Jackpot Shows 101 and the Value of Participation

Every year, hundreds (if not thousands) of FFA and 4-H youth get the chance to win some money and practice showing their livestock to actual judges at real-life events. These are called Jackpot shows. You’ll find them throughout the Northwest. Here’s what to expect at these shows and how they help prepare participants for fair.

What are Jackpot Shows


They say America is baseball and apple pie. But in our humble experience, it’s also Jackpot Shows. These youth livestock exhibition events typically span one weekend, are open to youth of all ages, and are the perfect way to practice showing steer, lamb, goat, and hog in the months and weeks leading up to fair.

Every Jackpot Show has an entry fee, which is used to pay the judges and cover some of the costs of the facility. Additionally, there are cash prizes for 4-H and FFA participants who win their division or category. Of course, there are specific rules at every Jackpot Show, but once you arrive, those organizing the event fill in participants and help guide them through the process. This is supposed to be practice, after all.

What Participants Get in Return


Those who show their animals at a Jackpot Show get the opportunity to show off their hard work, practice in the arena, as well as understand the judging process. Plus, any money won at the event can be used for feed and other livestock needs as participants inch closer to fair and beyond. Other opportunities include clinics on feeding, care, preparation, and livestock management.

Best of all, these are family-friendly, weekend-away events that can take you all over the Northwest. The more Jackpot Shows a youth goes to, the more they’ll learn about raising livestock, showing, and winning at fair.

Coastal Cares about Youth Ag

Coastal is a proud sponsor of Pacwest Showman and the Jackpot Shows throughout the Northwest. Check out the upcoming schedule of events and sign up for one or more near you. If you’re in 4-H, FFA, OHSET, or WAHSET, you can get a 20% Coastal Coupon to help purchase show outfits, as well as 5% back in Coastal cash on eligible project purchases. See our site for more.