Social studies fairs provide opportunities for citizenship education and for involvement in activities that emphasize thinking and inquiry skills. The Louisiana local, regional, and state social studies fairs present exhibitions of projects prepared by elementary and secondary school students to portray applications of basic principles, generalizations, or research in studies of people in relation to their environment. This document presents: (1) the social studies fair goals; (2) fair rules and regulations for teachers and students; (3) an explanation of various social studies disciplines; (4) information about local and regional fairs; (5) a description of awards; and (6) information for regional fair directors. Forms for fair entries and judging are included. A guide to social studies projects includes information about: (1) project design; (2) displays; (3) size and weight requirements; (4) research papers; (5) oral presentations; and (6) parent involvement. Titles of 1986 fair projects, a map of Louisiana regional fair areas, a list of fair directors, and charts are also included. (JHP)