Other Events & Competitions

Listed by date

ACT Ohio Construction Trades Exhibit

July 23-24, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Cardinal Patio
Affiliated Construction Trades (ACT) Ohio advocates for quality, safe construction by contractors and skilled craftsmen with integrity. Come visit their exhibit at the Fair to learn more about this industry and how you can become involved in the trades!

Operative Plasterers & Cement Masons Unions

July 23-24, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Cardinal Patio

The Operative Plasterers’ & Cement Masons’ Unions Great Lakes Apprentice Demonstrations allows apprentices from around the state to showcase their talents by doing hands-on demonstrations of their respective crafts.

Sensory-Friendly Morning

July 24, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

We’ve turned down the lights and volume to make the Ohio State Fair more sensory-friendly in partnership OCALI and other partners. Ride the rides with no flashing lights or music, visit the Fair’s many educational and sensory activities, take a break in a quiet room, or use our sensory accessibility guide to find a Fair opportunity that suits you. Learn more here.

WOSU Kids Day

July 24, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Central Park
Join WOSU Public Media in Central Park for a chance to meet some of your favorite PBS KIDS® characters! The event, designed to keep the whole family entertained, will offer PBS KIDS® crafts, coloring, educational activities, and games. See PBS KIDS® characters throughout the day for photo opportunities.

Columbus All-Breed Dog Agility

July 25-26, 10 a.m., Noon, 2 p.m., Rhodes Center Lawn
Watch as these local pups strut their stuff with as-seen-on-TV style agility!

50 Year Club Meeting

July 29, 10 a.m. — FFA Center
Did you attend the Ohio State Fair in 1975 or earlier? If you answered yes, you’re automatically a member of the 50 Year Club! The club’s annual meeting will feature the presentation of the esteemed Giant Step Award and more.
Registration at 9:30 a.m. and meeting starts at 10 a.m.

Well Beyond 60! Health & Wellness Expo presented by the Ohio Department of Aging

Tuesday, July 30, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Cardinal Patio
The “Well Beyond 60!” EXPO returns for the eighth time, featuring nearly 3,000 square feet of FREE health screenings, wellness demonstrations, and lifestyle programs promoting independence provided by more than 20 state and community partners. Visitors of all ages will learn from experts about healthy choices they can make throughout their lifespans to ensure they live a healthier, more active life at age 60 and beyond. Make memories and set new health and wellness goals at the “Well Beyond 60!” EXPO.

Please join the Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Pork Council during the Ohio State Fair to watch Ohio’s Representatives versus Ohio’s Senators in a hog handling showdown! 4-H or FFA youth will help the participants with tips and tricks.

Ohio Pork Council Rib-Off

July 29, 11:30 a.m. — Central Park

Pork and barbecue lovers alike are invited to join the Ohio Pork Council for their 26th Annual Rib-Off at the Ohio State Fair. Ohio's highly skilled grillmasters will compete to be honored for the best ribs, pulled pork, and barbeque sauce in the state. After celebrity judges sample the food, fairgoers will have the opportunity to enjoy free samples and cast their vote for the highly sought-after People's Choice Award. Voting ends at 12:45 p.m.

Ronald McDonald House Charity Steer Show

July 30, 4 p.m. — Voinovich Livestock and Trade Center
Celebrity exhibitors will team up with media personalities and experienced 4-H families to compete in a charity steer show raising funds for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio. The event is hosted by Cathann A. Kress, vice president and dean of The Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences. You’re invited to this celebration of Ohio agriculture, communities, and children.

Joint Legislative Agriculture Committee Meeting

July 30, 11:30 a.m. — Kasich Hall
Join the Ohio House of Representatives Agriculture and Conservation Committee and the Ohio Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee as the bicameral group showcases the work they’ve accomplished and interact with the public.