For just over four decades, Washita County residents have been gathering for the annual 4-H Bean Supper and Carnival. This year’s event is slated Oct. 28 at the Washita County Activity Center in Cordell.
Dana Church, Washita County 4-H Youth Development educator with Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension, said the meal will be served from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and will feature brown beans, cornbread, baked potatoes, coleslaw and a variety of homemade desserts provided by the 4-H clubs. The carnival will take place from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
“This is a great fall family event that is a long-standing tradition for many families in Washita County. Our 4-H’ers, parents and volunteers work hard to ensure everyone is wellfed and children have a lot of fun at the carnival,” she said. “This year’s carnival will include a bounce house, photo booth, ring toss, dart games, bowling, cake walk and much more. Our 4-H’ers put in a lot of effort into planning and organizing the games.”
Tickets are available from local 4-H club members or at the door. Meal tickets are $5 and preschool and under eat free. For unlimited carnival games, a wristband will be available for $5. Individual games tickets will be 50 cents per ticket, or three tickets for $1.
Carnival participants will get prize tickets after playing the games that can be used to shop for small toys at a store operated by 4-H’ers.
“This event is a great way for our club members to work on public speaking skills, as well as for all clubs to come together and collaborate together,” Church said.
This is the largest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds will fund the supplies for competitions, camps and workshops that the county 4-H sponsors, as well as awards and recognitions throughout the year.
Throughout Washita County’s 4-H History, the 4-H program has developed positive role models by offering innovative and inspiring programs, which builds character and instills values that have made our county and state strong and great!
Church said the fall Washita County 4-H Donation drive is going on now. Donations are being accepted at the Washita County Extension Office, 125 W Main in Cordell. Donors will be recognized by Washita County 4-H throughout the year, receive two free bean supper tickets and possibly a 4-H t-shirt with their name on it depending on the sponsor level.
“Our 4-H program wouldn’t be nearly as successful without the support of our donors, and on behalf of the Washita County 4-H Program, I extend our sincere thank you to every person and entity that contributes to our success,” Church said.
For more information, contact Church at 580-832-3356.