Regarding car break-ins, Shoults urged visitors not to leave valuables in vehicles and highlighted the new surveillance cameras.
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She also recommended parking on the fairgrounds or using the free park-and-ride shuttle from Columbus State Community College.
On firearms, Nihiser advised leaving them at home for everyone's safety, though they are not prohibited on the grounds.
Lost-child booths staffed by the Ohio State Highway Patrol are set up at all main entrances.
Parents are encouraged to use wristbands or stickers for their children and create reunification plans using landmarks.
“Parents should take a photo of their child before entering the fair to have an image of what they are wearing that day,” Nihiser said.
New Ohio Agriculture Center Opens
Separately, officials opened the new Ohio Agriculture Center ahead of the fair. The 177,000-square-foot facility replaces older buildings and showcases Ohio’s agricultural industry.
Governor Mike DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine, and Ohio FFA leaders attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“We love agriculture,” Ohio FFA State President Austin Manning said. “It's the greatest industry in the world.”
DeWine highlighted agriculture's importance to the state economy, noting the abundance of soybeans, corn, and hay across Ohio.
The center features exhibits on drone technology, precision agriculture, farming equipment, animal displays, cooking demonstrations, and the Taste of Ohio Café with locally grown products.
Manning hopes the center inspires young people to explore careers in agriculture.
“Something like this that gets people excited about agriculture, no better place to do it than the state fair,” he said.
Designed for year-round use, the center will host youth programs, livestock and equine events, STEM competitions, and community gatherings beyond fair season.
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The 2026 Ohio State Fair runs from July 29 through August 9 at 717 E. 17th Ave.
