Citizenship Congress
Developed in 1972 to unite 4-H members from across the country, this national annual gathering is an opportunity for youth to strengthen their citizenship skills, connections, and identity.
In alignment with the mission of all 4-H Canada youth programs, the central aim of the Citizenship Congress is to enable delegates to put into practice the skills and knowledge they acquire, transforming them into responsible, caring, contributing members, and citizens within their local communities through hands-on learning experiences, delegates engage with each other, parliamentarians, Knowledge Keepers, and business leaders all set against the backdrop of the nation's capital.
Citizenship Congress 2026
Date: May 11-16, 2026
Location: Ottawa, ON
Open to: 4-H members ages 15-21
How to get involved: Reach out to your provincial organization to learn more!
Explore the Program!
Youth will participate in hands-on experiences, workshops, tours, and mentorship opportunities that will strengthen their connections with other participants, while deepening their understanding of Canadian culture, politics and society. Programmatic aspects that members can anticipate:
- Parliament Hill tour
- Youth Consultancy – a chance for youth to speak their mind, and share their voices with stakeholders and supporters of 4-H
- Have focused programming on the real-world effects of youth involvement in civic and community efforts.
Members will
- Be encouraged to share their unique perspectives and insights, fostering meaningful connections with experts and emphasizing how collaboration can amplify their impact both locally and globally
- Be empowered to develop new skills and knowledgeBe provided with valuable knowledge and insight into Canada’s history, political system, and cultural landscape.
- Will have the opportunity to connect with parliamentarians, meet representatives from the agriculture industry,
- Participants could experience Indigenous farming, participate in a Citizenship Ceremony, attend Question Period, engage in mock debates in the Senate, and more.
- Will have the opportunity to emphasize Canada’s diversity, provincial delegations will present information about their respective provinces
- Develop action plans to carry forward their learnings and initiatives after the event.