The Ohio State Fair returns Wednesday, July 29, through Sunday, August 9, inviting fairgoers to experience the many ways Ohio 4‑H is showcased throughout the fair. Fairgoers are invited to visit the Lausche Youth Exploration Space, where they can connect with members of the Ohio 4‑H Teen Leadership Council and the Ohio 4‑H Foundation Board, watch daily 4‑H project judging, and celebrate the hard work of Ohio 4‑H members.
While at the fair, guests can also explore the Natural Resources Park—home of Smokey Bear—enjoy games on the midway, attend 4‑H livestock shows, and try delicious food from vendors across the grounds.
4-H Project Judging
Judging for 4‑H special interest projects will take place throughout the fair in the Lausche Youth Exploration Space. Select project categories will also be judged in the Rhodes Center and at the Agricultural Engineering Building on The Ohio State University campus.
For full details about project judging at the Ohio State Fair, visit ohio4h.org/nonlivestockguidebook.
Thank You for Helping Our 4-H’ers Shine!
Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, the top 4‑H member in each project class will once again receive a clock trophy in recognition of their outstanding work. Sponsor support helps create a memorable and meaningful Ohio State Fair experience for our youth—one they will carry with them for years to come.
To view the complete list of 2026 clock trophy sponsors, visit go.osu.edu/4hclocktrophies.
For information about sponsoring a clock trophy at the 2027 Ohio State Fair, contact the Ohio 4‑H Foundation at ohio4hfoundation@osu.edu.
Experience a 4-H Livestock Show
In addition to project judging, 4‑H livestock shows will take place throughout the fair. Visitors can watch 4‑H members showcase their dedication and skills as they exhibit projects ranging from goats and horses to ducks and rabbits.
A complete list of species‑specific show schedules is available at go.osu.edu/osflivestockjudging.
Check Out the Ohio 4-H Promotional Booth
While in the Lausche Youth Exploration Space, be sure to stop by the Ohio 4‑H Promotional Booth. Members of the Ohio 4‑H Teen Leadership Council and the Ohio 4‑H Foundation Board will lead fun, hands‑on educational activities for youth and families.
Visitors can learn more about Ohio 4‑H, and alumni are encouraged to submit or update their contact information to stay connected with Ohio 4‑H news and opportunities.
Nearby, Ohio State University College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences faculty, staff, and students will offer interactive activities highlighting the college and its academic majors for prospective students.
Let’s Hear From Our 4-H Alumni!
Each afternoon just before the awards program, a 4‑H alum will share how their 4‑H experiences shaped their personal growth and guided them in their current career.
Celebrate the impact of Ohio 4‑H by attending the daily awards programs, which begin around 5 p.m. each day of project judging.
