Untitled - Ohio State Fair

Welcome
Table of Contents
Governor’s Welcome
Welcome.................................................... 2
General Information................................... 4
Premier Hotel Partners.............................. 9
Special Days and Discounts.................... 10
Rides....................................................... 14
Education................................................. 15
Daily Attractions....................................... 16
Limited-Time Attractions.......................... 18
Concert & Event Series........................... 22
Map.......................................................... 24
Buildings & Stages.................................. 26
Traditions................................................. 30
Tips From Fellow Fairgoers..................... 32
Fair Food................................................. 33
Contests & Competitions......................... 34
Entertainers............................................. 38
Free Live Music....................................... 43
Top-Tier Sponsors................................... 46
Official Sponsors..................................... 47
Welcome to the 160th Ohio State Fair. Along with my wife,
Karen, and my daughters, Emma and Reese, I always look
forward to attending the State Fair. Rich in tradition, education,
and of course, agriculture, the Fair gives us the opportunity to
showcase Ohio’s finest people, places and products. Agriculture
is Ohio’s largest industry, and the Fair gives us an opportunity to
demonstrate its importance to our culture and economy.
I am proud to celebrate our great state. I know the friendly staff,
educational displays and exciting attractions will ensure that the
Ohio State Fair is the Buckeye State’s premier family event. With
livestock expositions, competitions, art and rides, the Fair is the ideal way to celebrate the
summer - and enjoy some delicious food!
On behalf of the great state of Ohio, I offer my best wishes for a memorable day at the Fair!
Governor John R. Kasich
General Manager’s Welcome
This year, we honor the 160th Ohio State Fair. Over the
years, our state’s great event has maintained its rich heritage,
celebrating its agricultural roots, along with Ohio’s products, its
people and their accomplishments.
Of course, the Fair is also a great family destination filled with
fun, education and entertainment. Whether you will be attending
for the first time this summer, or if you’ve made it an annual
family tradition, your visit will undoubtedly be packed with
memories.
Contact Us
Ohio State Fair
717 East 17th Avenue
Columbus Ohio 43211
Phone: (614) 644-3247
Website: OhioStateFair.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/
OhioStateFair
Twitter: @OhioStateFair
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/OhioStateFair
Text message club (discounts, special
offers): Text FAIR to 88588
Email: [email protected]
Download the free app
During the Fair’s 12-day run, you’ll find free entertainment
stages, interactive educational activities, strolling performers, sporting events, a fine
arts show, great live music, hands-on agricultural learning, a free petting zoo, livestock
competitions, plenty of exciting rides and an eight-acre natural resources park with free
kiddie fishing and more.
One last thing - come hungry. There are nearly 200 food vendors with delicious fare from
deep-fried goodies to Ohio-grown produce. Enjoy!
Download the Ohio State Fair Food
Finder for iPhone or Android for free
today and get access to:
• Maps
• Daily event schedules
• Fair updates
• A Fair food locator
• “Park & Pin” to pin your parking spot
Virgil Strickler, CFE
General Manager, Ohio Expo Center & State Fair
blog.ohiostatefair.com
2
OhioStateFair
OhioStateFair
OhioStateFair
@OhioStateFair
3
General Information
Hours of Operation
Dates - July 24 - Aug. 4, 2013
Admission gates - 9 am - 10 pm, except
Aug. 4 until 8 pm
Gate Admission Prices
Adults (ages 13-59) - $10
Youth (ages 5-12) - $8
Senior (ages 60+) - $8
Children under five - Free
Rides
10 am - 11 pm (open until midnight Fridays
and Saturdays)
$1 coupons - most kiddie rides require one
coupon; super kiddie and spectacular rides
require two coupons; super spectacular
rides require three coupons. Special rideall-day wristbands are available for $23.
Discounts on
Admission and Ride
Wristbands
Save on gate admission
prices with $6 tickets
available through Aug.
4 at Kroger, participating
AAA locations with
AAA membership and
Ticketmaster outlets.
Purchase ride-allday wristband
vouchers
(to be
4
redeemed at the Fair for a wristband) for
$20 at Kroger stores and Ticketmaster
outlets through July 23 only.
Parking
$5 per vehicle; easy access to AAA Parking
Lots from I-71 at the 17th Avenue exit and
the Hudson Street exit at Silver Drive.
Handicapped parking available. Ride the
complimentary AAA Courtesy Shuttles to
and from the main entrance gate and your
vehicle.
Conditions for Admission
The safety of our fairgoers, exhibitors and
employees is our number one priority. In
an effort to ensure the highest level of
safety and security, please do not bring any
illegal weapons or substances to the Fair.
Prior to entry, you will be asked to walk
through a magnetometer. Purses,
backpacks, book bags, coolers,
strollers, etc. are permitted, but are
subject to search. You may bring
your own food and non-alcoholic
beverages.
General Information
Stroller, Wagon, Wheelchair and
Locker Rentals
Available at the Cardinal and OHIO Gates.
Stroller: $10/day; wagon: $15/day; manual
wheelchair: $15/day; electric cart: $50/day,
$35 after 5 pm; lockers: $1/day. Supplies
are limited and available for rent on a firstcome, first-served basis.
Pet policy
Pets are not permitted on the grounds during
the Fair with the exception of service dogs
or animals approved as part of an exhibition
or competition (such as livestock and 4-H
events). Service animals are those that
have been individually trained to do work or
perform tasks for a person with a disability.
