News

Latest Press Release and News from CCE Orange County:

First Annual 4-H Farm & Family Fair in Otisville, NY Celebrates Agriculture in Orange County

Middletown, NY – This past weekend, the 1st annual 4-H Farm & Family took place at the Education Center & 4-H Park in Otisville, NY. The fair is hosted by Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Orange County & Orange County 4-H and celebrates community, agriculture, and family fun. Over the course of the 3-day fair, thousands of fairgoers made their way to Otisville.

This year’s fair was kicked off with a Touch-a-Truck & Movie Night, with a showing of a popular children’s film. The event was sponsored by the Town of Mount Hope, Howells Fire District #1, and Suzie Q's Cookies & Cream. Attendees were able to bring their own blankets and chairs and had the opportunity to buy movie concessions, just like a drive-in!

This year, returning by popular demand, fairgoers had the opportunity to attend the fair for free AND have free transportation to and from the fairgrounds. Thanks to 2026 New York State Agriculture & Markets Transportation for Youth Grant, we were able to remove barriers and make it easier than ever for young people to explore farming, food production, and rural traditions. Participants in this program had the opportunity to learn all about agriculture, gardening, nutrition, and participate in arts & crafts as well as a wellness activity. Those who participated in the program also were provided with a free meal and an opportunity to have free time to explore the fairgrounds before heading home.

"We were so excited to be able to offer the 'All Aboard to the Fair!' experience and make it possible for even more families to enjoy everything the fair had to offer," said Jill Van Aken, CCE Orange County's Development Officer. "Seeing people come together, make memories, and experience the fair was incredibly rewarding. We hope everyone who participated had a wonderful time and left with memories they'll cherish for years to come."

The 4-H Farm & Family Fair had a wide assortment of family-oriented activities and attractions to enjoy! There was delicious fair food, creative vendors of all sorts, and engaging entertainment such as the Watermelon Eating Contest, Rubber Chicken Throwing Contest, and great music from Midnight Slim & LaurieAnne, Tim VG & Crew, and Psalm 150s. During Saturday afternoon, a “Celebration of Life” event was held for Pam Castro. Castro, a former Family & Consumer Sciences and 4-H educator, sadly passed in October of last year. During the event, friends, family, and former coworkers were able to come together and celebrate her life, share memories, and reflect on her lasting impact that she had on all that knew her.

CCE Orange County also had different program tents around the fair including the Affirmation Tent where families can rest, enjoy fun family activities and add a message to affirmation flags, Jack & Edie’s Family Fun Barn where visitors can learn more about the food grown and produced right here in Orange County, our “Want to be a Farmer?” table where folks could learn about how they could start an agricultural business, and SNAP-Ed NY’s “Market Sprouts” which incorporates interactive nutrition education, cooking, and a farmer’s market shopping experience that allows kids to select ingredients to recreate recipes at home with their families.

The 4-H Farm & Family Fair also gives the chance to explore the rich agricultural heritage of Orange County while enjoying a wide range of events and activities. A major highlight was the opportunity to support the talented youth of the Orange County 4-H program, who showcased the skills and knowledge they’ve developed throughout the year. 70 youth participants, including Cloverbuds, had 482 impressive projects exhibited, with over 72 advancing to the New York State Fair. The fair also featured a variety of animal and livestock shows—including dairy cattle, dogs, sheep, horses, and poultry—where 4-H members demonstrated expert care and handling. Spectators not only learned about proper animal management but also celebrated the hard work of these young participants as they earned certificates of excellence.

If you have any questions about the 4-H Farm & Family Fair, please contact our office at (845) 344-1234.

Last updated July 31, 2026