At the turn of the 19th century, A.B. Graham - the founder of 4-H - observed that youth were not being treated very well. Youth were mistakenly viewed as mini adults which resulted in their exploitation for labor and commerce. Their only opportunity for personal development outside of church and school was through contests, most of which were over-focused on competition.
As an early pioneer in organized youth development, Graham designed the 4-H program as a mix of activities and relationships to meet the appropriate developmental needs of young people. This well-rounded approach has stood the test of time! Today we build on that foundation by engaging youth in a variety of activities, including competitions. Our approach is ever mindful of Graham’s design, so even in competition a culture of positive youth development remains the highest good.
To discover the main venues that our 4-H'ers ‘get their competitive juices flowing', check out the links to our state 4-H competitive events below.
State Events
State 4-H Livestock Judging and Skill-A-Thon
View resources and results from the State 4-H Livestock Judging and Skill-A-Thon competitions held Sept. 15–16, 2023 in Brookings, South Dakota.
State Shooting Sports
View important dates, updates, results and resources for state shooting sports events.
State Fair
View schedules, resources and results for the 2024 South Dakota State Fair taking place Aug. 28-Sept. 2 in Huron, South Dakota.
State Dog Show
View contestant resources and results for the State 4-H Dog Show.
State Horse Show, Judging and Hippology
View contestant resources and results from the State 4-H Horse Show, Judging and Hippology contests.
State 4-H Rodeo Resources
View the documents and forms to participate in the State 4-H Rodeo.
Upcoming Events
4-H State Shoot
SDSU Extension 4-H will host the 2024 4-H Sping State Shoot April 26–28 in locations throughout Pierre and Fort Pierre, South Dakota.
4-H County Achievement Days and County Fair Schedule
SDSU Extension's South Dakota 4-H program will be hosting county fairs and achievement days across South Dakota beginning in July 2024.
Related Content
Dog Skill-a-thon Study Guide
View a collection of articles, quizzes and study resources to prepare for 4-H Dog Skill-a-thon competitions.
4-H County Achievement Days and County Fair Schedule
SDSU Extension's South Dakota 4-H program will be hosting county fairs and achievement days across South Dakota beginning in July 2024.
South Dakota 4-H Performing Arts Camp
South Dakota 4-H Performing Arts is a 7-day performative experience at Northern State University for youth ages 13 (or have completed 7th grade) to 18. The camp provides the opportunity for youth to gain skills in musical theater performance.