AEP Ohio On-Grounds Energy
Efficiency Express Shuttle
10 am - 8 pm (operates until 10 pm on
Fridays and Saturdays)
Makes frequent stops around the perimeter
of the grounds for free.
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First aid
10 am - 11 pm (open until midnight Fridays
and Saturdays)
Basic first aid is provided; located on the
east side of the Nationwide Donahey Ag &
Hort Building.
Facilities and Services for the
Disabled
The Ohio State Fair provides a number of
facilities and accommodations so fairgoers
with disabilities can have a comfortable
and enjoyable visit. Buildings and most
restrooms are handicap accessible. Both
motorized and non-motorized wheelchairs
can be rented near the main entrances
of the Fair. ASL signed interpretation is
provided at most WCOL Celeste Center
performances. Assisted listening devices
are available for use free of charge at the
WCOL Celeste Center, Main Street Stage
presented by CD102.5 and American
Family Insurance Gazebo Stage. Visitors
must leave a photo ID.
Banking services
ATMs are located throughout the Fair for
your convenience. Please refer to the Fair
map for specific locations.
Guest information services booths
We’re here to help. Stop by one of our
conveniently-located booths to pick up a
copy of the daily schedule or get directions.
Recycling at the Fair
Please look for specially-marked recycling
containers to deposit your recyclable plastic
bottles, cans, cardboard and paper.
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General Information
Premier Hotel Partners
Camping (Fair Only)
Baymont Inn & Suites - Continent
Hilton Garden Inn - University Area
Baymont Inn & Suites - Westerville
Holiday Inn Express
Candlewood Suites - Polaris
Holiday Inn - Worthington
Crowne Plaza - Columbus North
Ramada Plaza
Long-term (entire Fair) north and east lots
Lots are full hook-up. Reservations must
be accepted and paid for in advance ($350/
duration of Fair) upon completion of the
Recreational Vehicle Camping Permit
Application available at ohiostatefair.com.
Short-term (temporary) - west lot
Available on a first-come, first-served basis.
No reservations accepted. Water and
electric provided; some lots full hook-up
provided. The charge is $35 per night.
Get Involved
Want to participate in next year’s Fair?
Visit OhioStateFair.com to get involved
by entering one of the hundreds of
competitions or becoming one of our valued
seasonal employees.
Plan your Day at the Fair
An up-to-date schedule of events and
activities at the Fair is available online at
OhioStateFair.com, accessible on your
mobile phone by texting “FAIR” to 88588
or by downloading the free Ohio State Fair
Food Finder app. Upon arrival, you can pick
up a daily schedule and map.
614-848-9696
www.baymontinns.com/hotel/15558
614-890-1244
www.baymontwesterville.com
614-436-6600
www.candlewoodsuitespolaris.com
614-885-1885
www.crowneplaza.com/ColumbusNorth
614-263-7200
www.columbusuniversityarea.stayhgi.com
614-263-7725
http://bit.ly/HIExpressFair
614-436-0700
www.holidayinn.com/worthingtonoh
614-846-0300
www.ramadaplazacolumbus.com
Embassy Suites - Columbus Airport Varsity Inn North
614-536-0500
embassysuites1.hilton.com
614-267-4646
www.varsityinnosunorth.com
Hampton Inn - Downtown
Varsity Inn South
614-559-2000
www.hamptoninn.com/hi/columbus-downtown
614-291-2983
www.varsityinnosusouth.com
DISCOUNT
When you make your reservation,
be sure to mention the Ohio Expo
Center & State Fair to receive a
discount on your hotel room!
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Special Days and Discounts
All special days and discounts are not valid
with other offers.
Text message deals
Text “FAIR” to 88588 for exclusive text-only
discounts.
Printer-friendly coupons
Visit ohiostatefair.com to download and
print cost-savings coupons on food and
other Fair goodies.
Fourth Grade Agriculture is Cool
Program
Exiting fourth grade students (2012-2013
academic year) and one chaperone can
attend the Fair for free any one day to
enjoy the interactive Ag is Cool program
by presenting a valid report card at the
entrance gates. Fourth grade teachers can
get a free admission voucher by signing up
at www.ohioagriculture.gov/AgisCool.
Special days
Wednesday, July 24
WBNS 10 TV & ONN Opening Day
$3 admission until 3 pm.
Thursday, July 25
Kroger Feeds Ohio Day
Just remember 2-3-4: When you bring two
canned food items per person to a booth
outside the gates, you’ll receive a voucher
good for $3 admission before 4 pm. All
food donations will go to the Mid-Ohio
Foodbank.
Friday, July 26
Meijer Day
Purchase two pairs of Falls Creek jeans
at Meijer and receive a Catalina coupon
printed after your in-store purchase good
for free admission for up to two people
on Meijer Day, Friday July 26 only. Offer
available in-store July 8 through July 26.
Not valid with other offers.
Saturday, July 27
AEP Ohio Day
AEP Ohio customers - present a bill at a
booth outside entrance gates to receive $5
admission vouchers for everyone in your
party before 5 pm.
Tuesday, July 30
Humana Day
Sunday, July 28
Veterans & Military Day
Veterans and active military are given free
admission with appropriate identification.
Mattress Firm Day
Double your deal! Pick up a voucher
at any participating Mattress Firm store
throughout the state and receive one free
admission with the purchase of one $5
admission on Wed., July 31 only.
Monday, July 29
NBC4 Family Value Day
Until 6 pm, adults will be admitted for the
kids’ admission price of $8, and kids 12
and under will be admitted free. With the
purchase of one wristband, a second rider
can ride free until 6 pm with a hand stamp.
