Ohio State Fair Information can be found HERE!
The vision of the Ohio Expo Center & State Fair is to be recognized as a unique, dynamic and profitable facility committed to creating a nationally-recognized event venue; and to produce a premier agricultural-based fair showcasing the best of Ohio with a world-class visitor experience.
Accessible Playground
10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Natural Resources ParkThis playground features low-impact, easy-to-access entertainment for children. Whether kids are searching for remarkable fossils, navigating a path through a maze of towering barrels, exploring a mini truck or pretending to camp under the stars after an unforgettable canoe adventure in a life-size boat, there are opportunities to unwind and experience imaginative play in this newly constructed oil and gas themed area of the Natural Resources Park.
All-Ohio State Fair Band & Youth Choir
Performance times vary
The All-Ohio State Fair Youth Choir and All-Ohio State Fair Band arrive just days before the Fair opens, learning all of their music in a limited time. They perform daily at various times and locations, with nearly 200 total performances held during the 12-day Fair.
Camel Rides
10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Kiddieland
No need to wait for Wednesday to celebrate 'hump day' at the Fair! Camel rides are offered for $10 per ride.
“The Dunk”
10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Natural Resources Park
Visit the Natural Resources Park's newest resident! A life-size sculpture of Dunkleosteus terrelli ("the Dunk"), Ohio's official State Fossil Fish, is now on display at the Geological Walk Through Time exhibit. Get up close to one of Ohio's most ferocious ancient predators!
Governor's Children's Passport
The Governor’s Children’s Passport is a great way to navigate the fair while providing your kids with fun activities along the way! Children who complete their passport and turn it in will have a chance at one of our many prizes! Visit the Guest Information Services Booths or one of the Children’s Initiatives partner agency booths (Ohio Department of Agriculture, Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, Ohio Department of Education, Ohio Department of Health, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, Ohio Department of Medicaid, Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Ohio Department of Higher Education, Ohio Department of Commerce, andOhio Department of Development) to receive your passport today!Helicopter Rides
10 a.m. - Midnight, Located inside Gate 3
These views are unbeatable! Hop in a helicopter to see the Ohio State Fair and downtown Columbus like never before. This scenic ride takes passengers to heights beyond the midway's tallest ride. Helicopter rides are $50 per rider.
Kayak Pond
10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Natural Resources Park
Grab a life jacket and try one of the fastest growing activities in the country – kayaking. Paddlers of all ages (50" tall minimum, 300 lbs. maximum) can kayak daily. Those interested must check in at the Discovery Pavilion in the Natural Resources Park.
Kids’ Fishing Pond
10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Natural Resources ParkKids age 14 and younger may fish daily for bluegill from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. using cane poles and tackle provided by the ODNR Division of Wildlife. If you catch a fish, an Ohio wildlife officer will help you take if off the hook. You can leave the fish in the live well, or take it home and fix it for dinner!
Lady Houdini — Escape Artist
Monday through Friday, 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., south end of KiddielandSaturday and Sunday, 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., south end of Kiddieland
As a real escapologist, Lady Houdini has made her name performing daredevil-like acts as she flirts with near death experiences through her masterful escape performances.
Land & Living Exhibit
10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Nationwide® Donahey Land & Living presented by Ohio Farm Bureau
This highly interactive exhibit is packed with agricultural education activities the whole family can enjoy. Visitors will see, experience and learn about caring for animals on the farm, how science and technology are helping farmers produce safe food while enhancing our environmental resources, how scientists are researching solutions to our biggest food and farming challenges, and how young people can have careers in agriculture. Visitors can experience planting crops in a tractor simulator, shopping in an interactive grocery store, and recording their State Fair memories with a free photograph before leaving the exhibit.
