Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine, and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel officially opened the 171st Ohio State Fair today, celebrating the culmination of multi-year construction projects that have significantly modernized the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds. The ceremony marked the debut of the new Ohio Showcase Building and other extensive improvements.
The comprehensive renovation effort introduced two new buildings, four renovated existing structures, the new Ohio Children’s Carousel, a new amphitheater, and a misting area. Governor DeWine expressed excitement, stating, “The new and improved Ohio State Fair tells Ohio's story by showcasing everything that's great about our state, and we hope it reminds everyone that whether you came here six months ago or if your family has been here for six generations, you're an Ohioan and Ohio's story is your story.”
A centerpiece of the upgrades is the Ohio Showcase Building, featuring the "Shaping Ohio" exhibit and a new Food Hall. The "Shaping Ohio" exhibit, developed with the Ohio History Connection, offers an immersive 360-degree film and displays on Ohio's innovation, people, landscapes, and communities, including a replica of the 1905 Wright Flyer III. Megan Wood, Executive Director and CEO of the Ohio History Connection, said, “The Shaping Ohio exhibit connects fairgoers to Ohio’s past by bringing history to life right before their eyes.”
These improvements are part of Governor DeWine's Expo 2050 initiative. In the days leading up to the Fair's opening, Governor and First Lady DeWine also celebrated the opening of the Ohio Agriculture Center, the renovated Dairy Building, and the Ohio Children's Carousel. Lt. Governor Tressel highlighted the fair's role, saying, “It’s a celebration of every corner of Ohio and a great place to make memories while experiencing all the fair has to offer.” Adam Heffron, Executive Director of the Ohio State Fair, added, "We're proud to open a new chapter with the completion of this work." The fair runs through August 9, continuing its traditions of celebrating Ohio's agriculture, entertainment, and communities. A full schedule of events, attractions, concerts, and competitions is available.