After 6 pm, all riders will need either a
wristband or vouchers to ride.
Wednesday, July 31
QFM 96 Fair Attitude Wednesday
Fairgoers will enjoy $5 admission all day.
Thursday, Aug. 1
AAA “Show Your Card and Save” Day
AAA members: Show your current
membership card at a booth outside
entrance gates to receive $4 admission
vouchers for each member in your party.
Ice cream, you scream, AAA members
scream for free ice cream! Show your
membership card at the AAA ice cream
social tent in Central Park and receive one
free scoop of ice cream from 2 - 4 pm.
Friday, Aug. 2
Ohio Lottery Day
Present a non-winning Ohio Lottery ticket
at a booth outside entrance gates to
receive a $4 admission voucher.
First Lady’s Day
Enjoy State Fair activities hosted by
Ohio’s First Lady Karen Waldbillig Kasich!
The day will spotlight events focused on
women in agriculture and the First Lady’s
commitment to health and wellness.
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Saturday, Aug. 3
Ohio Soybean Day
One Ohio soybean farmer or Ohio
Soybean Association member will be
given free Fair admission, with each
member in their party receiving $4
admission with voucher from Ohio
Soybean magazine.
Sunday, Aug. 4
Pepsi-Cola Day
Bring any empty Pepsi-Cola brand
product to a booth outside the entrance
gates for a $3 admission voucher for
every member in your party before 3
pm.
Printers’ Day
SAVE BIG!
Advance-sale tickets are just
6
$
at Kroger, participating AAA locations
with AAA membership and Ticketmaster
outlets
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Rides
SkyGlider
10 am - 11 pm
Hop on one of the world’s largest portable
sky rides at one of the access points in
Kiddieland or near the Cardinal Gate and
enjoy a relaxing half-mile journey across
the Fair.
Giant Slide
10 am - 11 pm
Hike up the 105 steps and take an exciting
trip down this 144-foot long slide!
Mountain Dew Midway
10 am - 11 pm
(open until Midnight on Friday and
Saturday)
More than 60 rides from Ferris wheel to
free-fall drops will twist, turn, plunge, spin,
shock and excite fairgoers!
Kiddieland
10 am - 11 pm
(open until Midnight on Friday and
Saturday)
Education
Parents and children alike can enjoy a visit
to Kiddieland with fun rides developed just
for kids and their families, including minicoasters, a kiddie carousel and bumper
boats.
Agriculture
Visit the Ag is Cool interactive education
stations across the grounds to learn how
agriculture is a part of your daily life and do
cool things like milk a real cow!
Animals
You can hold a massive anaconda at the
Snakes Alive! show, pet exotic animals
in the free petting zoo, get up close
and personal with livestock, see
Ohio’s native wildlife in Natural
Resources Park, watch baby
animals being born in the
OVMA Veterinary
The STEM (science, technology, engineering
and math) hub is the Youth Center. The
whole family will love extreme handson science experimentation, airpowered dragster races and rocket
making!
Education
Center and gaze at
friendly seals at the Sea Lion Splash!
Art
Take a tour of the Cox Fine Arts Center to
learn about the various media used and the
impact of arts in Ohio.
History
Visit an authentic Civil War Camp to
discover how Ohio played a role in the
Civil War. You’ll experience everything
about soldiers’ lives during the Civil War,
including how they prepared meals,
passed time and made weaponry while
at war.
Science
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Daily Attractions
Daily Attractions
Ag is Cool interactive stations
Parade
10 am - 6 pm (closes at 3 pm on Aug. 4)
Various locations listed on map
Hands-on stations throughout the Fair allow
you to learn about bacteria and food safety,
check out bugs under a microscope, milk a
cow, spin wool and much more.
Central Ohio Model Railroad Club
Exhibit
10 am - 9 pm
In front of DiSalle Center
Fairgoers of all ages will love the elaborate,
functional model railroad exhibit including
a special just-for-kids Thomas and Friends
section.
Central Ohio LEGO® Train Club
display
9 am - 8 pm (closes at 6 pm
on Aug. 4)
Youth Center
Check out the amazing LEGO® display!
Civil War Encampment
10 am - 9 pm
Rhodes Center Lawn
This authentic union encampment lets
you discover how soldiers
lived with demonstrations
on every aspect of
daily life from food
preparation to bulletmaking.
Fireworks, July 24
- Aug. 3
Approximately
9:45 pm
Eastern sky
Stick around and
end the night with
a bang as colorful
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fireworks light up the sky.
Ohio Farm Bureau Land & Living
Exhibit
10 am - 9 pm
Nationwide Donahey Ag & Hort Building
This highly interactive exhibit is packed with
interesting activities and games the whole
family can enjoy. Young children will enjoy
driving pedal farm tractors and families can
record their State Fair memories with a free
photograph before leaving the exhibit!
OSU Phun with Physics
Monday - Friday: 12:30 - 4:30 pm
Saturday - Sunday: 11 am - 5 pm
Youth Center
Enjoy radically fun, in-your-face science
experiments, the Spinning Barf Wheel of
Science, rocket launching and more.
OVMA Veterinary Education Center
9 am - 10 pm
Wick Pavilion
Witness the miracle of birth and visit new
and
expectant farm animal
mothers and their young
at this educational
exhibit near the Dairy
Products Building.
