4-H Super Saturday Offers Hands-On Learning for All Youth

green background with swirls, and photo of youth shooting plastic arrows

Youth from across the area are invited to take part in the 2026 Super Saturday, a fun and engaging half-day program designed to spark creativity, build skills, and introduce participants to a variety of 4-H project areas.

The event will be held on Saturday, April 18 from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Stephenson County Farm Bureau, 210 W. Spring St., Freeport. Open to all youth—not just current 4-H members—Super Saturday provides a welcoming environment for young people ages 5 to 18 years old to explore new interests, meet peers, and experience hands-on learning.

Throughout the morning, participants will rotate through interactive sessions that encourage them to try new activities, discover potential project areas, and gain confidence through learning by doing. From creative arts and food preparation to science-based projects and community service, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Youth between the ages of 8-18 have the opportunity to choose three different hands-on session activities including Building A Bluebird House, Edible Art Display, Leathercraft Key Chains, Snack Time Fun, Shooting Sports, Mix, Stretch, Slime!, Sweet Start: Cream Cheese Mints, Upcycled Book Art, T-shirts to Tail Wags, Animal Disease and Health, as well as Blooming Centerpieces for Beginners and Advanced Youth!

Youth ages 5 to 7 are invited to participate in our 4-H Cloverbud Super Saturday at the same time and location. Youth will explore farm animals through hands-on activities: make butter, decorate a sign, play with clay, and create a fun make-and-take item while learning about life on the farm.

“This is a great opportunity for youth to experience what 4-H is all about,” said Jen Schultz, Stephenson County 4-H Program Coordinator. “Whether they are current members or brand new to 4-H, Super Saturday gives them a chance to explore, learn new skills, and connect with others in a fun and supportive environment.”

Participants are encouraged to dress comfortably and come ready to be active and engaged. Youth do not need prior experience in any project area to attend, making this an ideal event for those interested in trying something new.

Super Saturday highlights the 4-H mission of empowering youth through hands-on learning experiences that build confidence, leadership, and life skills—all while having fun.

For more information or to register, visit go.illinois.edu/StephensonSuperSaturday.

4-H continues to offer a wide range of opportunities for youth to explore their interests, build life skills, and connect with others. To learn more about 4-H program in Stephenson County, contact the University of Illinois Extension office: (815) 235-4125 or visit go.illinois.edu/SC4-H.

About Extension

University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.