With every summer comes fair season in Northeast Ohio, and there are plenty of options available no matter which side you’re on. Northeast Ohio proudly offers several annual celebrations operating at full capacity this year, with enough funnel cake and family fun to get your summer rolling.
Here are eight county fairs to consider before summer ends.
Lake County Fair: July 25-30
Fair season starts this year in Painesville Township, with a parade kicking off in Painesville City and traveling west down to the fair itself. Fan-favorite events, such as Moto-X racing on July 27, Dirt Night Motor Mayhem on July 26, and daily animal shows from Jungle Terry will be returning. Gates open daily at 8 a.m., and will close between 10-11 p.m. depending on the day of the week. $10, 1301 Mentor Ave., Painesville Township, 440-354-3339, lakecountyfair.org
Summit County Fair: July 25-30
Beginning in 1850, the Summit County Fair is as reliable as anything. Start your engines because OMA Motocross returns on opening day July 25, the next night brings demolition derbies, and July 30 boasts a genuine rodeo. Also, enjoy an assemblage of eating and livestock competitions throughout the week. The fair gates are open from 10 a.m-11 p.m. daily. $3-$10, 229 E. Howe Road, Tallmadge, 330-633-6200, summitfair.com
Ohio State Fair: July 26-August 6
The Ohio State Fair began in 1850 and has been in full-swing ever since. There is no shortage of food vendors, with a plethora of choices that accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions — of course you can always just grab a classic funnel cake. With over 50 rides and an assortment of star-studded concerts that include Ludacris and Yung Gravy, there is something for everyone. Tickets range from $25-$45. Free-$10, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, 614-644-3247, ohiostatefair.com
Medina County Fair: July 31-August 6
A county tradition for 178 years, the Medina County Fair begins on July 31. You’ll find all your fan favorites, including animal shows and circus acts. In the evening, there are nightly concerts as well as circus performances and juggling. Gates are open 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 8 a.m.-8 p.m. on Sunday. Free-$7, 720 W. Smith Road, Medina, 330-723-9633, medinaohiofair.com
Ashtabula County Fair: August 8-13
Running through early August, the Ashtabula County Fair is located in beautiful Jefferson, Ohio. Come play a round of Tactical Laser Tag or catch a line at the First Bite Fishing Tanks. With Demolition Derbies, harness racing and truck and tractor pulls, it’s sure to be a fun-filled time! Gates are open from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. daily. Free-$10, 127 N. Elm St., Jefferson, 440-576-7626, ashtabulafair.com
Cuyahoga County Fair: August 8-13
The 126th annual Cuyahoga County Fair opens with its usual parade and opening ceremony, then delves into pony shows, magicians and nightly music performances. Gates open at noon until 11 p.m. during the week, 10 a.m.-11 p.m. on Saturdays, and noon-10 p.m. on Sundays. Free-$8, 19201 E. Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, 440-243-0090, cuyfair.com
Lorain County Fair: August 20-27
Beginning in 1846, the Lorain County Fair is Ohio’s second largest county fair. Gate admission is $8 per entry, but children under 8 and Senior Citizens over 65 get in free. Acoustic performers will play throughout the week, with tribute bands dedicated to classic rock and Johnny Cash performing later in the day. Gates open at 8 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. every night. Free-$8, 23000 Fairgrounds Road, Wellington, 440-647-2781, loraincountyfair.com
Great Geauga County Fair: August 31-September 4 (Labor Day Weekend)
Held since 1822, Ohio’s oldest county fair returns for its 201st season, closing out the tail end of summer. With high-entertainment attractions such as traveling sea lions, magic shows or a high-energy fiddlin’ show by Chris Higbee, this 150-acre fairground promises family fun that never disappoints. Gates are open from 9 a.m.-midnight every day. Free-$10, 14373 N. Cheshire St., Burton, 440-834-1846, geaugafair.com
