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POLK COUNTY—This week, Polk County 4-H announced the schedule for its upcoming 2025 Summer Sparks event. This event is an opportunity for youth ages 5-18 to engage in a variety of classes and workshops. 

This year’s program is designed to ignite creativity and inspire young minds, welcoming participants of all backgrounds and levels of prior 4-H experience. 

The June lineup includes a variety of classes. Textile Treasures will take place from June 3-5, running from 9 a.m. to noon for ages nine and up, costing $5. Participants can upcycle old hoodies or sweatshirts into vibrant, wearable masterpieces. Clover Kitchen: Beginner Bootcamp will be held on June 10-11 from 9 a.m. to noon for ages nine and up, for $7. This class is perfect for those new to the kitchen, focusing on basic culinary skills, kitchen safety, and easy recipes. Clover Kitchen: Level Up! takes place on June 12-13 from 9 a.m. to noon for ages nine and up, costing $7. For returning kitchen enthusiasts, this class will dive deeper into meal planning, budgeting, and more advanced dishes.

Wild Wonders will run from June 10-12, 2 to 5 p.m., for ages nine and up, and costs $10. Young eco-enthusiasts will explore the outdoors, engaging in activities like water testing and park clean-ups. Cloverbud Camp is scheduled for June 24-25 for ages 5-8 and costs $5. This mini-camp for the youngest 4-H’ers will include hatching chicks, building rockets, and exciting water games.

The excitement continues in July with activities such as Roots and Routes from July 1-3, running from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for ages nine and up, costing $15. Participants can join a bus tour of local farms, learning about ag tourism and agribusiness’s pivotal role in the community. Another offering, 4-H Hooves & Halters, will take place from July 15-17 from 9 a.m. to noon for ages 10 and up, at no cost. Participants will explore livestock care with hands-on experiences and learn about showmanship and agricultural careers.

Polk County 4-H promises more fun with surprise pop-up classes throughout the summer, featuring Goat Club, Rabbit Club, Horse Club, and more activities. A special Youth Canning Class will also teach participants how to preserve their delicious creations. Local youth are invited to get involved, learn, and create lasting memories this summer through the Polk County 4-H program. 

Parents interested in enrolling their children can create an account or re-enroll in 4-H Online. For those not currently in a club, select “Polk County Members at Large.” New accounts will need approval before registering for classes. 

Once approved, participants can log in to 4-H Online and navigate to the Events tab to sign up for workshops under “2025 Summer Sparks at Polk County 4-H.” Returning members can head directly to the Events tab. Classes tend to fill quickly, so early registration is encouraged.

For any questions, Jessica Jackson is available for assistance at 828-894-8218 or by emailing jessica_j_jackson@ncsu.edu.