This highly interactive exhibit is packed with agricultural education activities the whole family can enjoy. Visitors will see, experience and learn about caring for animals on the farm, how science and technology are helping farmers produce safe food while enhancing our environmental resources, how scientists are researching solutions to our biggest food and farming challenges, and how young people can have careers in agriculture. Visitors can experience planting crops in a tractor simulator, shopping in an interactive grocery store, and recording their State Fair memories with a free photograph before leaving the exhibit.
Little Farmers
10 a.m. – 7 p.m., Voinovich Livestock & Trade Center Lawn
This hands-on educational exhibit, targeted toward kids ages 3 to 10, allows youth to explore different aspects of Ohio agriculture. Families will navigate through eight different stations featuring simulated animals, real grains, gardening, and more, with the opportunity to pick a small prize at the final station.
Lumberjack Show
See daily schedule for show times, Natural Resources Park
Catch lumberjacks in action as they entertain crowds with fast-paced log rolling, chainsaw carving and wood chopping. This family-friendly show will take place in the amphitheater.
Marvelous Mutts
Noon, 2 p.m., and 6 p.m., The Dog HouseFeaturing a team of talented rescue dogs who have performed on Animal Planet, The Late Show, Good Morning America, The Today Show, and more, the Marvelous Mutts show entertains all ages with its variety of impressive canine tricks and stunts.
Monster Mural
11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Lausche Youth Exploration Space Lawn (closes at 4 p.m. on Aug. 6)Kids will jump at the chance to make their artistic mark on a giant Fair mural each day (with washable paint, of course).
Natural Resources Park
10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Enjoy free fishing for kids, kayaking, archery, a butterfly house, and so much more in this beautiful eight-acre park maintained by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Enjoy native Ohio wildlife, a geological walkway, a camping village and a tall grass prairie. The outdoor amphitheater hosts free music and entertaining programs, such as the popular lumberjack show, throughout each day of the State Fair. (times of activities vary)
Ohio Proud Farmer’s Market
Thursday through Saturday, Taste of Ohio Cafe
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Purchase farm-fresh produce from Ohio growers across the state, Thursday through Saturday only.Ohio Proud General Store
11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Taste of Ohio Cafe
Shop for local products, like honey, salsa, dip mixes, and more from Ohio Proud vendors. Each day of the fair, Ohio products will be available for sale – so stop by any day for a selection of great products grown and made in our great state.
OVMA Veterinary Education Center
9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Wick Pavilion
Witness the miracle of birth and visit new and expectant farm animal mothers and their young at this educational exhibit near the Dairy Products Building. You can even milk a real cow from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.!
Ohio State Beekeepers Association
10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Nationwide® DonaheyLand & Living presented by Ohio Farm BureauLearn how to start and maintain your own beehive, as well as the importance of bees to our ecosystem, while having fun!
Pig Races
Monday - Friday: 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m., 6:30 p.m., Saturday - Sunday: 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., KiddielandThree different breeds of swifty swine race around the track for a prize. Cheer on your favorite little porker!
Petting Zoo
10 a.m. - 10 p.m. (open until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday), KiddielandThe free Petting Zoo features more than 50 animals from around the world including goats, llamas, zebras, antelope, kangaroos and much more.
Smokey Bear
10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Natural Resources ParkThe Ohio State Fair is full of tradition. For many families, one notable tradition is to be greeted by name by the iconic Smokey Bear in Natural Resources Park. In fact, he is one of only two talking Smokey Bears in the country! Make it a point this year to visit Smokey Bear any day of the Ohio State Fair.
Tiny Town presented by AAA
10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Youth Exploration Space (closes at 6 p.m. on Aug. 6)Come join us at Tiny Town presented by AAA filled with playhouses, Cozy Coupes, and play gas pumps. Kids can enjoy some play time while the adults relax!
Touch-a-Truck
10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Youth Exploration Space Lawn (closes at 6 p.m. on Aug. 6)Bring the kids to explore different types of vehicles from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio Department of Agriculture, and more.
