County fairs are community celebrations that brings everyone together each year. Citizens come together to socialize, learn and enjoy good local food and entertainment. It's events like these that many rural families plan their schedules around each year. But county fairs are more than blue ribbons.  Because the 4-H Council and FFA Council had to organize the entire show this year, things were a little different.  We offered eighteen different games with prizes that were run by local churches, politicians, 4-H parents and members, FFA members, and 4-H alumni.  We also had bouncie houses and a mechanical bull which we had sponsored.  Gallatin County Tourism sponsored the various pageants. We had a dunking booth for the local politicians which everyone enjoyed and donated approximately $500 for next year’s 4-H/FFA showcase.   As a thank you, each politician received a 4-H towel.  There were 25 gift baskets from local businesses, organizations and local artists, for the first time ever silent auction with a total of over $1200 raised to help with ribbons, prizes, and games. The livestock auction raised over $51,000 to help our 4-H/FFA livestock members with their animals for next year.  Nine 4-H livestock members are planning on showing their animal at the Kentucky State Fair which is an increase of two more members.  Gallatin County 4-H Drill Team has eight members and performed each night and plan to perform in local parades and other county fairs.  A 4-H member was the photographer for the 4-H/FFA  livestock show with her photos appearing in the local newspaper. There were more  4-H, FFA and open class exhibits  than in past years. This event was over three nights with approximately 300 people each night.  The Gallatin County 4-H/FFA Showcase was about more than the ribbons, trophies, and revenue though.  It was about family fun and building relationships throughout the county. It was also about agricultural advocacy which gives our young people a platform to share their knowledge in livestock, art, cooking and more. .