Whatcom 4-H 2025 Fair Primer

A guide for 4-H volunteers and families to help prepare for the fair.

Share. Learn. Grow.

---

2025 Still Life Entries Drop Off Checklist

July 19, Saturday 10am-2pm

• Drop off Posters, Charts, & Club Banners in the Farm Pavilion
• Drop off 4-H Photography in the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion

July 28, Monday 3pm-7pm

• Drop off Textile Arts & Quilting in the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
• Drop off Open Sewing in the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion

July 31, Thursday 3pm-7pm

• Drop off 4-H Arts & Crafts in the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion

August 2, Saturday 10am-2pm

• Drop off 4-H Table Displays & Club Booths in the Farm Pavilion
• Drop off Open Class Art in the Phillips 66 Building
• Drop off Open Class Models, Legos, and K’nex in the Phillips 66 Building
• Drop off Open Class Photography in the Phillips 66 Building
• Drop off Open Class Hobbies & Collections in the Phillips 66 Building

August 4, Monday 3pm-7pm

• Drop off Open Class Baking & Canning from 1pm–4pm in the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
• Drop off 4-H Clothing in the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
• Drop off 4-H Family Living in the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
• ** 4-H Sciences Drop off time is 4pm-7pm on August 4 in the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion

August 5, Tuesday 3pm-7pm

• Drop off 4-H Food in the Peoples Bank Farm Pavilion
• Drop off Open Class Baking & Canning in the Farm Pavilion

August 6, Wednesday various times

• Drop off Open Class Flowers from 12pm-6pm in the Farm Pavilion
• Drop off 4-H Horticulture from 2pm–6:30pm in the Farm Pavilion
• Drop off Open Class Agriculture from 2pm – 6:30 pm in the Farm Pavilion

See Department Premium Books for entry requirements.

---

 

Things to know to get started on your Fair adventure

Getting In & Getting Entered

Entry Fees & Season Gate Admission (also called Exhibitor Gate Passes): 4-H & FFA Exhibitors – $20 entry fee per exhibitor. There are no animal fees for 4-H animals. Entry fees should be paid when entering online at the time of check out. With the 4-H entry fee, you will receive a complimentary 10-day Seasons Pass (wristband) to the fair. Exhibitors entering in 4-H and FFA should make entries under the same account and pay only one fee. Keep in mind some Open Class Animal Departments have fees which also earn the exhibitor a wristband.

Parent Season Passes are available 2 per family for a discounted rate of $30 for a 10-day seasons pass. They should be purchased online at the time of check out.

Club General Leaders will receive a Complimentary Season Gate Admission wristband. Other enrolled club leaders will be allowed to purchase one adult pass per leader. If the leaders are family members of exhibitors, the leader passes will be covered in the rule above.

Passes must be purchased online by July 20. If the club is going to purchase the passes please arrange your order with Lacey, Competitive Exhibits Coordinator before pass pick up.

All exhibitor passes will be picked up by club or chapter leader/advisor in the main Fair office on July 29 & 30.

Exhibitor Parking/Camping: Camping and parking can be reserved and paid for in the Fair Office. Reservations are filled on a first come first served basis and are filling up quickly. Reserve your spot right away. Camping is a family event, not a 4-H event or Fair sponsored activity.

---

 

Animal Entries

• All animal entries must be received by the July 8 deadline. Animal entries received after July 8 will be charged a late fee of $25.00 per head. No animal entries will be accepted after July 12.
• Animal exhibits must meet ownership requirements as described in 4-H Policy and Procedures Handbook.
• Health requirements for animals are listed in the Exhibitor’s Guide/Premium Book – 4-H for each Department. These requirements
  are for the safety and health of all animals exhibited. Vet Check-in times are listed along with requirements for proof of proper vaccinations.
• Each exhibitor entering animal exhibits should read “SHOW RING ETHICS” listed in the Exhibitor’s Guide/Premium Book – 4-H. Exhibitors agree to abide by this code of ethics as part of entering in the NWWA Fair.
• Herdsmanship is the judging of a club exhibit for its display of animals and the presence of the exhibitors. Taken into consideration are the educational value of the display, helpfulness of exhibitors, and the safety and cleanliness of the area. Premiums are paid based on judging throughout the week. The expectation is that youth are responsible for the herdsmanship and stall duties associated with their animal. Please read CLUB & CHAPTER HERDSMANSHIP listed in the Exhibitor’s Guide/Premium Book – 4-H. One General Club Leader must enter in Herdsmanship for the club in ShoWorks.
• The Fair Association will furnish hay and bedding. Owners must provide grain.

