Big changes planned for 2026 Ohio State Fair
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — The 2025 Ohio State Fair has ended, but eyes are already on next year as major construction projects are happening on the fairgrounds.
“When it comes to the end, it's always kind of bittersweet," Alicia Shoults, deputy director of operations and experience at the Ohio Expo Center and State Fair, said. "We’ve had a great run, seen so many people, it’s like a reunion, bringing everyone back together. But we also get to start looking toward 2026."
"Greetings from 2026" signs were up around the grounds during this year's fair. A temporary building also showed fairgoers renderings of what the property will look like next year as four existing buildings are being renovated and two brand-new buildings are being built: a 177,000-square-foot Ohio Agriculture Center and what's being called the Ohio Showcase.
“We’ve had things the same way for so long and we want it in a way that not only can really beneficial for the fair but can also really function for the other 350 days of the year when we have events here at the facility," Shoults said.
During the fair, the Ohio Showcase will feature the state's history and have a food hall with space for six Ohio restaurants to set up. The Ohio Agriculture Center will be the new home for the Taste of Ohio Cafe for food from Ohio farmers, and will have educational areas.
“Agriculture exhibits that you’ve maybe seen here and there in different areas, including our animal care center with baby animals, can all be under one roof to create that holistic experience from farm to fork," Shoults said.
Shoults said that when the fair is not going on, the new buildings will be able to hold all kinds of events like weddings, conferences, sports competitions, and more.
“It’s definitely going to be a game-changer here," she said. "The projects you see are really going to change the landscape for us here in central Ohio."
A new town square area will also be built. Infrastructure improvements are being made around the grounds as well. All of the work is going to cost around $460 million and is expected to be completed for the 2026 fair.
A new entryway on the north end of the fairgrounds debuted with this year's fair.