If you’re heading to the Nebraska State Fair, a visit to Raising Nebraska is a must for anyone eager to explore the rich agricultural heritage of our state. Our interactive exhibit hall is packed with engaging activities and displays that offer a deep dive into Nebraska’s agriculture industry. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve rounded up the top 10 things you won’t want to miss at Raising Nebraska during the Nebraska State Fair.
10. Test Your Knowledge with Nebraska 4-H
After the Youth 4-H ID Contests wrap up, adults have the exciting opportunity to test their knowledge with the same exams that 4-H youth take. Try your hand at identifying weeds and grasses, horticulture plants, trees, and insects in the Adult ID Check. No registration is needed—just step up and see how your skills compare!
- August 25, around 3:30pm at the conclusion of the Youth ID Contests
9. Cool Down in the Air Conditioning
Beat the heat at the Nebraska State Fair by stepping into Raising Nebraska, where you can cool off in the comfort of air conditioning. Take a break, sit back, and relax while enjoying your favorite fair foods. While you’re here, don’t miss the chance to explore our many interactive, hands-on exhibits that showcase the rich and diverse world of Nebraska agriculture.

8. Watch the 4-H Fashion Show
The 4-H Fashion Show is a vibrant display of youth talent in clothing construction and consumer management. This fun event highlights the creativity, skill, and confidence of Nebraska’s 4-H youth in the world of fashion.
- August 24, 9:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm
7. Meet the American Honey Queen
We’re thrilled to welcome the American Honey Queen to Raising Nebraska for the very first time! Thanks to the support of the Nebraska Beekeepers Association, you have the sweet opportunity to stop by and meet honey royalty in person.
- August 29, 1:00pm-2:00pm, August 30, 2:00pm-3:00pm, August 31, 4:00pm-5:00pm, September 1, 3:00pm-4:00pm, September 2, 1:00pm-2:00pm
6. See the Quilts of Valor Presentation
Nebraska 4-H youth, families, and volunteers are making a powerful impact through a statewide community service project by creating and donating quilts for the brave service men and women who protect our country and have been “touched by war.” These quilts, crafted with care, are collected and distributed through the Quilts of Valor Foundation and will be proudly presented during the Nebraska State Fair!
- August 24 beginning at 10:15am to 10:45am

5. Attend the Robotic Showcase
The 4-H Robotics Showcase offers youth a platform to demonstrate their STEM talents by presenting their robot designs and programming skills to both judges and the public. Participants have the unique opportunity to interact with judges and showcase their robot in action, highlighting their innovative abilities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
- August 24th from 5:00pm-8:00pm

4. Watch a Live Taping of Backyard Farmer
During the State Fair you can watch a special live taping of “Backyard Farmer,” the nation’s longest-running gardening show. This is a unique opportunity to see the expert panel in action as they answer questions and offer practical advice on all things gardening. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the audience and gain valuable tips to make your garden thrive!
- Monday, August 26. Live Q&A begins at 4:15pm and live taping begins at 5:00pm

3. Check out Nebraska's Largest Classroom Days
Raising Nebraska, in partnership with many of our industry groups and organizations is excited to welcome over 2,000 K-6 grade students to our facility for Nebraska’s Largest Classroom Days. But don’t worry, the fun isn’t just for youth. All ages are welcome to join us for this hands-on day of learning. Some of our partner organizations include: Nebraska Forest Service, UNL Extension, Nebraska Department of Ag, Midwest Dairy, Hiland Dairy, Stuhr Museum, Hastings Museum, Nebraska 4-H, and many more!
- August 23, 27, and 28 from 9:00am to 2:00pm
2. Explore a Special Exhibit Highlighting Women in Ag
The Nebraska Women in Agriculture program is marking its 40th anniversary with an inspiring new photo gallery exhibition, “Legacy of Leadership: Faces of Nebraska Women in Agriculture,” debuting at the 2024 Nebraska State Fair. This captivating gallery showcases the pivotal contributions of women in Nebraska’s agricultural industry, brought to life through a stunning collection of portraits taken by the acclaimed photographer John Noltner.
- Open daily beginning August 23 – September 2 from 10:00am to 9:00pm
1. Attend a Cooking Demonstration in our Presentation Kitchen
Be sure to catch a variety of engaging cooking demos and presentations during the State Fair from experts like Amber Pankonin from Stirlist, the Nebraska Beef Council, Nebraska Sheep and Goat Producers, Nebraska Extension, many more. These demonstrations offer a fantastic opportunity to learn from the best in the industry. Check out our website for the full list of participants and schedules.
For a list of all activities happening at Raising Nebraska during the State Fair, please visit our State Fair Event Calendar on our website.
For a list of ALL activities at the Nebraska State Fair, please visit https://www.statefair.org/