Monster Mural
11 am - 6 pm
(closes at 5 pm on
Aug. 4)
Central Park
Kids jump at the
chance to make
their artistic
mark on a giant
Fair mural each day
(with waterproof
paint, of course).
4 pm (no parade Aug. 4)
Fair mascot Butters D. Cow will be joined
by local celebrities, honorees, entertainers
and special guests in this tour through the
Fair led by the All-Ohio State Fair Band &
Youth Choir.
Pig Races presented by 99.7
The Blitz
Monday - Friday: 12:30, 2:30, 4:30, 6:30 pm
Saturday - Sunday: 11:30 am, 1:30, 3:30,
5:30, 7:30 pm
Kiddieland
Three different breeds of speedy pigs race
around the track for a prize.
Petting Zoo
10 am - 10 pm (open until 11 pm Friday and
Saturday)
Kiddieland
The free Petting Zoo features more than 50
animals from around the world.
Sea Lion Splash presented by The
CW NEW!
10 am - 8 pm (Shows at 1, 3 and 7 pm)
Kiddieland
Watch as these sea lions and their handlers
perform amazing tricks in this educational,
family-friendly show. When they aren’t
performing, the sea lions are blowing
bubbles and playing with their toys in the
underwater viewing tank.
Time Warner Cable Technology
and Engineering Education
Showcase
9 am - 8 pm
Youth Center
Fairgoers of all ages will enjoy hands-on
experiments and activities such as building
rubber band powered rockets, racing airpowered dragsters, experiencing TV green
screen technology, building with PVC pipes
and more.
Pony Rides
10 am - 10 pm (open until 11 pm Friday and
Saturday)
Kiddieland
Pony rides are offered for $3 per ride.
Camel Rides NEW!
10 am - 10 pm (open until 11 pm Friday and
Saturday)
Kiddieland
Camel rides are offered for $5 per ride for
kids (12 and under) and $7 per ride for
adults.
Sand Sculpture
Kiddieland Pavilion
An enormous pile of 36 tons of sand will be
transformed into a beautiful sculpture. Be
sure to stop by for a photo!
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Limited-Time Attractions
Snakes Alive by Reptile Rick and
Jungle Jenny Teepen
July 27 - Aug. 4, Noon, 2, 4 and 5:30 pm
FFA Center lawn
This educational and entertaining program
features 20 different types of snakes and
lizards. Stick around after the show - you
might just get a unique photo opportunity!
Columbus All-Breed Dog Agility
July 27 - 28, 11 am, 2 pm, 5 pm
Rhodes Lawn
Watch as these local pups strut their stuff
with as-seen-on-TV style agility!
Ohio Idol
July 27, 7 pm
Main Street Stage presented by CD102.5
Following months of scouring the state for
Ohio’s best vocalists, the Ohio Idol top 10
will compete for the opportunity to tour Ohio
through 2013 and win $10,000 in cash and
a recording contract.
Buckeye Sports Fest
July 27, 11 am - 1 pm
WCOL Celeste Center
Meet and mingle
with OSU
athletes and
coaches,
receive
discounts
on upcoming
Buckeye sporting
events and try out
some of the Buckeye
interactive activities
at this free
event.
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Ohio State Beekeepers
Association
July 28 - Aug. 4
DiSalle Center Patio
Learn how to start and maintain your own
beehive, as well as the importance of bees
to our ecosystem, while having fun! Don’t
miss the beard of bees show, held twice
daily at 1 and 4 pm.
50 Year Club meeting
July 29, 8:30 am
Rhodes Center Auditorium
Did you attend the Ohio State Fair any time
before 1963? If you answered yes, you’re
automatically a member of the 50 Year
Club! The club’s annual meeting will feature
performances by the All-Ohio State Fair
Band & Youth Choir, the presentation of the
esteemed Giant Step Award and more.
Pork Rib-Off
July 30, 11:30 am
Central Park
The 17th Annual Pork Rib-Off returns with
teams competing to be honored for the best
ribs, pulled pork and barbecue sauce in the
state. Swing by to enjoy free samples and
cast your vote for People’s Choice Award.
4-H & American Welding Society
Careers in Welding Trailer
July 31 - Aug. 4
Youth Center
Lawn
This
educational
exhibit includes
interactive
displays featuring
virtual welding guns
and helmets
equipped
with internal monitors. Score the highest in
the daily video welding game and you might
just win a welding helmet!
Backyard Conservation &
Gardening
Aug. 1, 10 am - 6 pm
ShowPlace Pavilion
Come and learn how you can improve
your gardening and decrease your carbon
footprint by using compost bins, rain barrels
and more in this demonstration presented
by Franklin Soil and Water Conservation
District.
Ohio Lottery Mini Cash Explosion
Game Show
Aug. 3
Central Park
Meet the co-host of the TV game show for
your chance to win cash and prizes. Get
there early - registration for your chance to
play starts at 11 am.
Ohio Christian Association Music
Showcase
Aug. 4, Noon, 3:30 pm, 7 pm
ShowPlace Pavilion
Talented Ohio musicians will perform
Christian songs.
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Buildings & Stages
Full schedules of daily events are available
online at ohiostatefair.com.
Nationwide Donahey Ag & Hort
Building presented by the Ohio
Farm Bureau
9 am - 9 pm
Browse decorative scarecrows, beautiful
flowers, the interactive Land & Living
Display, prize vegetables and more.
Antiques & Collectibles Pavilion
10 am - 9 pm
Looking for that perfect vintage item? Look
no further; a variety of antique dealers
and exhibitors sell jewelry, records, toys,
memorabilia and more at the Fair.
