Check Out the Best Summer Fairs in Northeast Ohio: Summer Fun Guide

July 28-Aug. 2

Lake County Fair

Once again, fair season starts in Painesville Township, with a parade kicking off in Painesville City and traveling west to the fairgrounds on July 28. Fan-favorite grandstand events include the demo derby on Tuesday, truck pull on Wednesday, motocross racing on Thursday, drag racing on Friday and monster trucks on Saturday. Jungle Terry will also return with playful animal exhibitions alongside dog shows.

$12, 1301 Mentor Ave., Painesville Township, 440-354-3339, lakecountyfair.org

July 28-Aug. 2

Summit County Fair

Beginning in 1850, the Summit County Fair has long been a reliable summer tradition. Start your engines — OMA Motocross returns on opening day, July 28, followed by demolition derbies the next night and beloved truck and tractor pulls throughout the weekend. Also enjoy an assemblage of eats and livestock competitions throughout the week.

$5-$10, 229 E. Howe Road, 1050 N. Ave., Tallmadge, 330-633-6200, summitfair.com

July 29-Aug. 9

Ohio State Fair

The Ohio State Fair began in 1850 and has been going strong ever since. With a plethora of food vendors, there is no shortage of choices to accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions and, of course, you can always grab a classic funnel cake. With more than 50 rides and a lineup of star-studded concerts including Sammy Kershaw, Bailey Zimmerman, Alison Krauss & Union Station, Nelly and Weird Al Yankovic, there is something for everyone.

Ticket prices to be announced, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, 614-644-3247, ohiostatefair.com

Aug. 3-9

Medina County Fair

A county tradition for more than 180 years, this year’s fair embraces a Stars, Stripes and Summer Nights theme in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. Grandstand events include motocross, bull riding, a horse and pony show, monster trucks, fireworks and more. A special circus performance and sea lion show will keep guests entertained throughout the week. In the evenings, enjoy nightly concerts and a variety of vendors.

Free-$8, 720 W. Smith Road, Medina, 330-723-9633, medinaohiofair.com

Aug. 11-16

Cuyahoga County Fair

The annual Cuyahoga County Fair kicks off with its traditional parade and opening ceremony at 5 p.m. Tuesday before rolling into a full week of pony shows, magicians and nightly music performances. The midway also steps things up this year with prime-time amusement rides, including a roller coaster. 

Ticket prices to be announced, 19201 E. Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, 440-243-0090, cuyfair.com

Aug. 23-30

Lorain County Fair

The Lorain County Fair celebrates its 180th anniversary this year. Ohio’s second-largest county fair brings rides, harness racing, demolition derbies and plenty of classic fair food. Stick around for live music with Home Free on Friday and Sawyer Brown on Saturday.

Free-$10, 23000 Fairgrounds Road, Wellington, 440-647-2781, loraincountyfair.com

Sept. 3-7 (Labor Day Weekend)

Great Geauga County Fair

Held since 1822, Ohio’s oldest county fair returns for another season, closing out the tail end of summer. With high-entertainment attractions like the demo derby, tractor pulls and a Monday rodeo finale, this 150-acre fairground promises family fun.

Ticket prices to be announced, 14373 N. Cheshire St., Burton, 440-834-1846, geaugafair.com