upcoming events 4-h

4-H Upcoming Events CLICK FLYER TO REGISTER

4-H Enrollment Closes

Sept 2025-May 2026





Walking Challenge

Every time you take a walk, stroll in the city, or hike in the woods, let us know how far you walked and who walked with you!

Send your steps to Kat Leo at kal64@cornell.edu for a chance at:

PRIZES for longest individual walk, longest total miles, and more!

Find a Geocache? Record your finds and WIN PRIZES
February
 4-H Challenge
4-H ART Challenge

Art encourages self-expression and emotional awareness, giving youth a safe way to share thoughts and feelings they may not yet have words for. It builds confidence as youth make creative choices and see their ideas come to life. Through planning, experimenting, and revising, youth develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

Art challenges also promote patience, perseverance, and focus, especially when projects take time to complete. When youth share their work, they strengthen communication skills and learn to appreciate diverse perspectives. Overall, art challenges help youth grow socially, emotionally, and creatively—key components of positive youth development and lifelong learning.

Take a picture and share your art creation.

Scan the QR code to send us your pictures/posts, and be eligible for a prize.

MUST BE ENROLLED IN 4-H to be eligible for prizes

UPLOAD PHOTOS HERE 

1st Monday of the Month
6pm
CCE Office
18 Seward Ave, Middletown
4-H Future Innovators County Club

MUST LET US KNOW IF YOUR ATTENDING

Youth and adults learn new skills together in a traditional 4-H club setting. The club will explore a variety of different project areas that are selected by the club members. The group meet once  a month on Monday nights. For more information call the 4-H office at 845-344-1234 or email kal64@cornell.edu Ages 5-19

1st Monday of the Month

5:30pm

Goshen Public Library (Community Room)

366 Main Street

Goshen, NY 10924

4-H County
Clover Bud Club


BRIGHT BUDS

This is a 4-H general interest club tailored to our younger members ages 5-7. This club allows members to participate in activities, complete projects and have community service opportunities that are designed just for them. Join us as we Grow Greatness from the Ground Up. 

Meets once a month.

For more information and to JOIN contact Leah Brown at lbr72@cornell.edu or 845-344-1234
1st Friday of the Month

12pm
CCE Office
18 Seward Ave,
Middletown NY

Orange County
4-H Clover Cubs

 
Homeschool 4-H Cloverbud Club Ages 5-8

Not familiar with 4-H?

This is a great place to begin your 4-H journey.

Clover Cubs Activities include:

Art/Crafts - Community Service - Cooking - Field Trips - Gardening Healthy

Living - Leadership - Photography - Public Speaking

Record Keeping - STEM - County and State Events - Projects and Awards

For more information or to JOIN, contact Leah at lbr72@cornell.edu

1st Friday of the Month
1pm
CCE Office
18 Seward Ave,
Middletown NY
Orange County4-H Discovery Den
 
Homeschool 4-H Member Club

Den Activities include:

Art/Crafts - Community Service - Cooking - Field Trips - Gardening Healthy Living - Leadership - Photography - Public Speaking

Record Keeping - STEM - County and State Events

Projects and Awards

Meets once a month.

For more information and to JOIN contact Leah Brown at lbr72@cornell.edu or 845-344-1234

Friday January 2, 2026

6:30-8pm
CCE Office 18 Seward Ave Middletown

Horse Project Meetings

REGISTER HERE

Join us for horse-related project meetings on the first Friday of the month at the CCE Orange County office from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Check emails and the 4-H newsletter for a registration link each month

(MUST register to participate).

Cost: $5 for non-horse program members but all are welcome!

Saturday, January 10, 2026 1pm
CCE Office
18 Seward Ave Middletown
Cloverbud STEM Day
 

REGISTER HERE

COST:4-H Members - Free

Non-4-H Members - $5
FOR Youth ages 5-8 can explore the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
INCLUDING ROBOTS, COMPUTER SCIENCE, AND MORE!

Contact Kat Leo for more information

kal64@cornell.edu or 845-344-1234

Wednesdays 4:30-6pm
232 Plaza Road, Kingston NY 
4-H Puppetry Program

REGISTER HERE!!!