Still Life Entries

• A still life entry is any exhibit that does not breathe or walk, i.e. posters,cookies, vegetables, displays, arts & crafts, etc.
• Each exhibit should be entered in ShoWorks. Be sure all of the requested information, as listed in the Exhibitor’s Guide/Premium Book – 4-H, is complete and that the item for exhibit is in the correct Division and Class number. If it is not the exhibitor may not receive the premium.
• Check for entry deadlines and turn in days. They have been updated in the Exhibitor’s Guide/Premium Book – 4-H.

Cloverbud Entries

4-H members ages 5 to 7 may exhibit only in events approved for Cloverbuds. There are classes specifically for Cloverbuds with 4-H Departments.

Cloverbuds will not be judged, however they can be awarded Cloverbud Premiums for many events, If you are unsure if a Cloverbud can participate, please contact the Fair Office.

What happens with entries at the Fair…

Judging: Judging is one of the most important aspects of the Fair. This is where a qualified judge evaluates the qualities of exhibits and exhibitors. It is an important opportunity for learning to take place. The positive attitudes of exhibitors, leaders and parents are essential for a positive experience with judging.

The focus of 4-H members should be on what they can learn from the experience of being judged and the experience of exhibiting. They learn about how to improve themselves and their exhibit. Criticism of a judge in front of members or anyone else only detracts from the learning experience. Constructive criticism or praise of a judge may be appropriately channeled through the proper superintendent or extension agent at the proper time.

Judging in 4-H is based on a standard. It is often called the Danish system of judging. This means the judge may give as many blues, reds or whites as they feel meet the criteria. Most project areas have standards and often score sheets based on those standards to help judges evaluate exhibits.

Premiums: Premium money is awarded to exhibitors in most exhibit areas. This money is provided by the Northwest Washington Fair and the Fair Board sets premiums. Premium checks are made out to each exhibitor. Checks will be mailed to the address supplied by the exhibitor as soon as they are processed and will be mailed no later than September 30. Checks must be cashed by December 1.

4-H STATE FAIR

Those receiving a blue ribbon for exhibits at the NWWA Fair may qualify for the 4-H State Fair in Puyallup in September.

• State Fair animal entry forms and exhibitor information will be available through the NWWA Fair Department Superintendents on Saturday of the Fair.
• Still Life exhibits will be accepted for entry and forms filled out on Sunday, following the Fair from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, when entries are released.

WSU Whatcom Extension will be available to assist members at the office located at 600 Dupont St, Bellingham after the Fair. Please email Lynda.Williams@wsu.edu to make an appointment or look for an email after the Fair with further information and instructions.

RECORD BOOKS

The Northwest Washington Fair does not require record books for exhibits in the NWWA Fair. However, there are some activities with record book requirements, such as 4-H Horse and the Lynden Junior Livestock Sale.

The Whatcom 4-H Council provides premiums for Record Books turned in to the Extension office by Sept 30. Blue Ribbons earn $30 and Red Ribbons earn $15. Contact Extension office for details.

Horse Record books are required to qualify for 4-H State Fair. Check with Horse Leaders for details.

4-H INFORMATION BOOTH

Staffing the 4-H Information Booth and engaging the public in the 4-H Exhibit Area of the Farm Pavilion Building is important to public relations with the fair going public. Each 4-H member, who enters still life exhibits is required to contribute time as an Exhibit Guide. This is your barn duty. 4-H members exhibiting is the animal barns are also encouraged sign-up for a block of time at the Information Booth. Your knowledge and expertise of 4-H is valuable for the promotion of 4-H.

