More than 2,000 youth will converge in Harrisburg for the 12th Premier National Junior Events and learn the "Artistry of Dairy" over four days of youth-only competitions and contests as part of the 52nd All-American Dairy Show September 12-17 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and Expo Center.

"The All-American offers the next generation of dairy producers the chance to shine through the Premier National Junior Events," said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. "This year's show theme recognizes that dairying is as much an art as it is a science. The show hosts several different junior events that will engage youth in the ‘Artistry of Dairy.'"

Youth event highlights include:


  • Premier National Junior Show

    The Premier National Junior Show gives youth a chance to showcase their animals against those of their peers. Breeds show Monday, September 14, concluding with the Supreme Champion Pageant at 3 PM. Supreme Champion of the Junior Show receives a $2,000 cash prize, while Supreme Champion Heifer receives a $500 cash prize. Grand champions of each breed receive a $500 savings bond. Best Bred and Owned of each breed also receives a $150 prize.

  • Youth Showmanship Contest

    The largest youth showmanship contest in North America begins at 9:30 AM on Sunday, September 13. The national-level contest is divided into three age levels: Juniors 8-11, Intermediates 12-15, and Seniors 16-21. Top 10 winners in each age group are recognized, with the selected seniors competing in an additional fitting component. The overall senior champion is selected by a combination of the fitting and showmanship scores.

  • Dairy Management Contest

    Youth learn about the commercial side of dairying through the Junior Dairy Management Contest on Tuesday, September 15 starting at 9 AM. Categories include meats evaluation and quality assurance, feed and nutrition, Dairy Herd Information records and benchmarks, farm business management and dairy cattle judging and linear type classes. Premiums are awarded for both teams and individuals, with the high scoring individual receiving a $1,000 scholarship.

  • Dairy Judging Forum
    The 4-H and FFA Dairy Judging Forum offers youth an opportunity to evaluate some of the nation's finest cattle on September 15 at 9 AM. After each class, expert judges work through the classes with youth to help them improve their skills.


Entry forms for the Dairy Management Contest and Dairy Judging Forum are available at www.allamerican.state.pa.us under "Forms and Brochures." Entries are due Friday, September 4.

  • Spotlight on Youth

    The Spotlight on Youth kicks off the Premier National Junior Events Saturday, September 12 at 6 PM by teaching participants about youth programs available in the dairy industry. It includes pizza and snacks.


Stay up-to-date with show events through the All-American Dairy Show app for Apple and Google mobile devices. Search "All American Dairy" in the app store, like the show on Facebook and follow it on Twitter.

The All-American Dairy Show features 22 shows in six days in addition to the nation's only all-dairy antiques show. Last year's show featured nearly 3,000 animals and 1,500 exhibitors from around the country.
Return to Industry Buzz.

7.20.2015