Spotlight Your Skills at the Johnson County Fair
Do you remember the excitement of competition? There is something thrilling about entering a contest to see how well you can do. It is even more fun when the other competitors are members of your community. If you are missing out on some summer zing, consider entering in Open Class at the Johnson County Fair.
Open Class is a competition where members of the public can enter projects to be judged by a professional against other exemplary entries in a specific category. And good news, there is a category for everyone. Traditional livestock judging and baking is what most people think of when it comes to the fair. But there are also antiques. Yes, that’s right, antiques. Got a cool clock you have kept in your family for generations that is cleaned and works properly? Come show it to everyone at the fair. Jewelry and watches, lamps, sewing tools, fine china, and toys are all categories that have their own competition. It doesn’t just stop there. Art, canning and drying foods, ceramics, crafts, flowers, vegetables, fabric, and fiber art all have multiple subcategories that you can enter to win.
What are the benefits of going through all that trouble to prepare a project to enter an open class? For one, it is an excellent way to showcase your skills or something special to an audience that will appreciate it. I know how special it is when someone recognizes a rare, obscure talent you possess, especially if you don’t have a chance to show it off often. It's like being a part of a club with some close acquaintances and people you have never met before. It provides a sense of community in an area of your life that you didn’t know you were missing.
There are also cash prizes for the winners; blue, red, and white ribbons all get money for winning. $3 for blue, $2 for red, and $1 for white. It may not seem like a lot, but it can add up if you excel in multiple areas. Plus, there isn’t a better feeling than winning a competition amongst your peers. It will be a part of a legacy you get to pass down to your loved ones. And who knows? Maybe you will also spark their interest in trying to enter these contests. Even if they are not in 4-H, there are still many categories that are youth only.
If you want to enter an open class, all submissions must be registered by July 14, with no exceptions. There is a nominal entry fee. For all rules, categories, and schedules, visit http://www.jocokansasfair.com/ to find the Open Class handbook under the exhibitor info tab. The Johnson County Fair will be held at the Johnson County Fairgrounds (136 E WASHINGTON St.) in Gardner, Kansas, from July 26th to August 2nd. Even if you aren’t competing, come show support to your community and enjoy the events and vendors.
by Markis Hill, Horticulture Ornamentals and Turf Agent, 2025