SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Sheep producers from more than 20 states will gather at the Illinois State Fairgrounds sheep barn in Springfield, June 6-8, to take part in a popular national sheep extravaganza that’s the largest of its kind. Called “The Event,” the family-oriented weekend is hosted by the non-profit United Suffolk Sheep Association (USSA), the nation’s largest Suffolk sheep registry and membership association, headquartered in Holland, Iowa.

The Event kicks off with a myriad of educational sessions for adults and for youth June 6 at Lincoln Land Community College, 5250 Shepherd Road, in Springfield. Sessions cover topics like how to select and manage ewe flocks, introducing sheep into the flock, managing and assisting with difficult births, understanding immune system responses in sheep, parasite management, plus the outlook for the U.S. lamb market, marketing lamb from farm to table, balancing raising sheep with a career and others.

Youth sessions for participants 8 years old or up will include similar topics on June 6, plus a fun team-oriented Suffolk Olympics and judging clinic set for June 7 near the sheep barn.

Registration fees for The Event include educational sessions and meals, including a Saturday evening banquet honoring Hall of Famers. Register online at: https://suffolks.org/wp/2025/the-suffolk-event-2025/

Anyone may attend the National Suffolk Sale at no charge, set for June 7, starting at about noon Central, in the sheep barn on the Illinois State Fairgrounds. Watch a preview of the 55 high-quality registered Suffolk rams, ewes and wethers consigned by leading sheep breeders from across the U.S. for use as purebred and terminal sires, replacement ewes and show prospects on June 6 at 7 p.m., live streamed on the USSA’s Facebook page. Can’t make it to the sale in-person. Watch the sale and bid online on BreedersWorld.com.

United Junior Suffolk Sheep Association members ages 21 and under will exhibit their Suffolks June 8, starting at 9 a.m., in the sheep barn. USSA will livestream the show on Facebook.com/unitedsuffolk.

For complete details on how to take part in The Event, The National Suffolk Sale bidding and viewing, and all festivities, visit https://suffolks.org/wp/2025/the-suffolk-event-2025/.