Little International, or “Little I” is the largest student run agricultural exposition in the country. It provides the opportunity for 4-H, FFA and college students to compete in judging contests, showmanship events and fitting challenges. The Little International Exposition has been held every year since 1921. There have been only four years when it was not held: 1926, during a scarlet fever outbreak, 1944-1945 because of World War II and in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Little I was originally held in the Livestock Judging Pavilion, now the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum. Due to growth of the event it was moved the Gymnasium/Barn in 1942. Today, it is held in the South Dakota State University Animal Science Arena. The week prior to the exposition includes erecting the red barn and white fence, dying wood chips green for the show ring, setting up bleachers, and making sure every committee task is done before the show begins.
This year Little International is celebrating its 100th exposition. On March 27, 2023, the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum is opening an exhibit celebrating Little International through the years. Visit the Museum and learn about all the fun and excitement of Little I!