Join us for a hands-on, imagination-fueled journey into the world of puppetry! Over the course of six sessions, youth participants will learn the art of puppet design and performance, culminating in the creation of their very own hand-and-rod foam puppet.

This workshop series will explore basic puppet construction, character development, and performance skills. The final session will feature a short showcase where participants bring their creations to life in front of an audience!

Dates and Times:

January 14th, 21st, 28th

February 4th, 11th, 18th 

Wednesday January 14, 2026
5PM
Tractor Safety

REGISTER HERE

IN PERSON AND ONLINE SESSIONS

$30/4-H MEMBER

($45 FOR NON-MEMBER)

Open to Youth 14+

who need to receive certification to work on a farm this summer

and/or who is looking for a fun, educational experience.

Participants MUST attend all sessions and take and pass the test to be certified

Questions? Contact Zoe Nafis at zrl7@cornell.edu

Thursday, January 15, 2026 4-H Veterinary Science Introductory Program

This program will be held for nine consecutive Thursdays starting February 5th through April 2nd. Youth will explore the normal animal, including attitude and behavior, maintaining animal health, and the organs and systems of the animal body. Animal diseases will be discussed including viruses, bacteria, and parasites that affect animal health. The instructors will also discuss the profession of veterinary science and career paths.

This program is designed to serve teens ages 13-19 who have an interest in the field of veterinary science and is limited to a total of 24 participants. There is a non-refundable fee of $100 for current existing 4-H members, $125 non-existing 4-H members, financial assistance may be available for those with financial hardships.

More Information:https://ulster.cce.cornell.edu/4-h-youth-development/4-h-veterinary-science-program

Registration: https://cceevents.org/e/4-h-veterinary-science-program

Friday, January 16, 2026

6-8pm
CCE Office
18 Seward Ave, Middletown 3rd Floor

Orange County 4-H FUN Night  REGISTER HERE

Join us for an evening of friendship, laughter, and giving back at our 4-H Fun Night! Youth ages 8 and older are invited to take part in hands-on community service projects and exciting group games that build teamwork and leadership skills. It’s a great way to connect with other 4-H’ers, make a difference in the community, and have a whole lot of fun! For more information contact DeAnna Sardella ds2285@cornell.edu

Saturday, January 17, 2026 
11am
CCE Office
18 Seward Ave Middletown NY
CLOVERBUD CRAFT DAY


REGISTER HERE

This program is for youth ages 5-7

COST

4-H Members:Free

Non-4-H Members:$5

This adorable craft will make you smile throughout the winter season!

Join 4-H Alumni Gracie Williams for a

no-sew winter craft - Build a Snowman!

Stay indoors, make new friends!

All materials provided

For more information, please contact Leah at 845-344-1234 Ext. 225 OR lbr72@cornell.edu

Tuesday January 20, 2026

5:30pm
CCE Office 18 Seward Ave, Middletown

4-H Cloverbud Barnyard Buddies
 
REGISTER HERE

Monthly MeetIng

Where our food comes from

EXISTING CLUB MEMBERS: Please use the registration link to to register!

LOOKING TO JOIN BARNYARD BUDDIES? Reach out to Zoe at zrl7@cornell.edu before registering!

Wednesday January 21, 2026
6:30-8pm
Virtual 

Volunteer Excellence: Recognizing Achievement, Inspiring Growth

Register here

Hear inspiring 4-H volunteer stories including those recognized through the National 4-H Salute to Excellence Award. Come celebrate success, learn from peers and strengthen your own impact. Come away with inspiration and new ideas for recognizing volunteers in your 4-H program!
Tuesday January 27, 2026

6pm-7:30pm
CCE Office 18 Seward Ave, Middletown

Livestock Learning Night REGISTER HERE

Join us for two fun and informative evenings designed to help youth in the 4-H Livestock Programs prepare for the 4-H Calf and Livestock Sale!

Learn how to confidently promote the program, reach out to potential bidders, and showcase the hard work you’ve put into raising your animals. We’ll cover practical marketing skills—like creating buyer letters, making connections in your community, and sharing your 4-H story—to help you attract new and returning supporters.

