Take a Break at the State Fair

Looking for a fun day trip? The Ohio State Fair is now open in Columbus, July 27 through August 7. The State Fair is conducted by the Ohio Expositions Commission, which is required by statute to hold at least one fair or exposition per year. Through the State Fair, the Commission seeks to promote agriculture and education, Ohio products and tourism, and economic development.

The State Fair traces its history back to 1846 when the Ohio Legislature created the Ohio State Board of Agriculture (now Department of Agriculture). The Board held two District Fairs in 1847 and 1848, leading to the first Ohio State Fair held in 1850. In its early years, the State Fair frequently changed locations, including being held in Cleveland in the 1850s and 1860s. The State Fair has been held every year since its founding, except during World War II. The State Fair moved to its current home at the Ohio Expo Center in 1886. In 1961, management of the Expo Center and responsibility for the State Fair passed to the newly created Ohio Expositions Commission. The site currently occupies 360 acres, includes facilities for indoor and outdoor activities of all types, and hosts over 175 events per year.