Visitors heading to the Ohio State Fair this week can expect comfortable temperatures before rain and thunderstorms become more likely Saturday and Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.
The 2026 Ohio State Fair opened July 29 and runs through Aug. 9 at the Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds. Fairgoers visiting during the first few days will enjoy sunny skies and seasonable temperatures before a wetter pattern
arrives over the weekend.July 30 is expected to be sunny with a high near 83 degrees, followed by mostly sunny skies on July 31 with temperatures climbing to around 86 degrees.
The forecast changes Aug. 1, when forecasters say there's a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2 p.m. High temperatures are expected
to reach about 84 degrees.
Rain chances increase Saturday night, with showers and thunderstorms likely and a 70% chance of precipitation.
Aug. 2 is also expected to bring periods of showers and thunderstorms. The National Weather Service forecasts a 60% chance of rain, with showers possible in the morning and thunderstorms becoming more likely during the afternoon. Highs will remain in the low 80s.
While the weekend won't be a complete washout, fairgoers may want to bring rain gear and monitor the forecast for changing conditions, especially if attending concerts, rides or other outdoor events.
What to expect at the Ohio State Fair
This year's Ohio State Fair features several new attractions alongside returning favorites.
The iconic butter cow sculpture, unveiled July 28, celebrates America's 250th birthday with a patriotic display honoring the nation's semiquincentennial.
Fairgoers can also sample dozens of new foods debuting this year, ranging from sweet treats to creative twists on classic fair favorites, while enjoying concerts, livestock competitions, midway rides and exhibits throughout the fairgrounds.
Trending reporter Amani Bayo can be reached at abayo@dispatch.com.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Ohio State Fair gets sunny start before weekend storms
