Kansas City, Mo.

Impressive numbers mark a comeback for the 2021 VitaFerm Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE) after the 2020 numbers were somewhat lower due to the pandemic. This summer’s “Hereford Spectacular” event will be July 3-9 at the American Royal Complex in Kansas City, Mo., with 2,101 entries and 1,755 head registered for the show by 864 junior exhibitors.

These exhibitors come from 41 different states and Canada, one of the largest state representations in JNHE history. This summer showcase provides an opportunity for competition of National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) members and their cattle projects, along with plenty of events for the entire family. Beyond the showring, there are also contests, both virtual and live, to grow the junior members in their leadership, public speaking and other life skills. The virtual contests are underway in preparation for the big event with close to 400 youth participating in extemporaneous speech, illustrated speech, individual sales, peewee speech and the photography contest. In May, junior members interviewed for $28,000 in scholarships from the Hereford Youth Foundation of America that will be awarded at the JNHE.

“We are thrilled to welcome Hereford families back to Kansas City as we get ready to celebrate the 4th of July and the JNHE with our friends from across the country at this Hereford Spectacular event,” says Amy Cowan, American Hereford Association Director of Youth Activities and Foundation.

Gates open at 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 3 and the public is invited to come watch the shows which get underway in Hale Arena, Tuesday, July 6 at 8 a.m. and run through Friday, July 9. For a complete schedule please visit https://hereford.org/youth.