Brown Building
8 am - 10 pm
This arena is home to all sheep exhibits
and shows, including a store with all things
wool.
Buckeye Sports Center
WCOL Celeste Center
Show schedules available on page 22
Big-name concerts and free shows are a
part of the Concert & Event Series held in
this air-conditioned arena. Concessions are
available for purchase, as well as Ohio beer
and wine during select concerts.
Central Park
Open all Fair hours
Relax at the center of the Fair, home to the
Monster Mural and special activities.
Country Connection Stage
10:30 am, 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm
Join us at the center of the Nationwide
Donahey Ag & Hort Building presented by
the Ohio Farm Bureau, for a wide range
of activities and on-stage presentations
including family entertainment, animals,
interesting home and garden project “how
to” demonstrations, food and farming and
more. Show schedules are available at
each entrance of the exhibit.
JD Equipment Taft Coliseum
Open all Fair hours
Many horse shows take place in this facility.
Cooper Arena
8 am - 10 pm
Swing by this arena for junior fair horse
shows and dairy cattle judging.
Cox Fine Arts Center
9 am - 9 pm (closes at 8 pm on Aug. 4)
Nearly 300 masterful works of art, film
screenings and live music create a gallery
atmosphere at one of the largest state fair
fine arts exhibitions in the nation.
Dairy Products Building
9 am - 9 pm
See the famous butter cow and sculpture,
a Fair tradition since 1903, while you
enjoy your favorite dairy products from
Ohio-produced ice cream to the celebrated
cheese sandwich.
Denny Hales Arena
Open all Fair hours
Dog agility and select pre-Fair horse shows
are held in this open-air pavilion.
DiSalle Creative Arts Center
9 am - 9 pm (closes at 8 pm on Aug. 4)
In addition to more than 450 arts, crafts and
culinary competitions and demonstrations,
you’ll find puppetry, food sculpting, fashion
shows and more.
Natural Resources Park
9 am - 7:30 pm
Enjoy free fishing for kids, kayaking and
archery at this beautiful eight-acre park
maintained by the Ohio Department of
Natural Resources. There are so many
things to observe such as native Ohio
wildlife, a log cabin, a geological walkway
and a tall grass prairie. The outdoor
amphitheater hosts free music and
entertaining programs throughout the day.
Show schedules available at OhioStateFair.
com
Check out various sporting events
throughout the Fair.
Cardinal Shelter
Open all Fair hours
Enjoy a break at this relaxing picnic area
just east of the Cardinal Gate. Interested
in reserving it for a family reunion or group
outing? Call 614-297-0735.
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Buildings & Stages
American Family Insurance
Gazebo Stage
Show schedules available at OhioStateFair.
com
Fairgoers will be amazed and entertained
by astonishing jugglers, comedic
performers and talented musicians at this
stage, located near Central Park.
Gilligan Complex
8 am - 10 pm
Horse and dairy cattle exhibits, as well
as a fully-functioning milking parlor, are
highlights of this building. An air-conditioned
restaurant is attached.
Heritage Crafts Building
10 am - 9 pm (closes at 8 pm on Aug. 4)
Artisans demonstrate and sell their
traditional wares. Stop by for fun activities
such as soap cutting, floral design and
whistle making.
Main Street Stage presented by
CD102.5
Show schedules available at OhioStateFair.
com
Catch a little bit of everything at the Main
Street Stage, from free live music to
amazing hypnosis shows.
MarketPlace Building
10 am - 9 pm (closes at 8 pm on Aug. 4)
Visit commercial and informational
booths with a variety of novelties, jewelry,
demonstration items, home remodelers,
state agencies, attractions, as well as the
International Food Court and an Ohio beer
and wine sales location.
Martin Janis 50+ Center presented
by Humana
8 am - 6 pm
This full-service recreation center features
live entertainment, great food, a variety of
activities and demonstrations in stained
glass, lapidary, painting and a scenic 15mile track operating model railroad.
O’Neill Building presented by Ohio
Soybean Council
8 am - 10 pm
Check out swine exhibits, a sow and her
piglets and the Pork Shoppe.
Rabbit and Poultry Pavilion
presented by Ohio Soybean
Council
Voinovich Livestock & Trade
Center presented by Ohio Soybean
Council
8 am - 10 pm
This expansive building is home to beef
exhibits and educational activities.
Youth Arts Exhibit
8 am - 10 pm
Roosters crow to wake the grounds at this
pavilion, home to rabbits, chickens and
educational exhibits.
9 am - 9 pm (closes at 8 pm on Aug. 4)
Browse the Ohio youth arts showcase and
participate in activities and crafts in this
facility located on the north side of the Cox
Fine Arts Center.
Rhodes Center
Youth Center
8 am - 8 pm
Some competitions and fashion shows are
held in this building’s auditorium.
Shoppes at North Commercial
10 am - 9 pm (closes at 8 pm on Aug. 4)
Commercial and informational booths
offering a variety of wares are housed in
this open air shopping mecca.
ShowPlace Pavilion
Open all Fair hours
A variety of sporting events and
performances will take place at this
pavilion.
9 am - 8 pm (closes at 6 pm on Aug. 4)
Stop by to participate in interactive activities
and see competitions, projects and displays
from youth organizations including Ohio
4-H, Boy Scouts of America, Camp Fire
USA, Ohio Family, Career and Community
Leaders of America (FCCLA), FFA, Girl
Scouts of the USA, Ohio Grange and
Junior Grange, and Time Warner Cable
Technology Education and Engineering
Showcase.
