If you’ve never been to the State Fair in Columbus Ohio, you’re missing out on one of the wildest, weirdest, and most wonderful events of the summer. It’s literally the bridge from the sweltering summer heat into Ohio State Football season.
This isn’t just a bunch of cows and fried food (though yes, it is also very much that). The Ohio State Fair is a full-blown spectacle of rides, games, concerts, and culinary chaos.
As a certified thrill-seeker and professional overeater, I hit the rides hard and the food even harder. If you’re looking for tips, tricks, and a full breakdown of what to expect at the Ohio State Fair in Columbus, this is it.
Here’s everything you need to know before heading to the Columbus State Fair, from what to wear, to what to eat, to how not to get stuck in traffic on the way in.
A Quick and Quirky History of the Ohio State Fair
The Ohio State Fair Columbus has been around since 1850. Originally held in Cincinnati, the fair moved around a bit before landing in Columbus in 1886, where it’s been ever since. The fairgrounds have hosted everything from butter cows to presidential visits, and let’s just say… things have escalated since the 1800s. (I don’t think Abe Lincoln ever tried Hot Cheeto Cheese Fries, but he would’ve loved it. Taft probably would’ve loved it even more now that we think about it.)
You can check out the full, surprisingly fascinating history right here.
What to Expect at the State Fair This Year
The Ohio State Fair in Columbus runs from July 23 – August 3, 2025 at the Ohio Expo Center, just north of downtown. It’s got everything you’d expect from a state fair and then some:
- Giant midway packed with thrill rides and carnival games
- Dozens of live performances (music, comedy, animal shows, etc.)
- Livestock competitions (prepare yourself for the pig races… they get WILD)
- Art, agriculture, and weirdly impressive butter sculptures
- And, of course, more food than your body is ready for
The Food Is the Main Event (Don’t @ Me)
Look, I know the rides are cool. I know I’ll be there, screaming my face off on whatever new ride looks the most terrifying. But the real star of the State Fair in Columbus is the food.
We’re talking deep-fried everything, over-the-top creations, and some surprisingly great deals if you know where to look. Some booths offer $3 sample sizes so you can try even more without maxing out your cholesterol levels in the first hour.
➡️ Check out this year’s full list of food and deals here: Ohio State Fair Food Roundup.
Pro tip: Don’t skip the classics (lemon shake-up, corn dog, elephant ears), but also? Save room for the weird stuff. You didn’t come all this way to eat a salad.
What People Are Asking About RE: The State Fair in Columbus Ohio
What should I wear to the Ohio State Fair?
It’s hot. You’ll be walking a lot. And if you plan on riding anything that goes upside down, maybe don’t wear a loose crop top and flip-flops (unless you are aiming to get an indecent exposure charge, which we don’t recommend… NOT speaking from experience here). Go for comfy clothes, closed-toed shoes, and maybe bring a backup pair of socks.
What are you allowed to bring into the State Fair?
According to official guidelines:
- You can bring in food and water in small, soft-sided coolers
- You can’t bring in alcohol, weapons (this should be obvious), or hard coolers
- Bags and backpacks are allowed but subject to search Basically: be reasonable.
Do I need cash at the Ohio State Fair?
Some food vendors and rides are still cash-only. It’s smart to bring some cash. That said, most booths take cards now, and there are ATMs around the grounds.
Is parking free at the Ohio State Fair?
It depends. Parking at the fair is $10 and available on a first-come, first-served basis. However, there is a free park-and-ride service from Columbus State Community College lots to the fair gates, and it runs constantly. For more parking info, click here.
Final Thoughts: It’s Ohio’s Biggest Party for a Reason
If you’re asking yourself whether it’s worth braving the heat and the crowds for the State Fair Columbus Ohio, my answer is a resounding YES. Where else can you see a cow carved out of butter while eating a Dubai Chocolate Funnel Cake?
The Ohio State Fair Columbus isn’t just a summer event… it’s a full-blown sensory overload, and I mean that in the best way possible.
So wear your stretchy pants, hydrate, and I’ll see you in line for a funnel cake.
Discover Events & Festivals in Columbus Here!