DeWine, Tressel celebrate opening day of the 170th Ohio State Fair

COLUMBUS – This morning, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine, and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel joined Ohio State Fair Executive Director Adam Heffron to cut the ribbon at the new, state-of-the-art entry gate, officially opening the 170th Ohio State Fair.

The fair runs from Wednesday, July 23, through Sunday, August 3, and continues to host traditions and family favorites including the famed butter cow and calf sculptures, iconic SkyGlider ride, and Smokey Bear in the beautiful 8-acre Natural Resources Park. 

“The Ohio State Fair is more than a tradition, it’s a celebration of everything that makes our state special,” said Governor DeWine. “Fran and I are especially proud to help open this year’s Fair at the brand-new, state-of-the-art entry gate, a symbol of the exciting improvements happening at the fairgrounds. From the traditional favorites to new attractions, there’s something at the Fair for every Ohioan to enjoy.”

The brand-new entry gate is one of many improvements as part of the ongoing Expo 2050 Project at the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds. Next year, fairgoers can look forward to the debut of a new Ohio-themed carousel, two new buildings, and renovations to several existing structures, enhancing the experience for both the fair and year-round events.

In addition to the traditional favorites, this year’s fair features new attractions such as a chainsaw carver and aerial entertainment from the Cincinnati Circus Company, along with food offerings including Buckeye Lemonade, Caramel Apple Cream Puff, Thanksgiving Sundae, and more.

"The Ohio State Fair is a fun 12 days with a lot of meaning behind them," said Lt. Governor Tressel. "It brings us back to our agricultural roots and reminds us where our food comes from, while giving our kids the opportunity to showcase the projects they've worked so hard on for months, and so much more."

Following a cabinet meeting at the fairgrounds and a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony, Governor DeWine, First Lady DeWine, and Lt. Governor Tressel toured the fairgrounds with the fair’s Executive Director Adam Heffron.

“For the second year as executive director, I am thrilled to welcome all of our friends from around the state and beyond to the Ohio State Fair,” said Heffron. “Grab a bite to eat, watch a show, participate in activities, listen to music, and join us in celebrating Ohio over the next 12 days.”

A full list of events and attractions with times and locations can be found at https://www.ohiostatefair.com/events.