Taste of Ohio Café presented by
Ohio’s Country Journal and Ohio
Ag Net
10 am - 9 pm
Sit down for a locally-produced meal or
a glass of Ohio beer or wine in this airconditioned facility and attached patio.
Enjoy the chance to learn great recipes
from the daily Heartland Cuisine Cooking
Demonstrations.
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Traditions
Since the first Ohio State Fair in 1850,
many people have picked a favorite
tradition. A few are listed below. What
is your favorite? Tell us on Facebook at
Facebook.com/OhioStateFair.
Butter cow and sculpture
From the first appearance of the butter cow
and calf in 1903, these sculptures made
of butter have been a highlight for Fair
visitors. New cow and calf sculptures, as
well as a surprise sculpture, are created
each year. In 2012, a team of artists worked
451 hours and used 1,900 pounds of butter
to create the masterpiece!
Giant Slide and SkyGlider
These Fair landmarks - the world’s longest
portable sky ride and a 144-foot long slide,
have been permanent traditions since
1969.
Natural Resources Park and
Smokey Bear
This eight-acre park, maintained by the
Ohio Department of Natural Resources,
includes a kayak pond, amphitheater,
covered bridge, geological
walkway, butterfly exhibit,
aviary, free youth fishing,
shaded picnic areas, and
a turn-of-the-century log
cabin. Since the 1970s,
fairgoers have been greeted
in the park by name
by a 14 ½ foot tall
Smokey Bear.
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All-Ohio State Fair Band & Youth
Choir
The All-Ohio State Fair Band (founded in
1925) and All-Ohio State Fair Youth Choir
(founded in 1963) arrive at the Ohio Expo
Center just days before the Fair starts,
learning all of their music in a limited time.
They perform numerous times daily.
Junior Fair Board
The Junior Fair Board (JFB) comprises
youth ages 16 through 21 who represent
various youth organizations and are
actively involved with the annual Ohio State
Fair.
Tips From Fellow Fairgoers
Fair Food
Our Facebook fans have shared tips and
a few of their favorite Fair attractions
and activities to help make your trip a
fun, memorable one:
Taste of the Fair
“Wear your tennis shoes!” – Charlene
“Visit the Natural Resources Park in the
back. Kayaking, fishing, archery, animal
shows. It’s all free with admission.” – Chris
“Listen to the All-Ohio State Fair Youth
Choir” – DaVante
“The SkyGlider … you can see the whole
park from up there!” – Tiffani
“I like watching the competitions in the
DiSalle auditorium, gives you a nice cool
time out.” – Michelle
“Go during the week during the day and
purchase wristbands for rides. Also,
download the Ohio State Fair app for maps
and go to the webpage to print off coupons
for concessions.” – Misty
“The sheep barn, wool demonstrations and
all of the agriculture buildings.” – Linda
“Don’t miss the butter cow. Then turn
around and have some ice cream.” – Eric
“See all of it, the entire fair has something
for everyone and the food is great. You
can’t go wrong!” – Linda
“The art, both kids and adults. The train
exhibit is always cool. The corn dogs are
amazing!” – Rachel
“The log rolling in Natural Resources Park
and all of the animal exhibits” – Holly
“Livestock barns are a must – and then
a lemon shake-up and fried cheese on a
stick!” – Stacey
“Cox Fine Arts Center, petting zoo and 4-H
shows!” – Tracie
“See the cow barn!” – Stephanie
“I always enjoy looking at the poultry
building.” – Dennis
“Be sure to watch the All-Ohio State Fair
Band perform. You will not be disappointed
and no Ohio State Fair is complete without
hearing ‘Stars and Stripes Forever’.” –
Christa
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“I love the butter cow and the Giant Slide!”
– Beth
“Take in EVERYTHING! Spend the day
AND the night!” – John
“The Ag & Hort building is full of free
interactive fun for everyone!” – Heather
“Check the concert schedule. Always
something for just about everyone.” –
Michael
“My family has gone for years. It is not
complete without a cheese sandwich and
a walk through the MarketPlace Building.”
– Angelina
“The Governors Cup 6 hitch draft
competition.” - Jeremy
“Do it all – I can’t wait to go. I’ll be in
Columbus for the Opening Day!” –
Stephanie
Get more of your favorite Fair food this
summer with the new Taste of the Fair
program. Vendors who display the decal
shown on this page are offering smaller
portions of their signature items at a
reduced rate to satisfy both your taste
buds and your wallet!
Fun food facts
• The Ohio State Fair sells 17 different
types of food on a stick, including mini
meatballs, frozen banana and deepfried manicotti.
• Schmidt’s of German Village will
celebrate its 99th year as an
Ohio State Fair vendor this
summer. Famous for Bahama
mamas and cream puffs, Schmidt’s
is the oldest continuous restaurant
participating at the Fair. Over the
years, Schmidt’s has sold more than
1,000,000 sausages!
• Tracey Concessions is a family-owned
and operated vendor that has been
part of the Ohio State Fair since 1956.
Originally started as a way to make
the family a little extra money, the
business began as a Fair location.
Today, the Ohio State Fair is home
to four Tracey concession locations,
known for treats including coney dogs
and root beer floats.
• At the two Ohio Cattlemen’s
Association Fair locations, more than
four tons of beef was sold in the form
of 15,000 burgers and 7,500 ribeyes.
