Ohio State Fair

Illustration of two jockeys riding galloping horses on a racetrack with black text. Small cowboy boot attached.

The first Ohio State Fair was held from October 2-4, 1850. The event moved permanently to Columbus, Ohio in 1886. Guests today have the opportunity to compete in various competitions including: agriculture, livestock, fine arts, sports, and cooking. The Ohio State Fair Homebrew competition began in 2010 and in 2017 judged 580 different brews of beer, mead and cider. Traditions are a prominent feature of the fair. The mascot Butter D. Cow has been interacting with guests since 2002. Smokey the Bear has welcomed guests by name since 1959 when they visit the fair’s Natural Resource Park. Butter sculptures were first introduced in 1903 and sculptures today reflect positive ideals and cultural trends.