The University of Delaware, especially staff across Cooperative Extension, are annual regulars at the Delaware State Fair in Harrington. The celebration attracts exhibitors across agriculture, horticulture, mechanical arts, and rural and domestic economy. Embracing the event’s 2023 theme of “Farmlands and Fair Fans,” UD will showcase its statewide programming and extension work.

Well-known for its downstate presence, the UD College of Agriculture and Natural Resources proudly carries out the University’s land-grant university mission of teaching, research and extension. From nutrition classes and Master Naturalist education to 4-H youth clubs and local agriculture programs, Cooperative Extension annually showcases University resources and shares its knowledge with attendees. 

Extension agents and staff provide year-round support to Delaware farmers through expert advice, educational courses, certification opportunities and mental health support. The fair, which runs this year from Thursday, July 20 through Saturday, July 29, is a chance to bring the same knowledge in-person to hordes of fair fans as UD experts showcase health, wellbeing, leadership and environmental stewardship research and programming.

Take a sneak peek at Extension’s 2023 Delaware State Fair offerings.

Ask an Expert

Fairgoers can find the Delaware Cooperative Extension booth in the Agricultural Commodities Building (AG). This colorful exhibit, renovated with artwork by UD’s own Serena Conner, is Extension’s fair home base.

“This is an opportunity for both the University of Delaware and Delaware State University Cooperative Extension programs to highlight their work,” said Jennifer Volk, Extension’s interim director and an environmental quality specialist. “As the state’s two land-grant universities, we often collaborate on projects. This is an opportunity to celebrate this partnership and spread the word about what we can offer.”

Visitors can chat with extension agents in person and ask questions about agriculture, natural resources, health and wellness, and youth development. Giveaways include larger prizes reserved for those who play “Extension Jeopardy.” Sign up for the annual raffle to win a basket stuffed with local delicacies and goodies.

Try a new recipe

Summer in Delaware is a uniquely bountiful time. In addition to the abundance of local chicken farms across Delmarva, fruits and vegetables are in season. If you aren’t sure what to do with your produce, stop by the Agricultural Commodities Building (AG) for live cooking demonstrations.

• July 20: Natasha Lamadie demonstrates watermelon salsa, watermelon cucumber salad and watermelon cake.

• July 22: Statewide poultry agent Georgie Cartanza gives a poultry demonstration.

• July 24: Michelle Voegele cooks zesty corn and spinach sauté.

• July 26: Jerri Husch teaches guests how to cook quickie veggie fritters.

• July 28: Emily Peterson and Susan Trone tag-team herbal vinegars.

Elevate your green thumb

For gardening questions, ask the Delaware Master Gardeners, Extension-educated volunteers who provide research-based horticultural education, guidance, and resources. Ask them anything from pest and disease management to selecting ornamentals and native plants for your garden. The Master Gardeners program boasts more than 300 Delawareans rigorously trained in various horticultural and environmental topics specific to our region. Their landscape design demonstration garden near the Grandstand and Hertrich Plaza is a testament to their expertise.

Cool off with 4-H

One of Cooperative Extension’s most recognizable contributions to the State Fair each year is the plethora of Delaware 4-H exhibits, showcases and events. Representing the First State in the largest youth program in the country, the talent and dedication of Delaware 4-H members is on display in the Centre Ice Arena, known during fair week as the 4-H/FFA Building (CTR). Cool off in this air-conditioned facility and explore the work of these talented young people. 

“These exhibits and competitions are the highlight of our 4-H year. Our members demonstrate their personal growth and share the knowledge gained through their hard work," said Doug Crouse, State 4-H Youth Development Program Leader.

In the Delaware State Fair App’s events section, scroll down to 4-H for a complete list of events. On Kids Day (Tuesday, July 25), join 4-H Healthy Habits and Prevention at Hertrich Plaza from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for games, resources and giveaways focused on building healthier, happier kids!

Scope out the competition

Throughout the year, extension agents also work with local middle and high school students to prepare for State Fair competitions in plant, insect and disease identification, landscape design and other topics. This partnership with Delaware educators provides a meaningful way for students to interact with professionals in their field of interest, developing skills and knowledge as they move into adulthood and into the working world. Many of these students compete in FFA or public events during fair week.

Cool off with UDairy 

From 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, visit the always popular UDairy Creamery at the fair on Holloway Street across from the Kent Building. Try a single or double scoop of Delaware River Mud Pie, 1923, All Nighter, First State Cobbler, Peanut Cocoa Loco, Butter Pecan, Sweet Corn and many other flavors. As you enjoy your frozen treat, visit the University of Delaware table in the University of Delaware Building (DEB) near The Grange.

A comprehensive list of all exhibits and events is available in the Delaware State Fair mobile app and schedule.

Throughout the 2023 Delaware State Fair, follow UD Cooperative Extension and Delaware 4-H on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @UDExtension and @Delaware4H.