New this year: 4-H Clubs providing 2 members and an adult can earn a premium for their club. Please see the 4-H in Action Department to register and see more information.

Sign up for a 2 hour time blocks with two 4-H youth members and at least one adult (a parent or leader). Those who would like to have additional shifts are most welcome.

The following list outlines the responsibilities of Exhibit Guides:

• Check in with the “On Duty” 4-H Building Superintendent 5-10 minutes before your scheduled shift. The Superintendent will orient you to your responsibilities.
• Clean and neat dress and appearance are appropriate. 4-H T-shirt or other 4-H recognition is desirable. Wear your best 4-H smile.
• Protect 4-H exhibits. Do not allow visitors behind barriers or into unauthorized areas. Do not allow anyone to remove or damage exhibits.
• Please don’t eat or sleep while on duty. This is your time to share 4-H! Sweep and tidy up the building as needed.
• Do not give out tape or allow use of scissors to the public.
• Enjoy yourself and be a warm and friendly host.

 

ALL COUNTY 4-H ACTIVITIES

4-H Clover Parade

The 4-H youth, leaders and families will begin lining up Saturday August 16,at 11:00 am* and the parade begins at 11:15am. It is a simple parade of the 4-H clubs with their banners, making lots of noise, while walking through the fairgrounds. Wear your club or 4-H t-shirt. All participants will receive a treat,and there will be a contest and the club that demonstrates the best 4-H spirit will win a prize. At the end of the parade we will have a short program,with introductions. To conclude we will take an all Whatcom County 4-H photo. Watch your emails and Facebook for more information.Due to the ten day Fair we know that not all clubs will be present at the same time. We encourage families to come out and join us or make opportunities for you youth member to be included. (*anticipated date, it may change)

4-H Pizza Party

Last year’s Pizza party at the Fair was such a success that the Whatcom 4-H Council has decided to host it again! Wear your 2025 County T-Shirt and join us for pizza and to meet other 4-H’ers. Did you know we have over 400 youth members in Whatcom County? Date and time to be announced but itis tentatively planned for Saturday, August 16 directly after the parade.

4-H Fair Scavenger Hunt

Participate in a 4-H Scavenger Hunt by picking up a list of items to find on the first day of NWWA Fair. You have time to locate items thought out the 10 days of the fair and take photos with your phone. Email you photos to: Lynda.Williams@wsu.edu Prizes will be given at Achievement night.

Other Fun 4-H Activities — Be sure to participate in these!!

• ON THE SPOT COOKING CONTEST
• FLORAL DESIGN CONTEST
• ON THE SPOT HAND SEWING CONTEST
• 4-H CRAFTERS CHALLENGE

 

Judging Contests

Judging Contests are opportunities to gain skills in decision making, evaluation and reasoning. Most departments have judging contests. You do not have to be exhibiting in the project, but exhibitors must be enrolled in the 4-H project area of the judging contest. To add projects in 4HOnline email me at: Lynda.Williams@wsu.edu. Entries must be entered online at the link in each Department.

Judging Events Schedule

• Cat Judging: Thursday August 14, 11am
• Dog Judging: Saturday August 9, 9am
• Livestock Judging: Saturday August 16 10am
• Rabbit & Cavies: Friday August 15, 9am
• Horse Judging: Friday August 8, 1pm * Required for Horse Exhibitors
• Llama & Alpaca: Friday August 8, 4pm
• Dairy Judging: Friday August 7, 4pm
• Food Judging: Thursday August 14, 2pm
• Garden Judging: TBD Check at Drop Off
• Clothing Judging: Friday August 15, 11:30am

4-H-in-Action: Individuals, teams and groups are encouraged to share an activity with the public. Information should be presented, and questions answered. Demonstrations are suggested to be about 40 minutes to one hour in length. This is a non-judged activity. All exhibitors must be registered online. Additional 4-H in Actions may be signed up once Fair starts in the Farm Pavilion.

1. This activity is not as formal as a presentation; however, the demonstration should be planned and practiced.

• Display Information about the activity.

• Engage the public to promote 4-H.