For 4-H Calf & Livestock Sale participants only. You MUST be enrolled in Orange County 4-H to participate.

Questions? Email Zoe Nafis

at zrl7@cornell.edu

Saturday January 31, 2026
9am
Middletown Reservoir 
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NEW DATE IS FEB 28 AT 9AM
Green Minds Bright Futures Winter Hike REGISTER HERE

The 4-H Winter Hike invites youth to step outside, explore nature, and experience the magic of the winter season. This program encourages outdoor adventure, teaches basic hiking and nature awareness skills, and builds confidence through hands-on learning. Participants will enjoy a fun, guided hike, discover seasonal wildlife clues, and connect with friends—all while embracing the beauty of the colder months. It’s the perfect way to stay active, learn by doing, and enjoy winter with 4-H!

Questions? Please contact Kat Leo at kal64@cornell.edu

COST: Free for 4-H Members

$5/per non-4-H Member

Wednesday February 4, 2026
7pm
Virtual Meeting
2026 NYS 4-H Livestock Summit
 
REGISTER HERE
Hit the Ground Running start your swine project strong. Katlyn Cain Manager of industry relations national pork board
Friday, February 6, 2026

6:30-8pm
CCE Office 18 Seward Ave Middletown

Horse Project Meeting

REGISTER HERE

Join us for horse-related project meetings on the first Friday of the month at the CCE Orange County office from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Check emails and the 4-H newsletter for a registration link each month

(MUST register to participate).

Cost: $5 for non-horse program members but all are welcome!

Wednesday February 11, 2026 
630-8pm
Dutchess CCE Millbrook NY
YQCA
 
During this training you will expand your knowledge and receive your certificate.  Contact Zoe Nafis at zrl7@cornell.edu
Wednesday February 11, 2026
7pm 
Virtual
2026 NYS 4-H Livestock Summit REGISTER HERE
Turning Livestock into Careers Meat Science Opportunities.  Ethan Scheffler, meat lab manager dept of animal science at Ohio State
Thursday February 12, 2026
7-8pm
Virtual
NYS 4-H Virtual Dairy Bowl Practices
 
REGISTER HERE
Join youth from across the state on Thursdays and participate in virtual dairy bowl practices.  Hosted by the NYS 4-H Dairy Committee.
Tuesday February 17, 2026
5:30-630pm
CCE Office 18 Seward Avenue Middletown NY
4-H Cloverbud Barnyard Buddies
 
EXISTING CLUB MEMBERS: Please use THIS LINK to register!

LOOKING TO JOIN BARNYARD BUDDIES? Reach out to Zoe at zrl7@cornell.edu before registering!

Wednesday February 18, 2026
7pm
Virtual 
2026 NYS 4-H Livestock Summit REGISTER HERE
The GOAT Guide Raising Goats 101 Jennifer Bassman owner of Heritage Haus Farm
Wednesday February 18, 2026

6:30 – 8 p.m.

Virtual

AI for 4-H: What to Know and How to Use It

Register here!

The webinar will share an introduction to artificial intelligence, ideas for 4-H volunteers, and pitfalls to avoid. No matter your current level of experience, there will be information for you. You will learn what generative AI is and what it is not through real examples of how it might support your 4-H work.
Thursday February 19, 2026

7-8pm
Virtual

NYS 4-H Virtual Dairy Bowl Practices REGISTER HERE

Join youth from across the state on Thursdays and participate in virtual dairy bowl practices. Hosted by the NYS 4-H Dairy Committee.

Friday February 20, 2026
6-8pm
CCE Office
18 Seward Avenue Middletown NY
Orange County 4-H FUN Night
 
REGISTER HERE

Join us for an evening of friendship, laughter, and giving back at our 4-H Fun Night! Youth ages 8 and older are invited to take part in hands-on community service projects and exciting group games that build teamwork and leadership skills. It’s a great way to connect with other 4-H’ers, make a difference in the community, and have a whole lot of fun! For more information contact DeAnna Sardella ds2285@cornell.edu

Monday February 23, 2026
6pm
CCE Office 18 Seward Ave
Middletown NY
Hour of Code
 
REGISTER HERE

We will be coding a video game using Scratch (a beginner blocked-based language) For more information contact Kat Leo at kal64@cornell.edu

Tuesday, February 24, 2026
6:30-7:30pm
CCE Office 18 Seward Ave Middletown NY
Livestock Learning Night


REGISTER HERE
4-H Livestock Skill-a-thon practices are designed to prepare youth for the regional livestock Skill-a-thon on April 26th at SUNY Cobleskill and the state livestock skill-a-thon at the great new york state fair!

