Get ready for funnel cakes, Ferris wheels, farm animals, and family memories! County fairs are the heart of summer in Southwest Ohio, offering classic fun for kids and adults alike. Here’s your roundup of must-visit fairs happening this summer — complete with dates, highlights, and tips to plan your trip.
Warren County Fair
July 14–19, 2025
Warren County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, OH
Why go? One of the region’s biggest fairs with livestock shows, a huge midway, tractor pulls, demolition derby, live music, and kids’ activities every day.
Don’t miss: The pig races and the famous fried cheese on a stick!
Clermont County Fair
July 20–26, 2025
Clermont County Fairgrounds, Owensville, OH
Why go? A beloved tradition since 1850, featuring 4-H exhibits, carnival rides, pie-baking contests, magic shows, and nightly grandstand events.
Don’t miss: The Kiddie Tractor Pull — always a crowd favorite.
Butler County Fair
July 20–26, 2025
Butler County Fairgrounds, Hamilton, OH
Why go? Tons of family entertainment with daily shows, petting zoos, harness racing, and a midway filled with rides and games.
Don’t miss: The demolition derby and the fresh-squeezed lemonade stands.
Greene County Fair
July 27–August 2, 2025
Greene County Fairgrounds, Xenia, OH
Why go? Ohio’s oldest county fair, celebrating 186 years of tradition! Enjoy horse shows, livestock judging, gospel music night, and a full midway.
Don’t miss: The sweet corn and the Sunday rodeo.
Preble County Fair
July 26–August 2, 2025
Preble County Fairgrounds, Eaton, OH
Why go? A laid-back fair with country charm, featuring animal barns, daily entertainment, classic fair food, and local craft exhibits.
Don’t miss: The antique tractor display.
Clinton County Fair
July 5–12, 2025
Clinton County Fairgrounds, Wilmington, OH
Why go? A great early-July fair with horse racing, a carnival midway, nightly entertainment, and plenty of youth 4-H projects on display.
Don’t miss: The grandstand concert series.
Ohio State Fair
July 23–August 3, 2025
Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH
Why go? One of the nation’s largest state fairs with massive rides, concerts from major artists, livestock shows, creative arts, agriculture displays, interactive kids’ exhibits, and a sky ride across the fairgrounds.
Don’t miss: The famous butter cow, big-name concerts, and the Taste of Ohio Café serving up local eats.
County Fair & State Fair Pro Tips
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Bring cash — many food stands and ticket booths don’t accept cards.
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Pack sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles.
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Arrive early for popular events like tractor pulls or demo derbies to grab the best seats.
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Check each fair’s website for admission deals like family nights or kids-free days.
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For the State Fair, buy tickets online early to save time — and download the fair map.
