Funnel cakes, Ferris wheels, farm animals, and a full midway — county fair season is here. Here’s your rundown of the fairs happening across Southwest Ohio this summer, with dates and what to look for at each one.
Clinton County Fair
July 11–18, 2026
Clinton County Fairgrounds, Wilmington, OH
Why go? A great early-July fair with harness racing, a carnival midway, nightly entertainment, and plenty of youth 4-H projects on display.
Don’t miss: The grandstand concert series.
Warren County Fair
July 20–25, 2026
Warren County Fairgrounds, Lebanon, OH
Why go? One of the region’s biggest fairs, with livestock shows, a large midway, tractor pulls, demolition derby, live music, and kids’ activities every day.
Don’t miss: The pig races and the fried cheese on a stick.
Clermont County Fair
July 26–August 1, 2026
Clermont County Fairgrounds, Owensville, OH
Why go? A fair tradition dating back to 1846, with 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 26–August 1, 2026
Butler County Fairgrounds, Hamilton, OH
Why go? Tons of family entertainment with daily shows, a petting zoo, 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
August 2–8, 2026
Greene County Fairgrounds, Xenia, OH
Why go? Ohio’s oldest county fair, with horse shows, livestock judging, gospel music night, and a full midway.
Don’t miss: The sweet corn and the Sunday rodeo.
Preble County Fair
August 1–8, 2026
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.
Ohio State Fair
July 29–August 9, 2026
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. New this year: the reconstructed Ohio Village opens for a first look, included with fair admission.
Don’t miss: The famous butter cow, big-name concerts, and the Taste of Ohio Café. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for kids ages 6 to 12, and free for ages 5 and under. Advance tickets are $9 through July 28.
Tip: Park at the Ohio History Center and use it as your fair entrance — it’s a full entry point with ticket sales, and the Ohio Village renovation is right there.
County Fair & State Fair Pro Tips
- Bring cash — many food stands and ticket booths don’t accept cards.
- Pack sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles.
- Arrive early for popular events like tractor pulls or demo derbies to grab the best seats.
- Check each fair’s website for admission deals like family nights or kids-free days.
- For the State Fair, buy tickets online early to save time — and download the fair map.
