Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds Announces Forest River, Inc. & Peter J. Liegl Ag & Community Expo
GOSHEN, Ind. — The Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds announced plans for the Forest River, Inc. & Peter J. Liegl Ag & Community Expo, a new 47,500-square-foot facility designed to expand agricultural programming, support youth development, and create new opportunities for regional events and tourism in Elkhart County.
The expansion project, which includes infrastructure improvements across the campus, is scheduled to break ground September 11, 2026, with completion anticipated by summer 2027 ahead of the Elkhart County 4-H Fair.
Jointly named in honor of Forest River, Inc. and its late founder, Peter J. Liegl, the facility reflects their shared, longstanding commitment of both Forest River and the Liegl family to Elkhart County and their collective legacy of community leadership. Through this recognition, Forest River and Peter J. Liegl are honored as champions of youth education and leadership, stewards of agriculture and community tradition, and long-term supporters in Elkhart County’s future.
“Forest River and the Liegl family have long been part of the fabric of Elkhart County,” said Mark Kritzman, Forest River representative and Elkhart County 4-H Fair Foundation Chair. “Recognizing their name on this facility reflects a shared commitment to supporting young people, honoring our agricultural heritage, and investing in the strength of our community.”
The entire project is being funded through private donations, grants, and Fairground resources, with a significant portion of the goal already secured through a capital campaign. Community members and partners interested in learning more, following project updates, or contributing to the effort can visit 4hfair.org/expansion.
“Following the recent renovation and expansion of the ECCC building, the addition of the Ag & Community Expo will continue expanding space for 4-H programming and year-round events while positioning the Fairgrounds to better serve local families and organizations and attract additional regional events, including trade shows and RV rallies,” said Shelly Steury, General Manager of the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds.
Together, these improvements reflect the Fairgrounds’ ongoing commitment to agriculture, youth development, and community engagement while positioning the campus for continued growth in events, programming, and tourism for years to come.