Festival season is once again in full swing! With so many charming celebrations all around the state to choose from, here are some of the more popular festivals happening this summer (and some to look forward to this fall) that are worth traveling for.
Frankfort Sunflower Festival
Frankfort | July 25 to 26
A commemoration of the natural beauty surrounding sunflowers, the Frankfort Sunflower Festival is more than just an event rooted around plants. Rather, it’s a community-driven celebration of everything related to the local flower, capped off by a parade, car show, petting zoo and much, much more.
Frankfort Sunflower Festival
Celebrate summer in full bloom at the Frankfort Sunflower Festival! Just a short drive from Cincinnati and Dayton, this two-day, family-friendly event…
Ohio State Fair
Columbus | July 29 to August 9
One of the largest and oldest festivals in the country, the Ohio State Fair has become one of the most talked-about events to occur in the Midwest at any given point in the year. A 12-day celebration of the state’s art, cuisine and distinct culture, the number of activities for visitors to participate in are virtually endless, from rides and concert performances to livestock competitions and free kayaking.
Ohio State Fair
Discover the Ohio State Fair, a favorite family tradition since 1850! Come for the Midway, featuring exhilarating rides, and unleash all the…
Ohio River Sternwheel Festival
Marietta | September 5 to 7
A scenic and fun-filled celebration along the banks of the Ohio River, Marietta’s Sternwheel Festival features authentic sternwheel boats flowing along the tranquil river. Along with these historical river boats, there’s music, food, entertainment, and fireworks – all essential ingredients for a memorable festival!
Ohio River Sternwheel Festival
Each year, the Ohio River Sternwheel festival draws crowds of up to 100,000 people to Ohio’s oldest city for a party in…
Ohio Renaissance Festival
Harveysburg | September to October
An event perfect for both history fans and casual visitors, the Ohio Renaissance Festival truly transports attendees back to the height of 16th century Europe. Along with Middle Age-centric entertainment options like jousting and sword fights, the festival features over 150 shops and themed dining experiences every weekend from September throughout October.
Ohio Renaissance Festival
Travel back to the Middle Ages and experience an authentic 16th-century England celebration during the Ohio Renaissance Festival! Explore the 35-acre permanent…
Barnesville Pumpkin Festival
Barnesville | September 24 to 27
Marking the official arrival of fall, the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival also serves as a four-day festival dedicated to – you guessed it – all things pumpkin. Whether visitors show up for the immersive parade or to attend the giant pumpkin weigh-offs, the festival itself is the ideal way to transition from the carefree days of summer to the balmy start of autumn.
Barnesville Pumpkin Festival
The "King" Pumpkin in 2025 was grown by Bill Neptune of New Concord, OH, weighing in at an impressive 1,952 lbs. and…
Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival
Coshocton | October 16 to 18
An essential stop for dedicated apple eaters, the Apple Butter Stirrin’ festival is a hands-on event that seamlessly blends local history with unique dining options. With over 100 vendors peddling apple-related products, it’s a great place to get your hands on some homemade apple butter, listen to some soft bluegrass, or take a picturesque carriage tour of historic Roscoe Village.
Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival
Experience the 55th Apple Butter Stirrin' Festival An official America 250-Ohio Featured Event, in Historic Roscoe Village. Ride a canal boat, explore…
