The countdown is on for one of Champaign County’s biggest traditions.
The 2026 Champaign County Fair is set to celebrate its 185th year, bringing together agriculture, entertainment, family fun, and community pride for another memorable week. Along with the familiar livestock shows, 4-H and FFA competitions, showmanship events, carnival rides, exhibits, and fair food, visitors will notice several exciting improvements and new attractions across the fairgrounds.
One of the biggest additions this year is a brand-new horse barn located near the horse arena. The new facility doubles the horse capacity in that area of the fairgrounds, providing additional space for exhibitors and helping accommodate the continued growth of the fair’s equestrian events.
The grandstand lineup also features something new for 2026 while bringing back crowd favorites.
Truck and tractor pull fans can enjoy two nights of action on August 7 and 8, while a brand-new Full Throttle Monster Truck Show rolls into the fairgrounds on August 13. In addition to the monster truck competition, families will have the opportunity to purchase rides in a real monster truck, giving children and adults alike the chance to experience the excitement firsthand.
The fair will once again wrap up with one of its most anticipated events—the always-packed Demolition Derby on August 14, closing out another year of fair festivities.
Fairgoers will also notice improvements when arriving on the east side of the grounds. New access to parking and ticket sales has been added at the Powell Avenue entrance, making it easier for visitors to enter the fairgrounds. A map is included below, with pink arrows showing parking locations and orange stars marking where admission tickets can be purchased.
Another welcome addition this year is the full return of Senior Day Lunch. Seniors are invited to enjoy a free lunch on Tuesday, August 11, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., continuing a longtime fair tradition.
Fair president Wayne Cook describes these new additions and his excitement level for the fair.
Beyond the new improvements, the heart of the Champaign County Fair remains the same. Livestock competitions, showmanship contests, Junior Fair events, agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and community gatherings will once again take center stage as thousands of visitors make their way through the gates.
In his message printed in this year’s fair book, Cook reflected on the importance of the fair and the people who make it possible.
“On behalf of the Senior Fair Board, Secretary/Treasurer, and Junior Fair Board, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome everyone to the 2026 Champaign County Fair. This being our country’s 250th anniversary makes us very proud to be preparing for the 185th County Fair.
I would like to thank the 4-H Advisors, Scout Leaders, FFA Instructors, OSU Extension and countless volunteers who help make this the greatest Junior Fair in the State of Ohio. I would also like to recognize the youth of this county for their hard work and dedication to their respective projects. We should all be very proud of our youth!
As a board, it is our honor to continue to improve this fair and fairgrounds. But it could not be done without the many volunteers we work with. We have made several additions and upgrades to our fairgrounds again this year, so whether you helped with a project, made a donation, or simply stopped by with a suggestion—it all matters. As we continue to grow, it is our hope that your support continues as well. So, thank you for what you have done, what you are doing, and what you continue to do.
This fair holds cherished memories for so many people. It is undoubtedly the largest gathering in our county each year. So, it is our hope, as you gather here with family, friends and neighbors, that you reminisce and create your own cherished memories. Please come out and enjoy the greatest county fair in the state!”
With new attractions, improved facilities, expanded parking access, returning traditions, and a full schedule of agricultural and family entertainment, the Champaign County Fair is ready to celebrate 185 years of bringing the community together.