Top Ten Fair Foods
1. French fries
2. Pizza
3. Corn dogs
4. Bulk candy
5. Roasted corn
6. Ice cream cones
7. Barbecue meal
8. Milk shakes
9. Lemon shake-ups
10. Iced tea
What is your favorite? Tell us on
Facebook at www.facebook.com/
OhioStateFair!
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Contests and Competitions
Visit ohiostatefair.com for a complete list of
competitions, dates and times.
Academics
Ohio students will spell their way to the
top at the 4-H Spelling Bee on July 27 in
the Rhodes Center, while artistic students
will display their winning posters from
the statewide Severe Weather Poster
Competition in the DiSalle Creative Arts
Center. Nearly 6,000 youth will showcase
their knowledge in a variety of fields at the
Youth Center.
Agriculture, Horticulture and
Floriculture
Check out home-grown fruits, vegetables,
flowers, homebrewed beer, decorated
scarecrows and gigantic produce entered in
these competitions held in the Nationwide
Donahey Ag & Hort Bldg. presented by the
Ohio Farm Bureau.
Creative Arts
Whether it is sewing, baking, fashion
design, scrapbooking or wacky crafts
involving Brillo® pads and duct tape, the
Creative Arts division in the DiSalle Center
has more than 450 competitions and
thousands of dollars in awards.
Fine Arts
The Cox Fine Arts Center and adjacent
Youth Arts exhibit are modern galleries
featuring more than 200 works from Ohio’s
top artists, live performances and short film
screenings.
Homebrewed Beer
See the list of winning ales, porters, lagers
and more in this exhibit showcasing Ohio’s
top homebrewed beers selected from
hundreds of entries.
Livestock
More than 20,000 animals are exhibited at
the Ohio State Fair!
• Beef cattle (July 24 - Aug. 4)
• Dairy cattle (July 24 - Aug. 4)
• Dog shows (July 29 - Aug. 1)
• Goats (July 18 - 20)
• Horses (July 16 - 20, July 22 - 26,
July 28 - Aug. 4)
• Llamas (July 19 - 20)
• Poultry (July 24 - 28, July 31 - Aug.
4)
• Rabbits (Aug. 1 - 4)
• Sheep (July 23 - Aug. 4)
• Swine (July 25 - 29, Aug. 1 - 4)
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Sporting Competitions
You’ll find a large number of sporting
events at the Fair:
• 5K (July 28)
• Baton twirling (July 27)
• Boxing (July 24 - 27)
• Cheerleading and Dance (Aug. 4)
• Monster Arm Wrestling (July 28)
• Power Lifting (Aug. 3)
• Taekwondo Tournament (Aug. 3)
• Wrestling (July 27 -28)
And more!
Here are a few of our other interesting
competitions:
•Food Sculpting (July 31)
•Kiddie Tractor Pull (July 30)
•Operative Plasterers and
Cement Masons Great
Lakes Apprentice
(July 24 - 26)
•Ohio Auctioneers
Bid Call (July 29)
Sale of Champions and Youth
Scholarships
Aug. 4, 2 pm, WCOL Celeste Center
The Sale of Champions Livestock
Auction, created in 1968, boasts some
of the highest bids of any state fair in the
nation each year. Funds received over
the maximum cash award go into the
Youth Reserve Program, which allots
funds for scholarships, the Outstanding
Market Exhibitor Program, and other
Fair competition winners. To date, the
Youth Reserve Program has awarded
$2,291,925 to approximately 31,500
youth exhibitors since its inception.
Youth Organizations
The Fair is dedicated to
promoting education among youth
organizations including Ohio 4-H,
Boy Scouts of America, Camp
Fire USA, Ohio Family, Career and
Community Leaders of America
(FCCLA), FFA, Girl Scouts of the USA,
Ohio Grange Youth and Junior Grange,
and the Time Warner Cable Technology
Education & Engineering Showcase.
While each of these organizations has a
unique mission, they all promote education
and leadership.
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Entertainers
Meet the amazing entertainers who will
perform on stage and across the grounds
at this year’s Ohio State Fair.
Strolling
The Amazing Giants NEW!
July 24 - 29
Worldwide stilt walkers based out of Ohio’s
heartland are fun, funky and touch the sky!
Bill’s Nautical Nonsense
Daily
Be serenaded by our floating troubadour in
his own land yacht.
Civil War musicians NEW!
Daily
Nineteenth century music buffs Steve Ball
(July 24 - 29), Bob Ford (July 30 - Aug.
2) and Tom Stiverson (Aug. 3 and 4) will
add some historic tunes to the Civil War
Encampment
on the Rhodes
Center Lawn.
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Danny DeVito celebrity impersonator
NEW!
July 24 - 29
Stop for a picture with this uncanny Danny
doppelganger and see if you can tell the
difference between him and the real thing.
Dean Alan Simms & Friends
Daily
Be amazed as Dean Alan Simms belts out
songs and plays the trumpet just like Louis
Armstrong near the Cardinal Gate.
General William T. Sherman
Daily
One of America’s greatest war heroes
will visit with fairgoers while in his natural
surroundings at the Civil War Encampment
on the Rhodes Center Lawn.
The Giant Sliders Clown Band NEW!
July 24 - 29
When they aren’t clowning
around on the Giant Slide,
these clowns perform
as a sousaphonedriven band.
Entertainers
Jack Nicholson celebrity impersonator
NEW!
July 24 - 29
You can’t handle the truth! Well, the truth is
… it isn’t really the Academy Award-winning
actor - but you’ll have a hard time telling the
difference!
