The Brown County 4-H Fair has come to an end and with it a resounding amount of highs. As we settle back into our weekly routines, our heads filled with sweet elephant ears and lemon shake-up dreams, the kids can go through their summer with more knowledge and excitement for next year.

Extension Educator Allison Roberts told the Democrat that they saw an influx of different types of projects this year in comparison to last year. She said that there were more dairy species projects than the previous year where other animals or projects were prioritized.

“We might be slightly down in numbers for overall 4Hers,” Roberts said. “The challenge we face is a lot of kids are in year-round sorts, competing with sports and organizations that run year-round versus seasonal is one of the toughest things. We are looking at ways to assist kids in being involved with both. Overall, we’ve had a pretty smooth fair this year. The weather was great and with our animals, the numbers for different project species for livestock has gone up. Participation in other types of projects inside has gone up as well.”

Thankfully, Nashville was brightened with warm weather and clear skies. The week may have started out on the chillier side on Monday, but rounded out very well with hotter temperatures Wednesday through Saturday.

While we might have enjoyed the warmer weather, there’s nothing like a cool day to make a farm animal happy.

The turnout for the beginning of the week was less than we have seen in previous years, but the crowds came in droves once bracelet night hit the carnival on Wednesday.

Brown County Queen Emma Huber attended the fair donned in her sash and tiara to greet people, pass out awards and show animals of her own.

“I’ve definitely enjoyed going to every show, passing out awards, learning about every breed and what the judges look for. That’s what I’ve enjoyed the most this year during the fair,” Huber said.

The animal shows were lined up with the rabbit, goat, cattle, sheep, poulty, swine and animal master showman contests ocurring before the weekend even hit, not to mention the previous ones.

Wednesday also saw a mix of YMCA and 4-H summer camp kids during the kids farm and fun day with crafts, games, a bicycle drag race and more.

The fair has lots for children to enjoy like the carnival, dunk tank, fair food and friendly animals— as well as a few not-so-friendly ones too.

But what does it have for adults to appreciate?

Tom Preston told the Democrat that he looks forward to the photo opportunities at the fair. Preston was anxiously waiting for the sunset so he could take creative photos of the rides at night.

The Democrat also asked John Campbell what he indulges in at the fair.

“The food,” Cambell said. “I don’t get on the rides, they make me sick. But I get excited for the food every year.”

A few notable events during the week were the Demolition Derby on Friday, nightly entertainment Wednesday through Saturday and the Livestock Auction on Saturday to wrap up this years 4-H Fair.

Any project awarded a State Fair entry will be taken to be judged by State Fair judges on July 29 and displayed from August 2 through 18.

Roberts said that enrollment for the 2024 to 2025 4-H season is scheduled to open in October. Interested parties can visit the 4-H website (4-h.org) or contact the Brown County Purdue Extension Office by phone at 988-5495 or by visiting the office (802 Memorial Drive).