Events

Weekend Gardener

Join us for an enriching experience to explore the world of gardening with expert speakers and engaging discussions. Morning refreshments will be included followed by sessions. Participants…

2026 Lake County 4-H Public Speaking Contest

Want to build your public speaking skills?

Join the 4-H Public Speaking Contest! This is your chance to share your voice, gain confidence, and get helpful feedback in a supportive…

4-H Livestock Skillathon

Join us to test your knowledge of all things livestock! Christian, Jersey, Macoupin, and Montgomery County 4-H programs are excited to host the 2026 4-H Livestock Skillathon Contest. This…

2026 Extension Master Gardener Seed Expo

You’re Invited to the 2026 Seed Expo!Grow. Learn. Connect.

Join us for a vibrant celebration of gardening, community, and the joy of growing something new. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or…

Birdhouse Workshop

Kids can get creative and learn about nature in this hands-on workshop! Participants will build a bluebird nest box with guidance from a Master Naturalist volunteer and discover fun facts about…

4-H Junior Leadership Conference

Save the date! March 7–8, 2026

The Illinois 4-H Junior Leadership Conference (JLC) is an engaging, hands-on event designed for junior high 4-H members in 7th and 8th grade. It introduces youth to…

4-H Scratch Coding: Rocket Rock Blaster

Join us for a fun and interactive Scratch Coding Workshop where kids ages 8–12 will learn how to bring their own rocket blaster game to life! Using Scratch, a beginner-friendly coding platform,…

YQCA In Person Training

LIVESTOCK ETHICS REQUIREMENTS: 

All 4-H exhibitors of Beef, Dairy, Goats, Sheep, and Swine animals will be required to certify in the YQCA program yearly for the show season. (NOTE:…

Wee Naturalists-Winnebago County Office

Join the University of Illinois Extension for Wee Naturalists (Wee Nats), a fun, interactive program for youth ages 4-7, where they will learn about different environmental education topics through a…

Virtual School and Community Garden Training Series

This free program is delivered via Zoom. All audiences are welcome and encouraged to attend, but on-site technical assistance is available only to garden sites in Cook County, IL. Attend one or more…