James Johnson’s World Record Balloon
Stunt Show
Daily
How many people can you fit into a six-foot
latex balloon? The current World Record,
held by James Johnson, is 18 at once. Will
you step into his balloon and see if we can
break the record this year?
Matt’s Family Jam
Daily
Matt and Lisa Rolf and their children are a
modern-day family band, performing feelgood, family-friendly music for all ages.
“Miss Dolly” Parton NEW!
July 24 - 29
Get your picture with this Dolly Parton lookalike as she strolls through the Fair.
President Abraham Lincoln
Daily
History will come alive as this legendary
former president of the United States visits
the Ohio State Fair.
Project Dynamite NEW!
July 30 - Aug. 4
Tricks, music and improv come together
for amazing performances that have been
described as “Saturday Night Live meets
Cirque du Soleil.”
The Tangled Threads NEW!
July 30 - Aug. 4
A sky-high puppeteer and his doll-like
marionette stroll through the grounds in this
exhibition of traveling entertainment with a
twist.
Those Funny Little People NEW!
July 24 - 29
Billy Bob and Loretta of “America’s Got
Talent” performing group Those Funny Little
People will dance and mingle their way
through the Fair.
David Crone NEW!
July 30 - Aug. 4
He’s no dummy, but he sure does hang
out with a few. Comedy ventriloquist David
Crone and his band of loyal characters are
sure to put smiles on faces.
ZuZu African Acrobats
Daily
Witness this spectacular, high-energy
show featuring fast pyramid building,
limbo, contortion, bottle balancing, chair
stacks, hand balancing and more - starring
participants from “America’s Got Talent!”
Double Vision Magic NEW!
July 24 - 29
Are you seeing double? Nope. They are
identical twins Mitchell and Michael in this
“two-of-a-kind” magic performance with a
twin twist.
American Family Insurance
Gazebo Stage
Bronkar
July 24 - 29
Now is your chance to see the world’s only
rhythmic juggling beatboxer! He’ll blend
music and comedy with his energetic
persona to create a signature “circus of
sound.”
Paul Isaak NEW!
Daily
“High energy” and “fun-filled” are just two
phrases that have been used time and time
again to describe Paul Isaak’s captivating
juggling, unicycling, Machete-shaving show.
Dave Kaplan NEW!
July 30 - Aug. 4
Check out the eccentric one-man variety
show of this virtuoso juggler, magician,
inventor, musician and deadpan physical
comedian.
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Entertainers
Main Street Stage presented by
CD102.5
El Gleno Grande
Daily
Known simply as “the horse guy,”
internationally-known Gleno and his trusty
horse perform hilarious physical comedy
that is fun for all ages.
Ron Diamond, July
24 - 29
Prepare to be amazed by
this accomplished mentalist,
hypnotist and magician at one of
his interactive daily shows. Each one
brings a unique, memorable experience
to be retold for years to come.
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Free Live Music
Catherine Hickland, July 30 - Aug. 4 NEW!
Catherine Hickland may best be known for
her role as Lindsey in “One Life to Live,”
but she is also an acclaimed hypnotist and
hypnotherapist who can put on a powerful,
entertaining, familyfriendly, hilarious
show.
Don Ray Band, southern rock
July 24, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
Veteran’s Variety Show
July 28, Main Street Stage (1:30 pm, 6 pm)
Payton Taylor, contemporary country
July 24, Gazebo Stage (Noon, 2 pm)
Evil Ways Band, Santana tribute
July 28, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
Mark Leach, contemporary country
July 25, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
Abby Ray, country rock
July 28, Gazebo Stage (11:30 am, 1 pm)
A Side of Taylors, Americana / bluegrass
July 25, Gazebo Stage (Noon, 2 pm)
Josh Hill Band, blues rock
July 29, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
LYD, R&B
July 26, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
Phillips & Kerns Acoustic Duo, country rock
July 29, Gazebo Stage (Noon, 2 pm)
Jessica Hannan, country and classic rock
July 26, Gazebo Stage (Noon, 2 pm)
Soul Satyr, electric blues
July 30, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
Ohio Idol, singing competition
July 27, Main Street Stage (7 - 9 pm)
Justin Billotte, country
July 30, Gazebo Stage (Noon, 2 pm)
John Schmid, Johnny Cash tribute
July 27, Gazebo Stage (11:30 am, 1:30 pm)
Jonalee White, classic rock and oldies
July 31, Gazebo Stage (Noon, 2 pm)
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Free Live Music
Lost State of Franklin, Americana
July 31, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
Konde Norteño
Aug. 3, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
Lee Gantt Band, country rock
Aug. 1, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
Stacy Grubb, bluegrass / Americana
Aug. 3, Gazebo Stage (Noon, 2 pm)
Kent Dockus, electric violin
Aug. 1, Gazebo Stage (Noon, 2 pm)
Black Horse, classic country
Aug. 4, Main Street Stage (11 am, 1 pm)
The Zen Band, pop / R&B / Motown
Aug. 2, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
Mojo Theory, blues
Aug. 4, Main Street Stage (5 pm, 7:30 pm)
Highway Patrol Drum & Bugle Corp.
Aug. 2, Gazebo Stage (Noon, 2 pm)
The Goodle Boys, bluegrass / Americana
Aug. 4, Gazebo Stage (11 am, 1 pm)
The Broken Lights, classic rock and blues
Aug. 3, Main Street Stage (11 am, 1 pm)
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