COLUMBUS — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine, and Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel joined Ohio State Fair Executive Director Adam Heffron to officially open the 171st Ohio State Fair on Wednesday.
This marks a celebration of the completion of major improvements at the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds, including the debut of the new Ohio Showcase Building.
The opening ceremony capped off a multi-year construction effort that has reshaped the fairgrounds with two brand-new buildings, renovations to four existing buildings, the new Ohio Children’s Carousel, a new amphitheater, a misting area, and more.
“Fran and I are so excited about the new buildings and activities at the Ohio State Fair, but we’re also excited about what this change means for the fairgrounds and how people spend their time here,” DeWine said.
“The new and improved Ohio State Fair tells Ohio’s story by showcasing everything that’s great about our state, and we hope it reminds everyone that whether you came here six months ago or if your family has been here for six generations, you’re an Ohioan and Ohio’s story is your story.”
The new Ohio Showcase Building has two primary sections: the Shaping Ohio exhibit, which includes a film and exhibit telling the story of Ohio; and the new Food Hall, an air-conditioned dining space featuring six Ohio-rooted restaurants.
“The Ohio State Fair brings together some of the best parts of our state — our traditions, our agriculture, and our people,” Tressel said. “It’s a celebration of every corner of Ohio and a great place to make memories while experiencing all the fair has to offer.”
The Shaping Ohio exhibit was developed in partnership with the Ohio History Connection, inviting visitors into the story of Ohio through an immersive 360-degree film shown in an air-conditioned theater, along with a separate exhibit space with sections exploring innovation, people, landscapes, and communities that define the state.
Highlights include a life-size replica of the 1905 Wright Flyer III and touchscreen displays spotlighting notable Ohioans and inventions.
“The Shaping Ohio exhibit connects fairgoers to Ohio’s past by bringing history to life right before their eyes,” said Megan Wood, Executive Director and CEO of the Ohio History Connection.
“We are excited to offer visitors an interactive opportunity to learn about our great state while enjoying all of the attractions the State Fair has to offer. It’s a celebration of everything Ohio has to offer, all under one roof.”
The improvements showcased during this year’s Fair are the result of Governor DeWine’s Expo 2050 initiative, a long-term effort to modernize the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds.
In the days leading up to the Fair’s opening, Governor and First Lady DeWine also celebrated the opening of the Ohio Agriculture Center, the renovated Dairy Building, and the Ohio Children’s Carousel, building on last year’s debut of the new Cardinal Gate entrance.
Following the tour of the Ohio Showcase Building, Governor and First Lady DeWine led media on a walking tour of the fairgrounds, stopping at several of the new attractions.
“We’re proud to open a new chapter with the completion of this work,” said Adam Heffron, Executive Director of the Ohio State Fair.
“From new infrastructure and green spaces to our new exhibition buildings, Ohio Children’s Carousel, and expanded guest amenities, this reimagined campus reflects Governor DeWine’s vision, the dedication of our legislators, and the tireless work of our construction partners.”
The Fair runs through Aug. 9 and continues to celebrate Ohio’s agriculture, entertainment, innovation, and communities with beloved traditions, exciting attractions, concerts, competitions, and some of the state’s favorite fair foods.
A full schedule of events, attractions, concerts, and competitions is available at ohiostatefair.com.