DONNELLSON, Iowa — The 2025 Lee County Fair is gearing up for a full week of action-packed agricultural events, with 4-H and FFA youth taking center stage across multiple species and competitions. From swine shows to stuffed animals, the fairgrounds will be buzzing with activity as young exhibitors showcase their hard work, skills, and dedication to livestock and small animal care.
Festivities kicked off Wednesday, July 2nd with Bucket Bottle Calf Interviews in the morning and Competitive Swine Interviews in the afternoon, giving judges the opportunity to meet with exhibitors ahead of next week’s competitions.
Wednesday, July 9th, will be a busy day, starting at 8:00 a.m. with Swine Weigh-in and Scanning at the Swine Barn. Horses must be on the grounds by 8:30 a.m. in preparation for the 4-H/FFA Horse Show, which begins at 9:00 a.m. Later in the day, sheep and beef will undergo scanning and weigh-ins, culminating in a Mandatory Exhibitor Meeting at 1:00 p.m. at the Horse Arena.
On Thursday, July 10th, the spotlight shines on goats and sheep. The 4-H/FFA Goat Show starts at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Lee County Sheep Producers’ Lamb Dinner running from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Open Bottle Lamb/Goat Show kicks off at 3:30 p.m., with the official 4-H/FFA Sheep Show following at 4:00 p.m.
Friday, July 11th, brings the 4-H/FFA Swine Show at 9:00 a.m. and a hearty Pork Producers Lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The day ends with the Lee County Cattlemen’s Bucket Bottle Calf Show at 6:00 p.m.