2025 Guide to Ohio State and County Fairs: Fun, Food, and Safety
Written by Jay M. Kelley III in Health & Wellness, Leisure, Premises Liability, Product Liability, Uncategorized on July 22, 2025
Ohio is known for its iconic fairs, big and small. From deep-fried everything to demolition derbies and livestock shows, these events are summer staples across the state. But with packed crowds, fast-moving rides, and lots of moving parts, accidents can happen.
Here’s your guide to popular upcoming fairs in Ohio, plus tips on safety and legal responsibilities.
Popular Upcoming Fairs by Region
Northeast Ohio
- Lake County Fair (Painesville)
July 22 – 27, 2025
One of the largest county fairs in Northeast Ohio, featuring rides, food, livestock shows, and nightly entertainment. - Medina County Fair (Medina)
July 28 – August 3, 2025
A long-standing tradition since 1845, this fair features unlimited rides, 4‑H and livestock exhibits, contests, free grandstand events, food vendors, and theme days. - Ashtabula County Fair (Jefferson)
August 5 – 10, 2025
A classic county fair with free grandstand events, 4-H competitions, rides, and local food favorites. - Cuyahoga County Fair (Middleburg Heights)
August 5 – 10, 2025
Large local fair with livestock, arts and crafts, and tractor pulls. - Geauga County Fair (Burton)
August 28 – September 1, 2025
One of the oldest county fairs in Ohio. Features a strong agricultural focus.
Northwest Ohio
- Putnam County Fair (Ottawa)
June 23 – 28, 2025
A community favorite featuring 4-H events, games, and family entertainment. - Lucas County Fair (Toledo)
July 7 – 13, 2025
Large county fair near Toledo offering midway rides, 4-H events, live entertainment, and local food. - Wood County Fair (Bowling Green)
July 27 – August 3, 2025
Known for youth competitions, concerts, and food vendors. - Defiance County Fair (Hicksville)
August 16 – 23, 2025
Heavy on motorsports and livestock, this fair includes truck pulls, demo derbies, and youth showcases. - Hancock County Fair (Findlay)
August 26 – September 1, 2025
A family-focused fair with a mix of rides and farming exhibitions.
Central Ohio
- Franklin County Fair (Hilliard)
July 14 – 20, 2025
Local food, rides, and 4-H showcases. - Union County Fair (Marysville)
July 20 – 26, 2025
A weeklong celebration of agriculture, education, entertainment, and community. With 4-H and FFA shows, arts and crafts, and family-friendly activities. - Ohio State Fair (Columbus)
July 23 – August 3, 2025
The biggest fair in Ohio. Rides, concerts, food, and agriculture competitions. - Hartford Fair (Licking County)
August 3 – 9, 2025
Known as “the biggest little fair in the world,” it includes free grandstand events, carnival rides, agricultural showcases, and a friendly community feel. - Delaware County Fair (Delaware)
September 13 – 20, 2025
Home of the Little Brown Jug harness race.
Southwest Ohio
- Clermont County Fair (Owensville)
July 20 – 26, 2025
A tradition since 1850, featuring 4‑H exhibits, carnival rides, pie‑baking contests, magic shows, and nightly grandstand events. - Preble County Fair (Eaton)
July 26 – August 2, 2025
A laid-back, family-friendly fair with animal barns, local crafts, classic food, and the annual antique tractor display. - Greene County Fair (Xenia)
July 27 – August 2, 2025
Combines agricultural history with modern entertainment.
Southeast Ohio
- Pike County Fair (Piketon)
July 25 – August 2, 2025
A community favorite known for its rodeo and demolition derby. - Athens County Fair (Athens)
August 1 – 9, 2025
Celebrating its 170th year, this beloved fair features a demo derby, truck & tractor pulls, KOI drag racing, pony pulls, and family amusement rides. - Muskingum County Fair (Zanesville)
August 10 – 16, 2025
Now in its 179th year, the Blue Ribbon Fair brings livestock shows, fair rides, daily entertainment, food vendors, and family attractions. - Washington County Fair (Marietta)
August 30 – September 2, 2025
Traditional fair atmosphere with livestock and food vendors. - Jackson County Apple Festival (Jackson)
September 16 – 20, 2025
A regional favorite celebrating local apples with parades, high school “Apple Bowl” football, pageants, and a grand finale lighted parade drawing ~70,000 people.
Safety and Legal Tips for Fair Season
Common Fair-Related Injuries to Watch For
- Ride Injuries: Malfunctions, poor operator behavior, or rushed loading and unloading can lead to falls, whiplash, or more severe injuries. Even with state inspections, traveling rides are often set up and torn down quickly, which increases the risk of mechanical issues.
- Slip and Falls: Spilled drinks, uneven walkways, or poor lighting can cause trips or slips, especially in high-traffic areas like food courts or portable restroom zones.
- Foodborne Illness: Improperly stored or undercooked food from fair vendors can lead to severe gastrointestinal illness. Food poisoning can cause dehydration, hospitalization, and long-term health issues.
- Animal Incidents: Many fairs allow visitors to interact with livestock. While these are usually safe, animals can bite, kick, or spread illness. Young children and older adults are especially vulnerable.
Legal Insight
- Fairgrounds Liability: If a fair fails to maintain safe conditions or inspect ride operations properly, it may be liable for injuries.
- Food Vendor Oversight: Vendors must meet health department guidelines. Improper food handling could lead to liability.
- Ride Safety: Traveling amusement rides must comply with Ohio Department of Agriculture inspection standards.
What to Do if You’re Hurt at a Fair
- Report the incident immediately to staff or fairgrounds security
- Take photos or videos of the area
- Get names and contact info for any witnesses
- Seek medical care and keep documentation
- Contact Elk + Elk to discuss your rights
Stay Safe and Enjoy the Fair
Elk + Elk has handled claims involving amusement rides, unsafe public events, and foodborne illnesses. If you or someone you know is hurt at a fair, call 1-800-ELK-OHIO for a free consultation or contact us online.
Jay M. Kelly III - Managing Partner
Meet Jay M. Kelley III, a top medical malpractice attorney in Ohio with over 25 years of experience and $200 million in verdicts and settlements. He leads Elk + Elk’s litigation strategy in state and federal courts and has a unique background as a former felony prosecutor and hospital defense lawyer. Jay specializes in complex cases, including birth injuries and wrongful death, and is recognized by Best Lawyers and ranked among the Super Lawyers Top 10 in Ohio.
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