Lowcountry 4-H Convention

Lowcountry families will have a new opportunity to explore 4-H programs, hands-on STEM learning and community resources when the inaugural 2026 Lowcountry 4-H Convention comes to Citadel Mall in Charleston on Sept. 19.

Hosted by the South Carolina 4-H Youth Development Program and Clemson Cooperative Extension, the free event will bring together youth, families, educators, businesses and community organizations from across the region. Organizers aim to expand awareness of 4-H opportunities while strengthening community partnerships and supporting positive youth development.

The convention will serve residents in Charleston, Dorchester, Berkeley, Colleton, Hampton and surrounding counties. Visitors can watch youth compete, take part in Clemson Extension workshops, explore hands-on STEM activities, connect with local organizations and learn about resources available to families across the Lowcountry.

“This convention is an exciting opportunity for our communities to experience the breadth of programs and resources available through South Carolina 4-H and Clemson Cooperative Extension,” said Tawanah Reeves-Ligon, Dorchester County 4-H Youth Development agent and convention director. “Whether families are interested in STEM, agriculture, leadership, healthy living, community resources, or simply learning more about 4-H, there will be something for everyone.”

What visitors can expect

• Lowcountry 4-H Cooking Competition and Lowcountry 4-H Poster Contest.
• Educational workshops at the Clemson Extension TEACH Center.
• Taste of 4-H: STEM Edition experiences in partnership with Reforge Charleston.
• A back-to-school giveaway in partnership with I Serve With Joy.
• A Vendor Market and Community Resources Fair featuring local businesses, nonprofits, schools and service organizations.

Families who are new to 4-H can attend Taste of 4-H: STEM Edition sessions for hands-on STEM activities and information about local 4-H clubs, projects and programs. The convention theme, “Building a #BeyondReady Community,” reflects 4-H’s focus on helping young people build skills, confidence and connections for future success.

The Community Resources Fair will give nonprofits, schools, educational organizations and community groups a free opportunity to connect with local families. The Vendor Market will feature small businesses, artisans, farmers and entrepreneurs from across the region.

Registration and participation

Youth and families can register for workshops, contests and Taste of 4-H: STEM Edition. Businesses and organizations can register for the Vendor Market or Community Resources Fair. Booth registration remains open, and additional workshop registration opportunities are available.

For sponsorships, vendor booths, community fair participation or event information, contact Tawanah Reeves-Ligon at tawanar@clemson.edu or 864-784-0615.

About South Carolina 4-H

South Carolina 4-H is the youth development program of Clemson Cooperative Extension. Through hands-on learning in STEM, healthy living, agriculture, leadership and civic engagement, 4-H helps young people develop the skills and confidence to contribute to their communities.