Ohio’s 163rd state fair opens today in Columbus
COLUMBUS (AP) — Ohio’s 163rd state fair features a visit from Gov. John Kasich and a variety of new attractions at the fairgrounds in Columbus.
The fair opens today and offers a new show by a team of expert acrobatic divers. New fair competitions include candy bouquet and recycled metal sculpture contests.
More than 190 food vendors are attending this year’s fair. Some new food items include banana cream pie ice cream and shrimp and beef kebabs. Pogo professionals and ventriloquists have been added to this year’s entertainment.
Ohio Department of Agriculture inspectors started safety checks of the fair’s 76 rides last week and worked through 90-degree temperatures to complete those inspections in time for the fair’s opening. Inspectors will continue monitoring rides through the end of the fair on Aug. 7.