Walk on Water - Water Bubbles
Located behind Main Street Stage near the helicopter ridesWater bubbles are a unique interactive amusement for both adults and children. Climb inside a large 6-foot diameter floating bubble to walk, run, roll, summersault, or relax on water! An incredibly fun experience, you’ll want to try again and again. Each water bubble experience is 5 - 6 minutes long and costs $12 per person (cash, credit, and debit accepted).
Limited Time Attractions
NASA Journey to Tomorrow Exhibit
10 a.m. - 9 p.m. August 4, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. August 5, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. August 6, East side of Land & Living (closes at 6 p.m. on Aug. 6)NASA’s Journey to Tomorrow traveling exhibit will immerse visitors in a fun-filled interactive experience with learning stations and engaging activities.
ACT Ohio Construction Demo Days and Little Builders Zone
July 26 - 28, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Cardinal PatioTry hands-on construction activities in more than 10 building trades, see live construction demonstrations, learn about building trades careers, and meet the construction tradespeople who build Ohio at this family-friendly event hosted by ACT Ohio and the Ohio State Building and Construction Trades Council. Learn more at ACTOhio.org.
Operative Plasterers & Cement Masons Unions Great Lakes Apprenticeship Demonstrations
July 26 – 28,10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Cardinal Patio
The great Ohio State Fair will host the 2022 Operative Plasterers’ & Cement Masons’ Unions Great Lakes Apprentice Demonstrations. This exciting event allows apprentices from around the State to showcase their talents by doing hands on demonstrations of their respective crafts.
WOSU Kids Day
July 27, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Central ParkJoin WOSU Public Media in Central Park for a chance to meet some of your favorite PBS KIDS® characters! The event, designed to keep the whole family entertained, will offer PBS KIDS® crafts, coloring, educational activities, and games. See PBS KIDS® characters throughout the day for photo opportunities.
Ohio Lottery’s “Living Lucky” Promotion
July 29, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — In front of the Rhodes Center
Stop by the Ohio lottery booth on Saturday July 29th. Play PLINKO, win prizes, get tickets. You could also win an entry into our Living Lucky 2nd Chance promo to win tickets, specialty merchandise item, Fair merchandise and more!
Molina Healthcare Kids Zone
July 29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Cardinal Patio
Join us at the Molina Kids Zone where we will have a bubble oasis & larger than life fun! Enjoy free activities for the whole family! Don’t forget to stop by our prize wheel where every kid is a winner! Ask questions about your Medicaid benefits while you’re here. Molina Healthcare of Ohio has been a part of the community since 2005 helping our members to stay healthy and happy. We’ll see you there!
Columbus All-Breed Dog Agility
July 29 – 30, 11 a.m., 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. — Rhodes Center LawnWatch as these local pups strut their stuff with as-seen-on-TV style agility!
Buckeye Health Plan Kid’s Fitness Challenge
July 30, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. — Main Street StageBuckeyeHealth Plan is hosting a kid’s fitness challenge from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the Main Street Stage. Kids ages 6 to 14 can participate for a chance to WIN A FREE BIKE!
Ohio Lottery Cash Explosion CashFest
July 31, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Cardinal PatioCash Explosion’s Cash Fest returns to the Ohio State Fair in 2023! Fans can come experience the fun and excitement of the longest running lottery game show in America! There will be games, music, dancing, and plenty of fun to be had by all. Come meet the co-hosts of the show, David McCreary and Alisa Henry along with the CE Street Team and get your chance to win cool prizes, instant tickets and maybe some CASH!
50 Year Club Meeting
July 31, 9 a.m. — Rhodes Center AuditoriumDid you attend the Ohio State Fair in 1972 or earlier? If you answered yes, you’re automatically a member of the 50 Year Club! The club’s annual meeting will feature the presentation of the esteemed Giant Step Award and more.
