SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — If you were near the Illinois State Fairgrounds this past weekend, you may have noticed thousands of sheep, and license plates from across the nation.

Springfield was home to this year’s All American Junior Sheep Show, which saw wool and smiles everywhere. Hundreds of people and thousands of sheep showed up from July 3-6, as it was Illinois’ turn to host this annual event.

“We filled up three barns with 3,000 head of sheep of kids that are four to 21-years-old from 25 states all over the country,” said Melanie Hall of Moweaqua. “This a pure bread, breeding sheep show. Just kids, and some of the breeds have their national shows here.”

A familiar face was at this event as well. Kade Beckmier, who was named the newest FFA Star Farmer, was at the Illinois State Fairgrounds competing in both showmanship and sheep.