Welcome to the Chicago Metro History Fair – Where students become historians!

Read why History Fair Projects are different from other school assignments:

• Students may choose their own topic based on what's important to them that is related to Chicago or Illinois history.

• Students go to places outside the school to do research with actual sources and can interview scholars, experts, and participants or witnesses.

• Student decide on their own interpretations--they don't just "report back" what others have written.

• Student may choose how to present their historical arguments through real projects--just as real historians do: writing papers, producing a play or documentary, or building a website or exhibit.

• Students compete in public contests, and have the opportunity to advance to higher levels of competition in Springfield and Washington, D.C., win cash prizes, secure a college scholarship.

• History Fair students perform better on standardized tests; gain better research and critical thinking skills; and have a better interest in history and civic engagement. Click here to read more about NHD's Key Evaluation Findings.

It's the real thing!  That's why History Fair is so different than many school assignments!