Welcome To The NRI 4-H Fair

Since 1904, the fair has brought together families, farmers, youth, and friends to celebrate Foster's rural traditions, agricultural roots, and tight-knit community spirit.

Whether you're joining us for the first time or the fiftieth, explore our exhibits, cheer on 4-H youth, enjoy local food (yes — the famous clam cakes and chowder!), and experience one of Rhode Island's oldest fair traditions.

This is where history lives, youth shine, and the community comes together.

About The Fair

The Northern Rhode Island (NRI) 4-H Fair has been a part of Foster’s rich tradition since 1904, when it began as a community dinner fundraiser for the town hall, organized as part of the town’s Old Home Days celebration.

Over the years, this gathering evolved into what is now a full-fledged fair, still renowned for serving its original clam chowder and clam cake recipe on Friday nights — a beloved tradition that has remained unchanged for over a century.

The fair is guided by two dedicated groups: the Old Home Days Committee, which oversees the event as a whole, and the NRI 4-H Committee, which organizes and hosts all 4-H-related youth programming, shows, and activities.

While the exact date of the collaboration between Old Home Days and 4-H is not documented, the partnership has continued to support local agriculture, education, and community involvement, making the fair a living celebration of Foster’s past, present, and future.

History of 4-H

Since 4‑H began more than 100 years ago, it has become the nation’s largest youth development organization. The 4‑H mission is to help young people and their families develop the skills needed to build stronger communities and a more innovative economy.

The Smith-Lever Act of 1914 established the Cooperative Extension System at the USDA, bringing 4‑H to the national stage. By 1924, 4‑H clubs were forming, and the iconic 4-H clover emblem was adopted.

In Rhode Island, 4-H programs have been active since the early 1920s, teaching life skills and shaping future leaders ever since.

4-H Youth Programs

Rhode Island 4-H offers children and teens hands-on learning experiences in agriculture, science, leadership, and more.

Youth can join:

Community clubs
After-school programs
Or become independent members.

4-H focuses on building life skills through fun, educational projects and activities. The program also provides adult volunteer opportunities that empower the next generation.

Whether you're a parent, teen, or local resident, there's a way for you to join the 4-H community:

Enroll your child (ages 5–18) in a 4-H club or program.
Volunteer as a mentor or organizer
Donate or become a sponsor of the NRI 4-H Fair.

Our volunteers and members keep this century-old tradition alive. Help us grow!

Meet Our Fair Supervisors

Nicole Wahtera – Rabbit
Mikayla Kelsall – Sheep & Goat
Shelly Fitzgerald – Poultry
Chip Tucker – Swine
Khaelan Tucker – Beef
Destiny Sincavage – Dairy
Shaunna Vanasse – Exhibit Hall