H staff member of the exhibit drop-off, if you would like your exhibit to display a 4-H sticker. 

Exhibits can be picked up after the fair on Monday, April 13, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Las Vegas and North Las Vegas 

Note: 4-H staff will not be accepting exhibits with live plants, perishable food or small animals via this drop-off procedure.

Exhibits can be submitted to a 4-H staff member for entry by March 30, 2026. Drop off locations and times include:

Exhibits will be returned after April 16, 2026. Members must coordinate pickup with 4-H staff.

If you have any questions, please email us at cc4-h@unr.edu.

Exhibit guidelines

  • Exhibits must be the handiwork of the exhibitor.
  • All exhibits are entered and displayed at the risk of the owner.
  • The exhibitor is responsible for deciding on the proper class and lot per entry.
  • Exhibitors must receive and retain a claim check for each entry. These claim checks must be presented to claim entry.
  • Fair management will not be responsible for loss or damage, but will use every reasonable precaution to protect entry.
  • Exhibits may be disqualified if found soiled, damaged or with signs of excessive wear.
  • Any exhibit in questionable taste will not be accepted for public display.
  • The exhibit hall will close at 10 p.m. daily and 8 p.m. on Sunday.
  • Exhibits cannot be removed before Monday, April 13 at 10 a.m.

Judging and awards

  • Only judges and clerks may be present in the area while judging is taking place.
  • Each entry will be judged on its own merit and receive a blue or red ribbon based upon score.
  • Best, Second Best and Third Best of Class Awards will be given to the top three entries in each class where possible.
  • Champion and Reserve Champion Awards will be given in each section, and one Best of Show will be given in each division.
  • Judging and awards are not completed until the official opening of the fair. Please do not come in or call.
  • When there is a single entry in a class, the award will be made on merit alone.

Age categories 

  • Adult | 18 years or older
  • Teen | 7th – 12th Grade (13 – 18 years old)
  • Youth | 3rd – 6th Grade (8 – 12 years old)
  • Child |  Kindergarten – 2nd Grade (Up to and including age 7)

Skill categories

  • P. Professional – Any person, regardless of age, who makes $1,500 or more income from the sale of, and/or teaching skills of, and/or owns a shop which features the items that are presented for judging. Entries will be awarded ribbons only. 
  • AM. Amateur – An amateur is anyone who is not considered a professional as defined above. Judging will be for ribbons.
  • SN. Special Needs – Any person who by reason of physical or mental limitations, would be unfairly penalized if placed in competition with those of average abilities.
4-H Clark County Nevada with a 4-H Clover.

Additional preparation opportunities

Extension, Clark County 4-H offers educational opportunities to help members prepare for fair participation.

4-H Buyers Workshop

Calling all 4-H Livestock Showmen!

If you are showing livestock at this year’s Clark County Fair and need some extra help on how to find buyers, how to approach buyers, what to do when you do find a buyer and what to do at the end of your project for your buyer – this workshop is for you! 

This two-hour workshop helps youth and families learn livestock marketing strategies, buyer communication and proper thank-you correspondence.

Registration for the 2026 Buyers Workshop

There will be two workshops offered!

  1. Extension office in Logandale, Building B | Feb. 24, 2026, at 6 p.m.
  2. Extension office in Mesquite, next to the College of Southern Nevada Building | Feb. 26, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.

Clark County Junior Livestock Association Weigh-In and Showmanship Clinic

Clinicians provide instruction in fitting, showmanship and in-ring coaching for exhibitors of all experience levels.

  • When: Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026
  • Weigh-In: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  • Potluck lunch: 11 a.m.
  • Clinic begins: Noon

Livestock scale access

Electronic livestock scales are available 24/7 for swine, goats and lambs at the Extension office in Logandale, behind Building B.

Members may contact Rocki Shaner for assistance.

Volunteer participation

Volunteers are essential to the 4-H Program and play a major role in preparing youth for fair participation. Volunteers include club leaders, project leaders, committee members and community mentors who share their time and expertise.

Become a 4-H volunteer


Project instruction and mentorship

Volunteers teach project skills throughout the year, including:

  • Livestock care
  • Showmanship techniques
  • Public speaking development
  • Creative arts instruction

Their guidance helps youth build the knowledge necessary for successful fair participation.

Club leadership and activity planning

Club leaders organize meetings, coordinate demonstrations and support youth in completing required fair eligibility steps. Leaders often help youth practice interviews, prepare presentations and review record books.

Showmanship and practice coordination

Volunteers frequently host and lead weekly livestock practices and skill development sessions. These hands-on opportunities allow members to gain experience working with animals and improve their confidence in the show ring.

Fair operations support

During the fair, volunteers assist with check-in, animal supervision, barn duty coordination and event support. They help maintain a safe and positive environment for youth participants. While youth are responsible for their projects, volunteer and family involvement help ensure members remain organized and prepared.

If you are interested in volunteering during the fair, please contact Rocki Shaner.

Community engagement

Volunteers help strengthen relationships between 4-H and the community by promoting youth activities, connecting with local supporters, and encouraging participation in auctions and educational displays.

For more information

Extension's 4-H Program in Clark County remains committed to helping youth develop practical skills, leadership abilities and lifelong confidence through fair participation and hands-on learning experiences.

For questions about 4-H fair participation, exhibit entry or program requirements, contact cc4-h@unr.edu or Rocki Shaner.

 

Contacts

Rocki Shaner
Rocki Shaner
Program Contact

shanerr@unr.edu
Lacey Tom
Lacey Tom
Program Contact
(702) 397-2604
lsproul@unr.edu
Carol Bishop
Carol Bishop
Program Leader & Contact
(702) 397-2604
cbishop@unr.edu
Dianna Walker
Dianna Walker
Program Contact
(702) 397-2604
diannaw@unr.edu
Yaritza Ileana Morales
Yaritza Ileana Morales
Program Contact
(702) 940-5415
yaritzam@unr.edu