Reach out to Zoe at zrl7@cornell.edu

Wednesday February 25, 2026
7pm
Virtual
2026 NYS 4-H Livestock Summit REGISTER HERE Next Level Show Calves: Skills strategy & Preparing for the Eastern Regional Angus Show Nicole Tommell, Junior Angus Association of NY Advisor and Board Member
Wednesday February 25, 2026
6-7pm
Virtual
4-H STEM PROGRAM OVERVIEW

REGISTER HERE
Zoom link will be sent the week of the meeting.
Did you know your county 4-H program offers exciting STEM opportunities for youth of all ages? From robotics and coding to environmental science and engineering challenges, 4-H helps young people learn by doing while building real-world skills. Join us to learn more about what Orange County 4-H STEM has for you and your family.  Contact Kat Leo at kal64@cornell.edu for more information
Thursday February 26, 2026

7-8pm
Virtual

NYS 4-H Virtual Dairy Bowl Practices REGISTER HERE

Join youth from across the state on Thursdays and participate in virtual dairy bowl practices. Hosted by the NYS 4-H Dairy Committee.

Saturday February 28, 2026
9am
Middletown Reservoir
Green Minds Bright Futures Winter Hike REGISTER HERE

The 4-H Winter Hike invites youth to step outside, explore nature, and experience the magic of the winter season. This program encourages outdoor adventure, teaches basic hiking and nature awareness skills, and builds confidence through hands-on learning. Participants will enjoy a fun, guided hike, discover seasonal wildlife clues, and connect with friends—all while embracing the beauty of the colder months. It’s the perfect way to stay active, learn by doing, and enjoy winter with 4-H!

Questions? Please contact Kat Leo at kal64@cornell.edu

COST: Free for 4-H Members

$5/per non-4-H Member

Every Wednesday in March
Virtual
6:30-7:30pm
Science of Nature

REGISTER HERE

Join us for a fun and educational virtual series on the science of nature: wildlife forensics, designed for youth across New York State. This virtual series for youth showcases examples where science has been used to identify, conserve, and manage wildlife. With expert speakers, we will unravel DNA analysis in mammals, cloning in conservation, wildlife crime in reptiles, and more. No cost to participate Who can participate: 4-H members and families, any interested youth Contact Kat Leo at kal64@cornell.edu if you have any questions.

First Thursday of the Month Starting in March 2026
6-8pm
Cultivating Careers:Agriculture Career Development Program


REGISTER HERE
Cost: $50 per participant Must be a enrolled 4-Her
Plant the seeds for your future!

Considering a career in veterinary science, dairy farm management, horticultural production, or even agricultural-related business? Join the 4-H Agriculture Career Development Program — where passion for agriculture meets real-world opportunity. Learn from ag professionals, tour agricultural operations, strengthen your resume, and prepare for college or a career in the growing ag industry. Youth ages 14 to 19 with an interest in a career in agriculture are eligible to apply.

Questions? Email Zoe Nafis

at zrl7@cornell.edu

Wednesday March 4, 2026
7pm
Virtual
2026 NYS 4-H Livestock Summit REGISTER HERE
More than the show ring: NYS 4-H Livestock Opportunites and Brand New Quiz Bowl Brian Aukema NYS 4-H Livestock Specialist
Saturday March 7, 2026 9am
Cornell University Ithaca, NY
2026 March Dog Madness
 
All participants must register through their local 4-H Youth Development Educator at their county's Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Office. County 4-H staff must complete registrations by Friday, February 27th, 2026.Topics included; Canine nutrition, agility in tight spaces, herding flat work, grooming your dog, hunting/sporting dog, canine body language, canine reproduction, hosting a dog meeting without dogs FOR MORE INFORMATION LINK
Saturday March 14, 2026 10am