2. Time and location for 4-H in Action are scheduled by the Superintendent in the department where entered. Available locations in the Farm Pavilion or the Cat and Poultry/Rabbit Animal Barn.

3. Examples of activities that would work well in this type of demonstration are: spinning wool, using a serger to construct a garment, showing how to use grooming equipment, how and why to recycle, repurposing recycled items, construction of craft items, quilting, knitting, crocheting or sewing, showing how cameras work, beading , painting, how to draw, slim, edit photos, create a stepping stone, cross stich, flower arrangements, showing how to build something, showing how to create bonsai.

 

HEALTH & SAFETY

Whatcom County 4-H Members will comply with the health and safety guidelines and protocols set by the NWWA Fair management.

IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ THOROUGHLY

 

• Please dress appropriately at the fair. Regardless of the weather, close-toed shoes are advised, particularly in animal pen areas.
• Thorough hand-washing with soap is necessary when working with animals.
• Please do not have food in animal barns.
• Alcohol is strictly prohibited in barns and public spaces at the Fair and consumption of it in front of 4-H youth members is a removable offense.
• Please bring water and stay hydrated.
• All Washington 4-H members and non-member youth participating in all equine projects and activities must wear ASTM & SEI approved headgear when riding or driving. The headgear must have a chin strap and be properly fitted.
• The Fair is a large and busy public venue. Youth should never wander unattended, and it is highly recommended that youth walk with friends oradults they know, particularly during the evenings.
• All leaders, members and families in 4-H are expected to conduct themselves with courteous and respectful behavior. All 4-H members and leaders, please represent our county 4-H program with pride.
• Clubs should have basic first aid kits on hand and any adults in charge should ensure they know where the First Aid building is on the Fairgrounds.
• Call 9-1-1 for any first aid or safety emergency that requires additional support. In Lynden, 9-1-1 routes ALL calls from minor complaints to serious emergencies. Do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 if there is a need for police or medical assistance.

All adults at in attendance at the NW WA Fair are expected to follow the rules set forth by the Fair and additionally to follow the 4-H Code of Conduct.

Complaints should be handled in writing following the process laid out by the NW WA Fair.

4-H is first and foremost a positive youth development program andthe projects are how we help kids learn, grow and share.Let’s work together to make this a fun & successful Fair for all.

 

4-H Youth Code of Conduct (Signed online when Youth Members Enroll)

The code of conduct shall be signed by each youth member and parent/guardian with the current year enrollment. A 4-H youth is not eligible to participate in the 4-H program without this agreement.

As a 4-H youth participant/member you have the responsibility of representing all 4-H members to the public. Therefore, you are expected to conduct yourself in a manner that respects individual rights, safety, and property of others, and reflects favorably on your state, county/tribal program, and club, as well as yourself. You are expected to observe the following guidelines as a participant/member of 4-H.

1. The possession and use of alcoholic beverages, marijuana, and/or drugs other than prescribed medication is prohibited. The use of tobacco products (including vapor products) by youth members is prohibited.

2. Obscene and discriminatory language, roughhousing, and insubordination will not be tolerated.

3. Members and leaders must demonstrate respect for each other and the public.

4. Members are to refrain from public displays of affection or sexual activities at all 4-H functions.

5. Provide an environment that is free of any form of harassment toward other 4-H participant/members, volunteers, or staff.

6. Damage to, or destruction of, property belonging to others is prohibited.

7. Animal abuse of any kind is prohibited.

8. Display of unsportsmanlike conduct is prohibited.

9. Be an example of how to accept what life has to offer – good and bad – and how to live with the outcome of exhibiting your project.

10. Wear neat, clean, and appropriate attire; including shoes, boots, or appropriate footwear at all times.

11. Report any infractions to the superintendent/club leader/event coordinator.

Penalties for infractions(s) may include any or all of the following:

• Placing the member on probation for involvement in further 4-H events and/or termination of 4-H membership.
• Assessing the member the cost of damages and repairs in the event of damage or destruction of property.
• Releasing the member to the nearest law enforcement agency and/or the proper authorities.
• Withholding premiums and/or sending the member home from 4-H activities or events.

