By Markis Hill and Joy Miller

Did you ever participate in 4-H? Do you remember the excitement of submitting your project to the fair?

If you’re like us, you may have never had that experience perhaps assuming 4-H was just about livestock judging. Let us be the first to tell you, it’s so much more.

Today’s 4-H competitions include everything from floral design and robotics to baking and fabric arts. Last year, Markis had the opportunity to judge 4-H horticulture projects, and in doing so, discovered something new: Open Class.

Open Class is where anyone— regardless of age or 4-H membership— can enter their best work to be judged. Think of your famous pie, your church potluck cookies, or the giant dahlia blooming in your yard.

With categories ranging from art, woodworking, floriculture, and quilting to antiques, honey, and houseplants, there’s a place for nearly every passion. Submissions are evaluated by impartial, experienced judges, including Johnson County K-State Extension Master Gardeners and other trained volunteers.

For many, entering the fair is also about continuing traditions. Grandmother was a blue-ribbon baker at the Marion County Fair. After she passed, her ribbons became cherished family keepsakes, and her legacy inspired the aunts to take up baking themselves. Competitions like this help pass down skills, stories, and pride from one generation to the next.

Still unsure? What if we told you there’s prize money involved? Blue ribbons earn $3, red get $2, and white receive $1. After the required minimal one-time registration fee, the prize money can add up! There’s nothing quite like the joy of a friendly competition and seeing your work on display.

Youth can enter Open Class too, even if they aren’t in 4-H, and entries must be registered by July 14—no exceptions. Full rules and categories are available in the Open Class handbook at jocokansasfair.com under the Exhibitor Info tab.

The Johnson County Fair returns July 27 through Aug. 2 at the fairgrounds in downtown Gardner (136 E. Washington St.), offering free admission and nightly entertainment on the Midway stage. The Main Event Arena hosts rodeos, flat track racing, and demolition derbies—tickets for those events are available at the arena box office.

A special event for older adults, “Silver Clovers at the Fair,” will take place from 9–10 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 1, offering early building access, complimentary refreshments, and the chance to meet 4-H exhibitors and explore their projects. This event is a partnership between Johnson County K-State Extension and Gardner Parks and Recreation, and it’s designed to enhance the fair experience for those aged 50 and up.

Celebrating its 86th year, the Johnson County Fair is rooted in community tradition, dating back to 1939. Whether you’re entering a project, cheering on a participant, or just enjoying a funnel cake and some local charm, the fair is a time to gather, connect, and celebrate.

Find more at jocokansasfair.com or learn about Silver Clovers at tinyurl.com/SilverClovers.

Markis Hill is horticulture agent and Joy Miller is family and community wellness agent at the Johnson County K-State Research and Extension Office.