While you’re bound to see cotton candy, giant stuffed animals, bright, flashy lights and endless varieties of food at this year’s Ohio State Fair, some other things might surprise you.

There aren’t many places you can travel to that offer a cow and calf duo made of butter, talented musicians, parades, concerts and thousands of animals all in one place. To check out all of this and more, there’s really only one place to go. The Ohio State Fair offers a diverse mix of experiences for adventurous “foodies” to those simply looking to spend a day with the family.

In addition to the typical offerings of the fair, see how agriculture plays an important role in your everyday life at Ohio Farm Bureau Federation and Nationwide’s “Land and Living: Agriculture . . . Your Link to Life” display, located in the Nationwide Donahey Ag and Hort Building.

“The state fair gives us a great opportunity to tell the agriculture story,” said Cara Lawson, director of community engagement for Ohio Farm Bureau Federation. “It’s one of the best educational and recreational opportunities in the state; it’s fun and informative for everyone.”

With a variety of hands-on-experiences, the “Land and Living” exhibit features several exciting components for adults and children alike. Those with soft spots in their hearts for baby animals should visit the puppies and baby chicks. Here visitors can see and learn about the playful puppies that will have important jobs on the farm when they mature. Also see baby chicks, ducks and turkeys hatch live daily from the incubator located within the display, or on the live online puppy and chick cam.

A highlight for children in the exhibit is a climbing wall resembling a larger-than-life sized ear of corn. This oddity is bound to challenge beginners and advanced climbers and is free of charge. While supplies last, climbers who reach the top of the corn wall will win a prize and young climbers will receive a coupon for a free Bob Evans kid’s meal. After a climb, children can plant a free flower to take home.

Many of Ohio’s commodity groups will also participate in the exhibit. Displays and promotional pieces representing nearly all of Ohio’s agricultural industries will enlighten visitors with interactive components and educational information about their businesses. Visitors can capture the memory of their visit to the “Land and Living Display” with a free group photo.

The Land and Living display will feature many new exhibits. See animals from the Columbus Zoo with live demonstrations each Thursday and Friday during the fair at 10, noon and 2; explore Ohio Farm Bureau’s member benefits at stations throughout the building and receive an Our Ohio calendar after visiting each station; First Lady’s Day corn wall races will be held July 27 for youth in kindergarten through sixth grade; and vote for the “people’s choice” award in the county horticulture contest titled “Agriculture in our backyard.” Back for a second year is giant squash carver Gus Smithhisler July 28 and Aug. 1.

A trip to the Ohio State Fair is sure to be filled with something enticing for everyone in the family.

Ohio State Fair Highlights

• Find out why “Ag is Cool!” All Ohio students who completed the fourth grade in 2012, as well as a parent or chaperone, are invited to attend the fair for free any one day July 25 through Aug. 5 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., when they present a valid report card. While at the fair students will visit a variety of “Ag is Cool” stations where they will learn about crops, livestock and more!  
• Savor the flavor of the WNCI Food Highway! You’re sure to find something for even the pickiest eater with more than 180 vendors. You can even enjoy locally grown food in the Taste of Ohio Café presented by Ohio’s Country Journal & Ohio Ag Net including the new Pork Parfait which combines layers of shredded pork, mashed potatoes and BBQ Sauce. 
• Explore the Natural Resources Park! Go fishing, take a kayak for a spin, or watch a show in the shady amphitheater. There is also a variety of wildlife that calls the park home.
• Catch some free entertainment at the Gazebo or Main Street Stage presented by CD101 @102.5! With everything from music and magic to comedy and hypnosis, there’s certainly something for everyone.
• Get a rush on the Mountain Dew Midway! With rides of all sizes, games and more, you’re sure to find a thrill for all ages. Discounted wristbands vouchers to ride all day are available at Kroger and Ticketmaster locations before the Fair.

The 159th Ohio State Fair will run July 25 through to Aug. 5. Hours are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, except Aug. 5 the fair closes at 8 p.m. Admission prices are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and children under 12. Children under 5 are free.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit Ohio State Fair’s website, Facebook page, and follow on Twitter.

Learn more about “Ag is Cool!”