The Annual Miss 4-H Pageant is held with support of the City of Clinton at the Gilliam Center located on Thornwell Home for Children’s campus with an average of 45 young women representing counties from across the state. The pageant is not judged on beauty, but solely on stage presence and communication skills of the contestants. Throughout evening the young ladies dress in business, 4-H project, and formal attire to showcase their skills. The 4-H project attire reflects the 4-H member’s work through their experience in 4-H. During the formal attire division, the members are asked questions about their 4-H experience and how it has helped them plan for the future.

Young men also join their fellow 4-H female members to assist in escorting the contestants on to the stage and to present the flags during the opening ceremonies. Each of these members are selected from all over South Carolina. These 4-H’ers show excellent stage presence and entertainment during the pageant. 

Over 200 audience members watch as the young men and women showcase their talent in communication and stage presentation. The contestants, their families and audience members utilize the local hotels, restaurants and businesses while attending the events. Last year upon registering for the event contestants where then mailed a City of Clinton tourism guide. Of the contestants in 2015 contest, only 6 were from Laurens County. On average, each contestant brought 5 audience members with them which equals over 200 individuals visiting our wonderful county.

All proceeds for this event go to support Laurens County 4-H members to attend leadership conferences, national contests and 4-H camp.