The Harlan County Junior Fair is held at the fairgrounds in Orleans, not at the county seat of Alma, from late July into the start of August. It is run formally as a junior fair, centered on 4-H and youth exhibitors, with beef, goat, horse, sheep, swine and small animal shows, static exhibits, a Showing With the Stars event and the junior fair livestock auction. Curiously, the 4-H horse show is held a fortnight ahead of the fair at the Beaver City fairgrounds rather than on the Orleans grounds. Lead-up events through the year include a beef weigh-in, a favorite foods contest, fashion and talent, a bike rodeo and a public speaking contest. Nebraska Extension in Harlan County administers it on 308-928-2119.