Members of the South Dakota 4-H Program, have the opportunity to apply for National 4-H Conference scheduled for April 10-15, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency, Crystal City in Arlington, Virginia.
National 4‑H Conference is the pinnacle experience in 4‑H Civic Engagement, providing the opportunity for young people to connect, learn, engage, lead and impact their communities, their nation and their world. At the conference, delegates will have the opportunity to have round table discussions and present to federal partner agencies. In addition, youth will take part in Youth Career Fair exhibitions, live “cool job” panels, community service, special events, assemblies and much more.
This experience has been a tradition for 4-H members since 1927. In 1958, the event name, formerly known as the “National 4-H Club Camp,” was changed to National 4-H Conference. Prior to 1959, delegates slept in tents on the grounds of the National Mall in front of the Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Washington, DC. In 1959, the meeting moved from the National Mall to the newly founded National 4-H Center in Chevy Chase, MD (right outside of Washington, D.C.).
Who can apply?
Youth must be 16 – 18 years old by the date of the event to apply. Applicants should submit their applications to their local 4-H Youth Program Advisor. Upon approval, the 4-H Youth Program Advisor will submit the signed application, via email or USPS mail, to the State 4-H Office by January 30, 2026. A designated committee of 4-H Youth Development professionals and/or previous trip participants will review applications and notify youth who are selected to attend National 4-H Conference as a delegate. Use the button below to view the application and apply today!
If you are interested in chaperoning this overnight experience for youth, fill out the coach and chaperone interest form.
What does it cost?
Participants are responsible for the entire cost of the trip. The price to attend National 4-H Conference will be determined when the registration fee has been announced and the number of youth attending from South Dakota has been determined. Potential costs for four youth to attend is $3,300.00 per youth.
Additional information, including registration information, federal briefing topics and the code of conduct forms are forthcoming. More information can be found on the National 4-H Conference website.
