With local county fairs heating up and the 164th annual Ohio State Fair right around the corner, it’s important to recognize the benefits of either attending, participating in or supporting these events.
Yes, I said benefits. Supporting youth through the Jr. Fair, supporting the businesses that are there selling products and services, and supporting the food vendors. Even the carnies need the cash, not just for pop bottles and balloons but for those stuffed animals you’ll spend too much money trying to win — that will eventually end up in a garage sale!
Most county fairs are homecomings of sorts. You really can’t get down most fair-lanes without seeing someone you know. The people are always friendly and the sights and sounds are unmatched. And of course the smells. Fair food is amazing. Some of the carnies could use a little more right guard and tic-tacs however.
County fairs are like live Facebook events. You want people to “Like” you who you haven’t seen in years. You want to “Share “ with them all the crazy things you’ve been up to. You want to “Update” them about all the changes in your life and use those over-rated, over-paid cell phones or mobile devices with previously captured moments, like photos of last years’ fair that you never deleted from that device.
The State Fair is something that most families should attend at least once and maybe more often while the kids are young. But what’s cool about the Ohio State Fair is the variety available for everyone at every age.
Local fairs try to provide events and entertainment that appeal to the masses. The state fair actually does that. You find music from Gospel to Rock. You’ll find food from Steak to Vegan. You’ll have more time and more options to share with family and friends that it will seem like your Facebook page has gone viral.
The Ohio State Fair is one of the largest state fairs in the United States. In 2015, attendance was 982,305, the fair’s highest 12-day attendance on record. And chances are you will know somebody there. Even the politicians will be there, kissing babies, shaking hands and asking for money and your vote, all at the same time!
The Ohio State Fair has some unique things about it that keeps me coming back. My favorites include: The Butter Cow; The All-Ohio State Fair Band and Schmidt’s of German Village. I know what you’re thinking, “for you, Dan, I’m sure it’s all about the food.” And you would be right. Well, it’s really all about the food where ever I go — but come on —cream puffs and Bahama Mama Sausages … ARE YOU KIDDIN’ ME?
Did I mention the cream puffs and Bahama Mama Sausages?
The Giant Slide and the SkyGlide celebrate 48 years of fun.
Smokey Bear is an icon of the Fair that stands 365 days a year, yet only speaks during the 12-day period.
And for the first time ever, the Ohio State Fair will host a craft beer festival.
With a mix of special competitions, big-name entertainment, exciting rides and thousands of kids and animals, the Ohio State Fair offers 12 days of continuous family fun time.
Did I mention the cream puffs and Bahama Mama Sausages?
Visit your county fair — and don’t forget to visit the Great Ohio State Fair, too.
Here’s seeing you, in Ohio Country!
