Guest Column from State Representative Tim Ginter: "Wheel on Down" to the Columbiana County Fair

This coming week, Columbiana County will host its 172nd county fair, taking place at the fairgrounds from July 31st through August 6th. Since the first fair in 1845, the storied event has hosted a number of unique attractions, from horse buggy competitions to ostrich races. While those kinds of activities may no longer take place today, the Columbiana County Fair continues its long tradition of being a family-friendly environment for all.

One of my favorite parts of the fair is its commitment to our youth. With a dedicated and well-developed junior fair program that coordinates with 4-H, Future Farmers of America, Boy Scouts, and other organizations, the fair helps to cultivate leadership and citizenship in our children. After all, they are the future generation of leaders in Ohio, and through the junior fair, boys and girls alike can learn firsthand what it means to give back to the community.

Each day of the fair is filled with a different schedule of events. Of course, there is always an array of animal and livestock judging, from your more typical steer and goat competitions to an alpaca judging. Some of the most loved events take place in the grandstand, so make sure to check the fair schedule to see when your favorite shows take place. There is much to choose from, including free concerts, bull riding and barrel racing, demolition derbies, and more.

Of course, as with any fair or festival, there are rides and food available for people of all ages. The best thing about the county fair is that it not only brings the community together, but it also presents an opportunity for families to come out and enjoy an inexpensive day or night as one. I encourage you to support the Columbiana County Fair this year, and I hope to see you there!