Joint Legislative Agriculture Committee Meeting
Aug. 1, 9:30 a.m. — Nationwide® Donahey Land & Living presented by Ohio Farm BureauJoin the Ohio House of Representatives Agriculture and Conservation Committee and the Ohio Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee as the bicameral group showcases the work they’ve accomplished and interact with the public.
AARP Ohio Scavenger Hunt
Aug. 1, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. — In front of Rhodes CenterReady, set, go! AARP Ohio welcomes your participation in the 2023 Senior Day Scavenger Hunt. Stop by our booth located in front of the Rhodes Center at 10 AM on Tuesday, Aug. 1 to pickup your AARP Scavenger Hunt Passport. Complete all stops along the way and redeem a voucher for a free ice-cream cone in the Dairy Building courtesy of AARP Ohio.
Well Beyond 60! Health & Wellness Expo presented by the Ohio Department of Aging
Aug. 1, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — In front of the Rhodes Center
The “Well Beyond 60!” EXPO returns for the seventh time, featuring nearly 3,000 square feet of FREE health screenings, wellness demonstrations, and lifestyle programs promoting independence provided by more than 20 state and community partners. Visitors of all ages will learn from experts about healthy choices they can make throughout their lifespans to ensure they live a healthier, more active life at age 60 and beyond. Make memories and set new health and wellness goals at the “Well Beyond 60!” EXPO, this day only.Ohio Pork Council Rib-Off
Aug. 1, 11:30 a.m. — Central Park
Pork and barbecue lovers alike are invited to join the Ohio Pork Council for their 25th Annual Rib-Off at the 2023 Ohio State Fair. Ohio's highly skilled grill masters will compete to be honored for the best ribs, pulled pork, and barbeque sauce in the state. After celebrity judges sample the food, fairgoers will have the opportunity to enjoy free samples and cast their vote for the highly sought-after People's Choice Award. Voting ends at 12:45 p.m.
2023 Dean’s Charity Steer Show
Aug. 1, 2 p.m. — Voinovich Livestock and Trade CenterCelebrity exhibitors will team up with media personalities and experienced 4-H families to compete in a charity steer show raising funds for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio. The event is hosted by Cathann A. Kress, vice president and dean of The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. You’re invited to this celebration of Ohio agriculture, communities, and children.
Sensory-Friendly Morning
Aug. 2, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
We’ve turned down the lights and volume to make the Ohio State Fair more sensory-friendly in partnership OCALI and other partners. Ride the rides with no flashing lights or music, visit the Fair’s many educational and sensory activities, take a break in a quiet room, or use our sensory accessibility guide to find a Fair opportunity that suits you. Learn more here.
2023 The Ohio House and Senate Pork Off
Aug. 3, 6:45 p.m. or immediately following the Showmanship Finals — O'Neill Swine Barn
Please join the Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Pork Council during the Ohio State Fair to watch Ohio’s Representatives versus Ohio’s Senators in a hog handling showdown! 4-H or FFA youth will help the participants with tips and tricks.“Back to School with Kroger” Scavenger Hunt
Aug. 4, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. — In front of the Rhodes Center
Visit Kroger’s booth North of 17th Avenue in front of the Rhodes Center to learn about a fun back-to-school scavenger hunt around the fairgrounds! Obtain a special map and embark on a fun-filled, interactive search to find one of the twenty-five special vouchers strategically hidden around grounds. The vouchers can then be redeemed for a chance to win a backpack and a $25 gift card to purchase school supplies at Kroger!811 Facebook Live Spin-To-Win
Aug. 12, 11 a.m., Facebook-only event
Join Marathon Pipe Line LLC on Aug. 12 at 11 a.m. on Facebook Live for a chance to test your safe digging knowledge and win great prizes!
Prizes include:
- Yeti Cooler Party Pack
- 10.2-inch iPad (Wifi, 64 GB)
- Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2
- Airpods Pro
- JBL Partybox Encore
- iRobot Roomba 980
- Amazon Gift Card