All penalties for infractions will be determined by the local Extension 4-H Office*. The local 4-H Extension staff/faculty will notify parents/guardians if penalties are necessary.

For youth & parent/guardians: We understand this agreement is to ensure the safety of the 4-H youth member and ensure conduct and behavior that will result in each participant receiving the full benefit of enjoyment and educational experience from this 4-H affiliation/event. It is not intended to place undue restrictions upon participants.

For youth members: I have read the Code of Conduct and agree to abide by its rules. I understand that infractions of this code will result in any or all of the penalties listed above.

*During the Fair and Fair related activities, Premiums may be pulled at the discretion of the Fair and the 4-H Superintendent.

 

4-H Adult Code of Conduct

• Treat others in a courteous, respectful manner, and serve as a positive role model for youth.
• Accept supervision and work cooperatively with county 4-H staff while involved in the program.
• Abide by policies and guidelines of WSU Extension state and county 4-H programs.
• Make all reasonable efforts to assure that 4-H youth programs are accessible to youth without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.
• Uphold an individual’s right to dignity, self-development, and self-direction.
• NOT abuse any 4-H participant by physical or verbal means, and will report such abuse if observed.
• Refer to WSU Publication C1001E – Child Abuse: Information for WSU Faculty, Staff, and Volunteers – for child abuse information reporting procedures.
• Keep county 4-H staff informed of any incidents that may violate 4-H policies or personal rights.
• Treat animals humanely, and teach youth to properly care for animals.
• Operate machinery, vehicles, and other equipment in a safe and responsible manner.
• Handle fundraising & finances in an ethical manner according to C1059E, 4-H Leader’s Guide to Handling Funds in the 4-H Youth Development Program.
• NOT consume alcohol, use marijuana, tobacco (including vapor products), or illegal substances while responsible for youth in 4-H activities, nor consume anything that will in any way impact my ability to work safely with youth.
• NOT require 4-H participants to purchase materials, equipment, animals, or services from any specific places of business.

 

WSU Extension programs and policies are consistent with federal and state laws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, sex, religion, age, color, creed, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, and veteran status.Evidence or noncompliance may be reported through the WSU Extension office. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and special needs who contact the Whatcom Extension office at least two weeks prior to the event.

 

Things to know before you go!

Get Connected!

• 4-H is a community working together to make the best better.
• Come out to County event, join our facebook groups stop by the Extension office!
• The more connected we are, the stronger we are.

---

Dress for the weather and follow the dress code for the barn. Wear good shoes (not open toed shoes in the barn!) Sunscreen/protection can save the day! We represent the whole 4-H community at the Fair so show off your 4-H gear.

---

Use the buddy system! With 200,000 people in attendance, it’s important to practice safety first. Even if youth are comfortable on the fairgrounds, best practice is to go places with a friend or adult.

---

Pack water bottles, and be prepared to stay hydrated! Drinks to replenish electrolytes can help too! Some kids (& adults!) need to be reminded to drink their water.

---

Check out the 4-H Premium guide for helpful info on your entries. Don’t hesitate to ask the Superintendents, Extension Office, or Fair Entries Office if you have any questions – they’re always happy to lend a hand. It’s better to ask early and avoid any last-minute headaches!

---

Protect your belongings! Air Tags & Smart Tags have come down in price and keep valuables safe. They’re an effective way to find lost animals and even small children.

---

If family and friends want to come to an event before the gates open, remember to have them buy their Fair admissions early, either online or at the ticket booth. Gate 5 is always open.. All gates open at 6am. The Box Office at Gate 1 opens at 9am.

---

Youth and adults always do your best to be a good role model. The days are busy and fun, but long and hot. Practice self care, model it for kids.

---

Alcohol & drugs are not allowed. Report concerns to Security or the Superintendents.

---

As parents, it’s normal to want to help your child especially so when you know they’re tired and have been working hard. The barn rules are that youth members are responsible for barn duty. This is part of positive youth development. Instead of picking up the broom, find ways to encourage them, make a game of it, gently remind them what the rules are. In the long run, these are the types of activities that help them gain work ethic, responsibility.