The La Salle County 4-H Show and Junior Fair returns July 9-12 at the La Salle County fairgrounds in Ottawa, with youth projects, livestock competitions and community activities.

The four-day event will showcase year-round work by 4-H members across the county, from aerospace to animal husbandry to food science, according to a University of Illinois Extension news release.

Thursday, July 9

Exhibition and judging of non-livestock projects begins Thursday, including visual arts, natural resources, interior design and cake decorating. A drone demonstration will highlight the day’s activities.

A “Meet us at the Pole” gathering will feature fairgoers and military guests singing the National Anthem together. A style revue and 4-H SWAG Show will also take place. The Back Roads Pullers Truck & Tractor Pull will close the evening.

Friday, July 10

Livestock shows begin at 8 a.m. with swine, poultry, and sheep, followed by the dairy show. The goat show starts at 2 p.m., with the cat show at 4 p.m.

A basketball tournament begins at 4 p.m. Gypsy Queen Karaoke will perform in the early evening. The T & A Bucking Bulls Rodeo featuring Rugged Cross Cattle Co. will open with Mutton Busting at 6 p.m. and close with a rodeo at 7 p.m.

Saturday, July 11

Horse, rabbit, and beef showmanship contests open in the morning, followed by the beef show. Funny Magic Guy Rob Thompson will perform three shows in the afternoon.

A Fair Auction begins at 4:30 p.m. in the show arena, with proceeds benefiting LaSalle County 4-H programming. Gypsy Queen Karaoke returns for evening entertainment, followed by a Ramer Race Promotions Demolition Derby at 7 p.m.

Sunday, July 12

Horse and sheep shows begin at 8 a.m. The Master Showmanship contest starts at approximately 9 a.m. A dog show—new this year—will take place at 11 a.m.

A closing ceremony will recognize graduating 4-H youth and Cloverbuds. Fairgoers and 4-H members will gather in Building 3 in the afternoon to congratulate exhibitors and honor graduates. Projects are released at approximately 4 p.m.

For 4-H questions, contact the University of Illinois – La Salle County Extension at 815-433-0707.

For gate fees and information on night events, call the La Salle County Junior Fair Association at 815-200-3913.

Those needing accommodations to participate should contact Toni Pienta at fusinatt@illinois.edu or 815-433-0707. Early requests are encouraged.