Sterling Hill Mine & Museum 

30 Plant Street

Ogdensburg, New Jersey 07439

Sterling Hill Mine & Museum Tour


Cost is $10person 

REGISTER HERE

Visitors will be guided on a walking tour through about 1,300 ft of tunnel inside the mine. Along the way, guides will stop at various stations and explain the equipment, history, working conditions, and geology of the mine. Visitors will see the lamp room, the shaft station, mine galleries dating to the 1830's, and much more.
For more information contact Kat Leo at kal64@cornell.edu
Monday, March 16, 2026
5-7pm
CCE Office 18 Seward Ave
Public Presentations

REGISTRATION WILL BE OPEN ON FEBRUARY 16th.

Registration is NOT required, however, it is highly recommended.

WALK-INS are accepted, they will only be seen when there are open time slots.

For more information contact DeAnna Sardella ds2285@cornell.edu

Wednesday, March 18 2026
5-7pm
CCE Office 18 Seward Ave Middletown
Public Presentations

REGISTRATION WILL BE OPEN ON FEBRUARY 16th.

Registration is NOT required, however, it is highly recommended.

WALK-INS are accepted, they will only be seen when there are open time slots.

For more information contact DeAnna Sardella ds2285@cornell.edu

Wednesday March 18, 2026
6:30pm
Virtual 

Moving into a New Era of Leadership with Teens

In this session, you will learn how to partner with teen leaders to support the 4-H agenda. We’ll explore strategies for collaboration and share real-world examples from Maryland and D.C. 4-H programs.

Register here!

Thursday March 19, 2026
VIRTUAL 

Public Presentations

REGISTRATION WILL BE OPEN ON FEBRUARY 16th.

If you choose to do virtual, please note that you MUST do a slide presentation (PowerPoint, Google, etc.).

For more information contact DeAnna Sardella ds2285@cornell.edu

Saturday March 21, 2026
10am-2pm
CCE Office 18 Seward Ave Middletown
Public Presentations

REGISTRATION WILL BE OPEN ON FEBRUARY 16th.

Registration is NOT required, however, it is highly recommended.

WALK-INS are accepted, they will only be seen when there are open time slots.

For more information contact DeAnna Sardella ds2285@cornell.edu

Tuesday March 24, 2026
6:30-7:30pm
4-H Park 300 Finchville Turnpike Otisville
Livestock Learning Night REGISTER HERE

4-H Livestock Skill-a-thon practices are designed to prepare youth for the regional livestock Skill-a-thon on April 26th at SUNY Cobleskill and the state livestock skill-a-thon at the great new york state fair!

Reach out to Zoe at zrl7@cornell.edu

Wednesday April 1, 2026 LAST DAY TO ENROLL IN 4-H ENROLL HERE
Saturday April 25, 2026
2pm
Cornell University Ithaca NY
NYS 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl.
 
2026 Pilot Program! A brand new pilot program for youth interested in livestock education: the NYS 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl.

At the national level, the 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl has existed for approximately 15 years; New York State has never sent a team. In the past few years, youth participating in judging and skillathon events have expressed strong interest in bringing this opportunity to NYS. This has been youth driven and I have met with a small committee to develop a pilot program for our state.  

Sunday April 26, 2026
9am
SUNY Cobleskill AG & Tech
Livestock Skill-a-Thon and Livestock Judging
 
Must be a registered 4-Her (ages 8-18) Contact Zoe at zrl7@cornell.edu if you are interested in participating.
Saturday April 11, 2026
9am
CCE Office 18 Seward Ave, Middletown NY
4-H Dairy Quiz Bowl

REGISTER HERE

Divisions

Seniors -

Juniors -

Novice & Clover Bud -

(Introduction to Dairy Quiz Bowl)

Questions? Email Zoe Nafis

at zrl7@cornell.edu

Contact

Carol McLaughlin
4-H/FCS Administrative Assistant
cm798@cornell.edu
(845) 344-1234, Ext.243

Last updated February 4, 2026