With every summer comes fair season, and there are plenty of options available no matter which side of the region you’re in. 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 22-27
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 24, Dirt Night Motor Mayhem on July 23 and daily animal shows from Jungle Terry will be returning. $10, 1301 Mentor Ave., Painesville Township, 440-354-3339, lakecountyfair.org
Summit County Fair: July 22-27
Beginning in 1850, the Summit County Fair is as reliable as anything. Start your engines because OMA Motocross returns on opening day July 22, the next night brings demolition derbies, KOI drag racing July 24 and the beloved truck and tractor pulls through the weekend. Also, enjoy an assemblage of eats and livestock competitions throughout the week. $4-$10, 229 E. Howe Road, Tallmadge, 330-633-6200, summitfair.com
Ohio State Fair: July 23-August 3
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 — and, of course, you can always just grab a classic funnel cake. With over 50 rides and an assortment of star-studded concerts that include Warren Zeiders, Leanne Morgan and AJR, there is something for everyone. Free-$12, 717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, 614-644-3247, ohiostatefair.com
Medina County Fair: July 28-August 3
A county tradition for 180 years, you’ll find all your fan favorites, including animal shows, Barnyard Olympics with Cracker Jack the Clown, and Jungle Island Petting Zoo featuring hands-on interactions with a variety of animals. In the evening, there are nightly concerts, rides and a variety of vendors. Free-$8, 720 W. Smith Road, Medina, 330-723-9633, medinaohiofair.com
Ashtabula County Fair: August 5-10
Running through early August, the Ashtabula County Fair is located in beautiful Jefferson, Ohio. With plenty of rides, Demolition Derbies, harness racing and tractor pulls, it’s sure to be a fun-filled time. Free-$10, 127 N. Elm St., Jefferson, 440-576-7626, ashtabulafair.com
Cuyahoga County Fair: August 5-10
The annual Cuyahoga County Fair kicks off with its usual parade and opening ceremony, then delves into all the fun of pony shows, magicians and nightly music performances. Ticket prices to be announced, 19201 E. Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights, 440-243-0090, cuyfair.com
Lorain County Fair: August 17-24
Beginning in 1846, the Lorain County Fair is Ohio’s second largest county fair. Check out the pony pulls, hay bale decorating contests and vendors. Free-$10, 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 another season, closing out the tail end of summer. With high-entertainment attractions and live musical performances, this 150-acre fairground promises family fun that never disappoints. Ticket prices to be announced, 14373 N. Cheshire St., Burton, 440-834-1846, geaugafair.com
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