County Programs
Public Speaking:
All 4-H'ers are encouraged to join in the Public Speaking contests. They can present a speech, a power point, a demonstration, or an illustrated talk (using poster or photos) and are divided into Junior and Senior presenters. The guidelines for the speeches, presentations, and local contests are in the NLC 4-H Public Presentation Information Flyer below. Topics are entirely of the presenters choosing. Everyone receives a participation ribbon.
In an effort to be in line with other counties throughout Connecticut, we have removed the requirement to participate at a local contest in order to be able to qualify to compete at the county contest scheduled to take place Friday, February 7, 2025. Clubs are welcome to host local contests if they wish for those 4-H members who might not be ready for the county level or just to provide additional practice opportunities. The blue ribbon winners of the county competition go on to the next level statewide CT 4-H contest February 26 & 27 (this contest is virtual). The top four scorers in each division will then compete for the UConn 4-H state title (in person) on Saturday, March 8, 2025.
4-H Explorers may participate at the local contest, they do not compete at the county level
- Tip Sheets- UConn Public Speaking 101
Food Show:
The Food Show is open to all clubs in New London County! If you are an independent member or only one or two of your club who wants to participate, contact the 4-H Office to be connected with a participating club.
Each year has a different theme, and clubs choose how to interpret the theme. The club plans a meal and each 4-H'er makes a dish to bring. Clubs should set and decorate their table according to their theme. You can even dress up!
Each club is judged and then the judges decide the top 3 winners of the coveted 4-H Golden Spatula Award and the Green Ladle Award. There is also the 4-H'ers Choice Award- each 4-H'ers places a vote for the club display/meal they liked the best. All participants receive a Food Show ribbon.
OH! And did we say after judging EVERYONE EATS ALL THE FOOD!
Food Safety * Kitchen Safety * Setting Your Table (new!)
Annual Recognition Night
This event is scheduled for November 20, 2025. It is a celebration of the accomplishments by all of the 4-H'ers, volunteers, and leaders in our county. In addition to shout-outs to winners from the Food Show, Public Speaking, Fair, and National Trip awards, we recognize leaders for significant service milestones (every five years). Fair Premium checks are handed out and we install the incoming NLC 4-H Fair Officers.
Submissions for the County Recognition awards are reviewed in October and publicly awarded at Recognition Night.
End of the Year
As the end of the year wraps up, we need some help from the club leaders. Please see the form below.
