The Ohio State Fair is returning after a two-year hiatus, here’s your guide to the event

After a 2-year hiatus, the Ohio State Fair returns to an in-person event this year.  The fair will kick-off on July 27 and run through Aug. 7.  And we couldn’t be more ready to feast on fair fries and funnel cake.

While you may be familiar with the fair’s biggest attractions (who doesn’t love a butter cow?), we’re here to give you the inside scoop on hidden gems and newcomers. Check out these ideas to take your fair experience to the next level.

NEW! Natural Resources Playground – A new nature-inspired playground is sure to delight kids and adults alike.  The accessible playground features a fossil trail, life-size boat, and camping area.

Free food – Check the daily fair schedule to see where you can snag free food and samples.  We found some great freebies like Sugardale Hotdog and Bacon Sampling (7/30-7/31),  Tim Hortons Cold Brew Beverage Sampling (7/30), Ohio Beef Council Capital City Burger Battle (7/31), and Mountain Dew Sampling (7/27 and 7/30).

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Kayaking – Yes, you read that right, kayaking.  Did you know the Natural Resources Park hosts a man-made kayak pond?  Paddlers can try out kayaks with the support of ODNR staff for free!

NEW!  Governor’s Children’s Passport – Prizes?  Yes please!  Kids can pickup a passport at Guest Information Services Booths or one of the Children’s Initiatives partner agency booths.  Upon completing the activities in the passport, they can turn them in for prizes!

Baby farm animals – Grab a scoop of ice cream and prepare for your heart to melt.  Just outside the dairy barn, you’ll find a host of baby farm animals at the OVMA Veterinary Education Center.  You might even witness a cow being born!  The Ohio Veterinary Medical Association is on standby to provide education and care for the new babes.

Want to read more? Check out our print publication, (614) Magazine. Learn where you can find a free copy of our new July issue here!

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