National 4-H Week
October 4, 2026 - October 10, 2026
For more than 100 years, 4-H has inspired families, shaped careers, and impacted communities. From October 4-10, we will celebrate the impact of 4‑H during National 4‑H Week. The theme of this year’s National 4-H Week is “Beyond Ready.” This theme celebrates how 4-H is building a ready generation in a world of change, equipping youth with skills for the future while meeting them where they are today.
This year, National 4-H Council is asking the 4-H network to activate around two different initiatives.
Monday, October 5: Go Green!
On Monday of National 4-H Week, Go GREEN and show your 4-H State spirit! A simple, cohesive way for youth, professionals, volunteers, alumni & supporters across the country to celebrate their 4-H programs being Beyond Ready. Wear a green hat, clothing, face paint— anything green goes. Let’s paint the nation GREEN, on Monday, October 5! Share your ‘Go Green’ moment on social and tag National 4-H, your State 4-H program, and use: #4HBeyondReady #National4HWeek.
Thursday, October 8: Thankful Thursday
On Thursday of National 4-H Week, help us shine a light on all the mentors, educators and volunteers who are making positive impact on you people’s lives in 4-H. Share who you’re thankful for and celebrate how they are making a difference on Thursday, October 8! Share your ‘Thankful’ story on social, tag others in your 4-H community, tag National 4-H and use: #4HBeyondReady #National4HWeek.
Other Ideas
Here are some other ideas of how you can celebrate 4-H in your community!
- Join Michigan 4-H Alumni & Friends — Were you involved in 4-H as a youth, volunteer or parent? Do you support 4-H and what it does for Michigan youth? If 4‑H has been part of your life—or if you simply care about helping young people thrive—you’re invited to join the Michigan 4-H Alumni and Friends network to get connected by the clover!
- Wear Your 4‑H Gear — Nothing says 4‑H pride like a 4‑H tee! Dress yourself (or the entire family – pets included!) in 4‑H clover gear.
- Shout-Out a 4‑H’er — Recognize the hard work and dedication of 4‑H’ers by shouting out one youth or an entire club on social media, in a local newspaper or other media.
- Storefront Displays/Information Booths — In some communities, you can ask local businesses to display 4‑H posters, flyers, showcase the work of 4-H'ers, or host a table to share information about your local 4‑H program.
- Become a 4‑H Volunteer —If you are a 4‑H alum, parent or recent 4-H ‘graduate’, you might be looking for ways to connect with 4‑H. Consider giving your time to a local 4‑H program by becoming a volunteer.
- Share Your 4‑H Story — Take to social media to share a 4‑H memory, express how 4‑H shaped who you are today, describe what 4‑H means to you, post an old 4‑H photo, or shout-out your 4‑H club.
- Have a 4‑H Reunion — Gather your old 4‑H friends and spend some time together reminiscing on your 4‑H experience or recreate a 4‑H project together!
- Raise Awareness – On October 7, the Michigan 4-H Foundation and MSU Extension will be hosting the fourth Michigan 4-H Day at the Capitol. Join this exciting education and awareness event to help elevate knowledge of Michigan 4-H and share the impact of its programming across Michigan. Learn more online.
- Give Back — Local programs are always looking for resources to continue growing 4-H for the future. Help programs thrive by making a donation that can help support your county 4-H program.
Adapted from National 4-H Council.