By Andi Anderson
The 2025 State 4-H Livestock Skillathon Contest invites young livestock enthusiasts from across Illinois to showcase their skills and knowledge on November 8, 2025, at the University of Illinois Stock Pavilion in Urbana-Champaign.
Organized by the State 4-H Livestock Ambassador Team in partnership with the University of Illinois Department of Animal Sciences, the event offers a fun and educational experience for all participants.
Designed to prepare youth for the Superior Young Producers Skillathon held annually at the Illinois State Fair, this contest helps participants strengthen their understanding of livestock production, management, and evaluation.
The event will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with a $15 entry fee, which includes lunch. Registration closes on November 3, 2025.
The Skillathon is open to all Illinois 4-H members and is divided into three age divisions:
- Junior Division: Ages 8–11
- Intermediate Division: Ages 12–14
- Senior Division: Ages 15–18
Banners will be awarded to the top five individuals in each division, recognizing their hard work and achievement.
Participants will take part in a variety of hands-on and interactive challenges, including livestock identification, breed and feed recognition, equipment identification, and knowledge quizzes.
In addition, a short educational workshop will follow the contest, giving youth a chance to expand their learning and ask questions.
Contestants are encouraged to bring a notebook, pencil, and clipboard to record their observations and notes during the event.
The 4-H Livestock Skillathon fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and agricultural literacy among youth, helping them develop valuable skills for future careers in animal science and agriculture.
For more details and registration information, visit the University of Illinois Extension website and click the orange “Learn More” button on the event page.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle