Overview

The 4-H Poster Contest is an opportunity for members to express creativity, share interests, and build communication skills. Participants design a poster on any topic that interests them and present it during our gallery viewing & presentation night. This event encourages self-expression, confidence, and pride in personal achievements.

• Date: March 17, 2026 @ 5:30 pm
• Location: Extension Office, Large Conference Room
• A light supper will be served at 5:30 pm with the presentations starting at 6:00 pm
• Posters will be displayed gallery-style for viewing by families, friends, and community members
• Each participant will give a 2–3 minute presentation about their poster during the event

• Cloverbuds: Ages 5–7
• Juniors: Ages 8–13
• Seniors: Ages 14–18
• Ages divisions are determined based on their age on January 1, 2026

• Topic: Any subject of personal interest
• Size: One full sheet of standard poster board
• Orientation: Horizontal or vertical
• Materials: Any medium such as markers, paint, collage, or digital print
• Identification: Participant’s name, age, and county must be written on the back
• Originality: Posters must be original work created by the participant

Posters are evaluated based on:

• Theme Interpretation (30%) – How well the poster communicates the contest theme.
• Creativity and Originality (25%) – Unique design and artistic expression.
• Neatness and Quality (20%) – Overall presentation and craftsmanship.
• Use of 4-H Emblem (15%) – Correct and effective use of the 4-H clover.
• Overall Impact (10%) – Visual appeal and message clarity.

• Cloverbuds: All participants receive a certificate and ribbon for participation
• Juniors and Seniors: Judges will select the top three posters in each age group
• Posters will be evaluated on creativity, effort, presentation, and overall visual appeal

• Posters must be completed and brought to the Extension Office on or before Presentation Night
• Each participant may submit one poster
• Posters should be delivered flat and unframed

• Choose a topic that reflects personal interests or experiences
• Use bright colors and clear lettering for easy readability
• Keep the design neat, balanced, and visually engaging
• Practice the 2–3 minute presentation to speak confidently about the poster’s message and design

REGISTRATION LINK 

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, N.C. Cooperative Extension will honor requests for reasonable accommodations made by individuals with disabilities. Please direct accommodation requests to: Sally Dixon, srdixon@ncsu.edu, 828-456-3575. Requests can be served more effectively if notice is provided at least 10 days before the event.

N.C. Cooperative Extension prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, political affiliation, and veteran status.