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Food and Wine
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Food and Wine
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Ohio State Fair highlights 31 new food items

Ohio State Fair Highlights: 31 Must-Do Experiences for Food, Fun, and Family Adventures

The Ohio State Fair, a beloved annual tradition in Columbus, Ohio, is back in full swing, drawing crowds from across the Midwest and beyond. Running from late July through early August, this year's fair promises a whirlwind of excitement, blending agricultural heritage with modern thrills. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned fairgoer, the event offers something for everyone—from heart-pounding rides and delectable treats to educational exhibits and live entertainment. With over 150 years of history, the fair celebrates Ohio's farming roots while embracing contemporary fun. In this extensive guide, we'll dive into 31 standout highlights that capture the essence of the fair, ensuring you make the most of your visit. Let's break them down into categories for easy navigation, starting with the culinary delights that make the fair a foodie's paradise.

First up, the eats. No trip to the Ohio State Fair is complete without indulging in its legendary food scene, where deep-fried innovations meet classic comfort foods. Highlight number one: the deep-fried buckeye. This Ohio staple takes the state's signature candy—a peanut butter ball dipped in chocolate—and batters it, fries it to golden perfection, and dusts it with powdered sugar. It's a sweet, crunchy twist on tradition that's become a fair icon. Pair it with highlight two: the massive turkey legs, smoked to juicy tenderness and perfect for sharing (or not). For something more adventurous, try highlight three: the flaming hot Cheetos corn dog, where the spicy snack coats a classic corn dog for a fiery kick that challenges even the boldest palates.

Moving on, highlight four brings us to the donut burger—a beef patty sandwiched between two glazed donuts, often topped with bacon and cheese for that ultimate sweet-savory fusion. It's indulgent, messy, and utterly unforgettable. Sweet tooths will love highlight five: the funnel cake sundae, layering fried dough with ice cream, whipped cream, and toppings like strawberries or chocolate syrup. For a healthier option amid the decadence, highlight six is the fresh corn on the cob, slathered in butter and seasonings, straight from Ohio farms. Don't miss highlight seven: the pickle pizza, a quirky pie featuring dill pickle slices on a cheesy base, proving that fair food knows no bounds.

Shifting gears to beverages, highlight eight is the craft beer garden, showcasing local Ohio brews from breweries like Columbus Brewing Company. It's a shaded spot to relax with a cold one while people-watching. Highlight nine: the milkshakes from the dairy barn, made with fresh Ohio milk and available in flavors like chocolate peanut butter or strawberry. For non-alcoholic fun, highlight ten is the lemon shake-up, a tart, refreshing drink that's a fair classic.

Now, let's talk thrills and rides. The midway is the heart of the fair's excitement, and highlight eleven is the SkyGlider, a chairlift ride offering panoramic views of the entire fairgrounds—perfect for spotting your next adventure from above. Adrenaline junkies should head to highlight twelve: the Fire Ball, a looping pendulum ride that swings riders upside down at dizzying heights. For families, highlight thirteen is the giant slide, a multi-lane sack slide that's been a staple for generations, providing simple, exhilarating fun.

Animal lovers will flock to the agricultural exhibits. Highlight fourteen: the butter cow sculpture in the dairy building, an annual artistic marvel carved from over 2,000 pounds of butter, often accompanied by themed figures like farm animals or Ohio landmarks. It's a testament to dairy farming creativity. Highlight fifteen brings interactive experiences like petting zoos, where kids can get up close with goats, sheep, and llamas. For equestrian fans, highlight sixteen is the horse shows, featuring competitions in dressage, jumping, and harness racing that showcase Ohio's equine heritage.

Entertainment takes center stage with highlight seventeen: the daily concerts at the Celeste Center. This year features a lineup of country stars, rock bands, and pop acts—check the schedule for big names like Jason Aldean or local favorites. Highlight eighteen is the All-Ohio State Fair Band and Choir performances, where talented high school musicians from across the state deliver inspiring shows. For laughs, highlight nineteen is the comedy hypnotist act, a hilarious interactive show that leaves audiences in stitches.

Educational and cultural highlights add depth to the fair. Highlight twenty: the natural resources park, with exhibits on Ohio's wildlife, including live fish displays and forestry demonstrations. It's an eco-friendly way to learn about conservation. Highlight twenty-one is the heritage arts building, showcasing quilts, woodworking, and crafts from Ohio artisans, often with live demonstrations. For history buffs, highlight twenty-two is the antique tractor display, featuring restored machines that tell the story of Ohio's farming evolution.

Family-oriented activities abound. Highlight twenty-three: the kiddie rides section, with gentle carousels and mini coasters designed for the little ones. Highlight twenty-four is the giant sandbox, a free play area where children can build and dig to their hearts' content. For a competitive edge, highlight twenty-five offers games like ring toss or basketball shoots, where you can win oversized stuffed animals.

Unique attractions set the Ohio State Fair apart. Highlight twenty-six: the world's largest butter sculpture contest—wait, that's tied to the butter cow, but expand to include creative entries from sculptors. Highlight twenty-seven is the chainsaw carving demonstrations, where artists transform logs into intricate sculptures before your eyes. For a touch of the exotic, highlight twenty-eight features camel rides, a rare opportunity to experience a humpbacked adventure right in Ohio.

As the day winds down, evening highlights shine. Highlight twenty-nine: the fireworks spectacular, lighting up the night sky with colorful bursts synchronized to music—a perfect end to a fair day. Highlight thirty is the illuminated midway at dusk, where neon lights and spinning rides create a magical atmosphere. Finally, highlight thirty-one: the midnight madness deals, where some vendors offer discounts on food and games after dark, extending the fun for night owls.

Beyond these 31 highlights, the Ohio State Fair is more than just a list—it's a cultural phenomenon that fosters community and celebrates the Buckeye State's spirit. With over a million visitors annually, it's a place where families create lasting memories, from cheering at livestock auctions to savoring that first bite of fried dough. Practical tips for attendees include arriving early to beat the crowds, wearing comfortable shoes for the expansive grounds, and downloading the fair app for maps and schedules. Admission is affordable, with options for multi-day passes, and parking is plentiful though expect some walking.

This year's fair emphasizes sustainability, with recycling stations and eco-friendly initiatives, reflecting Ohio's commitment to its natural resources. Food allergies? Many vendors now offer gluten-free or vegan options, ensuring inclusivity. For those with mobility needs, accessible paths and shuttles make navigation easier.

In essence, the Ohio State Fair encapsulates the joy of summer in the heartland. Whether you're there for the adrenaline rushes, the gastronomic adventures, or the simple pleasure of watching a pig race (oh, did I mention the pig races? They're a bonus highlight—adorable swine sprinting for treats), the fair delivers. As one longtime attendee put it, "It's not just an event; it's Ohio's heartbeat." So grab your tickets, gather your group, and immerse yourself in these 31 highlights—each one a gateway to unforgettable experiences. The fairgrounds await, promising a blend of nostalgia and novelty that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

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