Cornell Cooperative Extension Steuben County / July 27, 2026
CAMERON MILLS, NY – From July 23–25, more than 100 Steuben County 4-H youth and hundreds of supportive adults and community members gathered at Hendershot Haflingers in Cameron Mills for the 2026 Steuben County 4-H Summer Showcase, a three-day event celebrating the knowledge, skills, and personal growth members have developed throughout the year.
While visitors enjoyed animal shows, educational exhibits, the 4-H Maker’s Market, and the annual 54th Annual 4-H Market Sale, the true focus of the Summer Showcase was the learning journey of Steuben County’s youth.
Throughout the year, 4-H members dedicate countless hours to exploring new interests, caring for animals, developing projects, practicing public speaking, and serving their communities. The Summer Showcase provides an opportunity for youth to demonstrate not only what they have learned, but also the confidence, responsibility, and leadership they have gained through the 4-H program.
“4-H is so much more than ribbons and awards,” said the Steuben County 4-H team. “Every project represents a young person setting goals, overcoming challenges, and developing skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Whether they are exhibiting livestock, displaying a sewing project, presenting a science exhibit, or selling handmade items, our members are building confidence and preparing for future success.”
The event featured youth exhibitors in a variety of project areas including livestock, animal science, creative arts, STEM, foods and nutrition, photography, horticulture, and other hands-on learning experiences. Members received constructive feedback from judges, encouraging them to reflect on their accomplishments while identifying new goals for the coming year.
For many youth, the Summer Showcase is also a time to reconnect with friends made through 4-H clubs, clinics and workshops, and other county-wide events. These lifelong friendships, built through shared experiences and teamwork, are among the most valuable outcomes of the program. Together, members learn to support one another, celebrate successes, and demonstrate the character and sportsmanship that define the 4-H experience.
The final day of the Showcase featured the 4-H Maker’s Market, where youth entrepreneurs showcased and sold handmade products, and the 54th Annual 4-H Market Sale, highlighting months of dedication and hard work by members raising market livestock and baked goods. These events provided youth with valuable opportunities to practice communication, marketing, financial literacy, and business skills while connecting with community members and local supporters.
A special highlight of this year’s event was the visit from New York State Assemblyman Phil Palmesano, who attended the 4-H Market Sale on Saturday, July 25. His visit underscored the importance of agricultural education and youth leadership programs, while celebrating the role 4-H plays in preparing the next generation of leaders in agriculture and beyond.
Steuben County 4-H extends its sincere appreciation to the many volunteers, judges, families, sponsors, and community partners who make the Summer Showcase possible each year. A special thank you goes to Hendershot Haflingers for graciously hosting the 2026 event and providing an outstanding venue for youth to learn, grow, and celebrate their accomplishments.
The Steuben County 4-H Summer Showcase reflects the mission of 4-H: empowering young people with the skills they need to become confident leaders, engaged citizens, and lifelong learners. Through hands-on experiences, meaningful mentorship, and opportunities to set and achieve personal goals, Steuben County 4-H continues to prepare youth to be Beyond Ready for college, careers, and life.
For more information about Steuben County 4-H or to learn how to get involved, contact Cornell Cooperative Extension of Steuben County at (607) 664-2300 or visit the Steuben County 4-H program online.
