The Nevada County Fair is fast approaching and there’s no better way to support “local” than by visiting Treat Street – especially when the 4-H grill is hot with the sizzle of steak and onions. This year, Nevada County 4-H is inviting the public to sample items from the refreshed menu that includes an update to the Philly Cheesesteaks and Strawberry Shortcakes, newly added Mac n’ Cheese, and an expanded breakfast menu that now includes a Berry Parfait and Breakfast Sandwiches.
One of the most notable changes? “This year we are using Amoroso rolls for our Phillies. These special rolls come from Amoroso Bakery — in Philadelphia,” says one of the Food Booth Coordinators, Myranda Ehlers. They must be special with a tag line on the box that reads “Why Philly sandwiches are world-famous.” With USDA Choice Ribeye special cut by SPD Market, melty American Cheese, and the plethora of topping options including bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and hot peppers, there is a combination sure to win over anyone (starting at $12).
Not a big fan of Phillies? Try the Mac n’ Cheese ($8). Cavatappi pasta is mixed with a creamy white cheddar sauce. Breakfast is served “until noon or sold out” according to the menu which also boasts coffee brewed with Caroline’s Sierra Blend beans. A Greek style yogurt parfait features blueberries, strawberries, granola and honey ($8). Or take a Pesto Sammy ($7) to-go! These breakfast sandwiches include your choice of ham or sausage on an English muffin with egg, cheese, and pesto. Breakfast Burritos ($9+) are a returning favorite, of which you can select bacon or sausage to go with eggs, cheese, potatoes, peppers and onions. For dessert, the Shortcake ($8) now features a Southern style waffle biscuit, fresh strawberries, and rich Chantilly style whipped cream.
It’s not only about the food. It’s also about what 4-H represents: community and learning. Youth Officer Vice President Jersey Wiederhold emphasized the importance of the people who make it all come together by explaining, “Our food booth is organized and run by our amazing 4-H volunteers from throughout the county. This means when you stop to get a Philly Cheesesteak, Breakfast Burrito or Mac n’ Cheese, you will meet some of our members – whether that’s an older member getting your coffee or a parent taking your order.”
Even the youngest 4-H members at just five through eight years old will happily hand off straws and condiments from behind the crisp white and green trimmed exterior.
Just a few steps away, you’d probably find the lamb that one of the youth raised for Sunday’s auction, the pygmy goat who is cared for throughout the year, or the poster that offers insight on which treats are best to feed a rabbit (hint: it’s not carrots). This and so much more is part of what the youth are working on in 4-H, where the motto is “to make the best better”.
Food booth proceeds are directed into the 4-H County’s general budget, then allocated to events and resources throughout the 4-H year. Among the budgeted categories are events like Fun Fair, where youth have a chance to build skills in preparation for exhibiting at Nevada County Fair, and Achievement Gala, where youth and valued community members are honored for achievements and contributions to the youth development program. The proceeds also help pay for things like educational materials, equipment for the Shooting Sports program, and scholarships – to camps, leadership conferences, and college. The opportunities are plentiful.
By adding to and updating the menu, 4-H is hoping to deliver on taste, quality, and value for the whole family. Previously mentioned, Fun Fair was held on June 21st and was a chance for 4-H families and youth to experience a trial run of this year’s menu. As one 4-H volunteer, Sarah Bahrman, says, “The Philly Cheesesteaks are packed with meat and veggies, and the Mac n’ Cheese is a favorite of my son’s. I won’t have to spend an excessive amount of time finding something that he will eat. We are so excited for the new offerings Nevada County 4-H has!”
4-H has stated their goal to sell 1,600 Phillies this year, along with other items, to make the 2025 food booth a resounding success.
Visit the Nevada County 4-H Food Booth during the Nevada County Fair, opening Wednesday, August 6th through Sunday, August 10th. The 4-H Food Booth will be open for breakfast and run until 9:30pm every day. Food prices range from $7 and up with options and customizations available like vegetarian, gluten-free, extra protein, and more. Beverages include Coca-Cola sodas, lemonade, coffee, and OJ.
When taking a break from mouth-watering Philly Cheesesteaks, try one of the other fantastic food booths along Treat Street. You can find info here (https://www.nevadacountyfair.com/p/fair/fair-food)
Want to learn more about Nevada County 4-H? Visit: https://ucanr.edu/site/nevada-county-4-h-program