COLUMBUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The 2024 Ohio State Fair is in full swing, and there are still three days left to experience all the excitement. On Friday, Aug. 2, fairgoers can look forward to a day packed with free live music, livestock exhibitions, thrilling performances, rides, games, shopping, and delicious fair food.

Free Live Entertainment

The Ohio State Fair offers free live music and performances daily. On Friday, Aug. 2, visitors can enjoy the Exploit Duo at noon and 2 p.m. on the Wellcare Gazebo Stage. The Ohio State Highway Patrol Drum & Bugle Corps will also perform at 10 a.m. on the same stage. Head over to the Main Street Stage presented by Ohio Lottery to see Kazual perform at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Additional entertainment can be found throughout the fairgrounds, including The Dog House, Natural Resources Park Amphitheater, Entertainment Alley, Nerveless Nocks, Taste of Ohio Pavilion & Beer Garden, Kiddieland, and strolling performers.

Livestock Competitions

Livestock enthusiasts can visit the Rabbit & Poultry Pavilion starting at 9 a.m. for the Junior Poultry Market Chickens & Turkeys Showmanship, Breeding Poultry & Waterfowl, and Junior Rabbit Showmanship. The Brown Sheep Building will host the Open Tunis Show at 12 p.m.

Telhio and Ronald McDonald House Charities

Fairgoers can support families at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio by donating “wish list” items at booths outside Gates 1, 3, 8, and 10. Donors will receive a voucher for a BOGO free admission ticket before 6 p.m. Accepted items include canned chicken or vegetables, disposable plates or silverware, napkins, paper towels, and condiments.

“Back to School with Kroger” Scavenger Hunt

Visit Kroger’s booth in front of the Rhodes Center to participate in a back-to-school scavenger hunt. Obtain a special map and search for one of the twenty-five special vouchers hidden around the fairgrounds. Vouchers can be redeemed for a chance to win a backpack and a $25 gift card for school supplies at Kroger.

The Ohio Players and Midnight Star

The Ohio Players and Midnight Star, renowned for their soul, funk, and R&B music, will perform at the WCOL Celeste Center at 7:30 p.m. Concert tickets, which include fair admission when purchased in advance, are available at ticketmaster.com/ohiostatefair.

Fair Details

The 2024 Ohio State Fair runs from July 24 through Aug. 4. For more information, visit ohiostatefair.com or call 1-888-OHO-EXPO or 1-614-644-FAIR. A full list of events and attractions with times and locations can be found at ohiostatefair.com/events.