The Nueces County Junior Livestock Show (NCJLS) has been a cornerstone of our community for 90 years, celebrating the hard work, creativity, and talent of our youth. Through their projects, participants engage in STEAM learning, gaining skills that prepare them for future careers in the modern workforce. This historic event not only showcases livestock but also highlights the incredible Homemaking Division, where students demonstrate their skills in arts, crafts, clothing, creative stitchery, photography, and culinary arts.

A Rich History

Since its inception in 1935, the NCJLS has grown into a beloved tradition that fosters community spirit and youth development. Over the decades, the Homemaking Division has expanded, providing students a platform to express their creativity and develop practical skills. Each year, the event brings together participants, families, and volunteers, making it a true celebration of talent and dedication. The projects incorporate elements of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), highlighting the event’s educational impact and its role in preparing students for future success.

Volunteer Opportunities

As we prepare for the 90th Annual NCJLS, we’re calling on our community to help make this year’s event a success. Volunteers are crucial to ensuring the smooth operation of the show’s many exciting components. Here’s how you can get involved:

Alumni Cookoff Judges – January 10, 2025

Judging will take place in the following areas:

Brisket: 3:00 PM

Fajitas: 7:00 PM

Beans: 11:00 AM 

Chicken: 12:00 PM 

Ribs: 1:30 PM

Are you a food enthusiast or an experienced cook? We need volunteers to serve as judges for the Alumni Cookoff. This fun and lively competition is a highlight of the event, where past participants showcase their culinary prowess. Your expertise will help determine this year’s champions and keep the tradition alive.

Homemaking Division Judges – January 13, 2025

This year, we’re thrilled to announce a record-breaking 1,000 food entries! To fairly evaluate these impressive creations, we need enthusiastic and dedicated judges to lend their time and taste buds. It’s an incredible way to connect with our youth and appreciate their hard work firsthand.

Judging will begin at 12:00 PM, and we kindly ask volunteers to commit 1.5 hours to assist in evaluating the entries.

How to Get Involved

Volunteering is easy and rewarding. If you’re interested in being a judge for the Alumni Cookoff or any Homemaking Division category, please contact the NCJLS team at Hope Frances Rangel via email at hope@unitedcorpuschristi.org by January 5, 2025. Training and guidelines will be provided to ensure you feel prepared and supported in your role.

Join the Celebration

Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating 90 years of tradition, community, and talent at the Nueces County Junior Livestock Show. Whether you’re a participant, a judge, or a spectator, your involvement makes this event truly special. Together, we can continue to inspire and support the next generation of leaders and creators.

We can’t wait to see you there!