4-H Congress is an annual statewide event sponsored by North Carolina 4-H and planned by the State 4-H Council and Congress Advisory Committee. For more than a century, this experience has brought together young people from across the state to learn, lead, and serve.
Youth ages 13–18 from across North Carolina are invited to participate in this multi-day experience focused on leadership development, civic engagement, and connection.
The Goals of 4-H Congress are:
- Strengthening the reputation of 4-H as a statewide youth development program
- Expanding knowledge of current issues through speakers, workshops, and group discussions
- Building leadership skills through committee work and active participation
- Engaging youth in the democratic process through campaigning for and electing state 4-H officers
- Providing meaningful social and recreational experiences
- Recognizing excellence through state contests, project awards, and scholarships
Highlights
Each year, Congress builds on a legacy that dates back to the early 1900s while offering experiences that continue to evolve for today’s youth.
Shortcuts
Networking and Connection
4-H Congress brings members together from across North Carolina, giving youth the chance to meet new people, share experiences, and learn from one another. Through activities and time spent together, participants build friendships and connections that often continue long past the event.
Honor Club Tapping Ceremony
The Honor Club tapping ceremony recognizes outstanding 4-H members for their leadership, service, and involvement in the program. During this long-standing Congress tradition, selected members are formally “tapped” and welcomed into the North Carolina 4-H Honor Club in front of their peers.
Workshops
Workshops provide interactive learning sessions led by staff, volunteers, and partners. Members can explore new topics, develop skills, and learn more about leadership, teamwork, and real-world applications beyond their regular projects.
Hands to Service
Hands to Service gives delegates the opportunity to participate in meaningful service projects that support communities and organizations across North Carolina and beyond. Through hands-on service learning, youth work together while learning the importance of teamwork and giving back.
Tours & Experiences
Tours and experiences give delegates the opportunity to explore Raleigh and surrounding areas through activities connected to civic engagement and career exploration. These experiences help members connect what they learn in 4-H to the world around them while spending time with other delegates outside of traditional sessions.
Speakers & Guests
Speakers and guests give delegates the opportunity to hear from leaders, professionals and changemakers who share their experiences, perspectives and insights. These opportunities expose youth to new ideas, inspire them to explore new possibilities and encourage them to make an impact in their communities and beyond.
Spirit Stick
Brought back in 2026, the Spirit Stick brings friendly competition and district pride to 4-H Congress. Throughout the week, delegates show their 4-H spirit through enthusiasm, participation and support for one another, with one district ultimately earning the coveted Spirit Stick.
State Presentation Finals
District presentation winners compete at the state level, sharing their projects and knowledge with judges and an audience. State winners are announced during Congress.
Recognition & Awards
Congress celebrates the accomplishments of 4-H members across North Carolina. Participants are recognized for presentations, leadership, scholarships and other achievements throughout the program year.
Silent Disco
Introduced in 2024, the silent disco is a unique dance experience where participants listen to music through wireless headphones while dancing together. With multiple music channels to choose from, members can enjoy different songs at the same time and have fun in an interactive setting.
State Officer Elections
Delegates participate in the election of the state 4-H officer team. Candidates share their goals and ideas, and youth vote to select the members who will represent North Carolina 4-H and lead the State 4-H Council during the coming year.
Talent Showcase
The talent showcase is an opportunity for 4-H members to share their talents through music, dance, drama, and other performances. Selected acts from across the state perform for delegates and guests, highlighting the wide variety of talents found throughout North Carolina 4-H.
Clover Gala
The clover gala is a social event where delegates gather for an evening of recognition, celebration, and tradition. 4-H’ers dress in formal attire as members and guests come together to celebrate the accomplishments and experiences of the week. The event concludes with a dance for delegates.
Candlelighting Ceremony
The candlelighting ceremony, also known as the “Candlelight Clover,” is one of the most meaningful traditions of 4-H Congress, serving as the program’s closing event and including the installation of the incoming State 4-H Council. Coordinated by the NC 4-H Honor Club, the ceremony reflects the values of service, leadership, and community that have shaped Congress for generations.
Registration
Congress registration is not open yet, but it will be through 4-H Online. County deadlines for registration may vary. Eligibility requirements and participation fees may also differ by county. Contact your local 4-H agent for more information.
Pre-Congress Participant Zoom
Information from the 2026 pre-Congress Zoom meeting hosted by Dr. Collins on July 7, 2026.
- Zoom Recording Folder (includes recording, transcript, and chat)
- Slides (links included in slides)
Previous Congress Programs
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