July Ohio Festivals & Events in Mid Summer

Admission to the Ashville 4th Of July Celebration is free.

• When: June 30 – July 4th every year
• Location: (Map It) 200 East Station St. in Ashville, Ohio
• Phone: 740-207-1865
• Web: www.ashville4thofjuly.com/

Ashville 4th of July Celebration:  For more than 80 years, families have gathered to celebrate a day of freedom at this festival. For the first couple of days, the party begins with some good old fashioned food, fun, and entertainment. Ashville’s 4^th of July Celebration is famous for its colossal fish sandwiches and Triple Treat Shows. But the real show is on the 4^th. To kick off the big day, the festival starts with a Grand Parade. Throughout the afternoon there’s entertainment, food, and contests. And of course, as for a grand finale, there is a firework show.

Admission to Rhythm On The River is free.

• When: Fridays in July beginning at 8 p.m.
• Location: (Map It) Riverside Amphitheater in downtown Pomeroy, Ohio
• Phone: 740-992-6524 or 1-877-MEIGS-CO
• Web: click here

Pomeroy, Ohio’s “Rhythm on the River” is a series of free concerts held on Friday evenings throughout the Summer. Well attended by families and individuals alike, the Rhythm on the River shows are a wonderful way to spend a nice summer eve congregating with friends and neighbors.

Chagrin Valley Jumper Classic requires a general admission ticket.

• When: July 3 – 12, 2026
• Location: (Map It) 9250 E. Washington St. in Chagrin Falls, Ohio
• Web: click here

Chagrin Valley Jumper Classic:  One of Northern Ohio’s summer highlights is the popular Hunter Jumper Classic, held every July at the Chagrin Valley’s picturesque Cleveland Metroparks Polo Field. In past years, the show has hosted more than 500 competitors from over 30 states and several foreign countries. The event is organized by the volunteers of the non-profit 501(c)(3) Chagrin Valley PHA (Professional Horsemen’s Association) Horse Show, Inc.

The highlight of the show is the Cleveland Grand Prix. The Cleveland Grand Prix holds historic significance in the equestrian world as the first showjumping Grand Prix held in this nation, debuting in 1965. In addition to the two weeks of exciting horse show jumping competition, the show also features the following: an opening weekend competition highlighting riders from Northeast Ohio and the surrounding areas, family activities, canine events, great food, and great shopping.

Admission to the Gallipolis River Recreation Festival is free.

• When:  Always July 3 & 4 from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Location: (Map It) Gallipolis City Park at 16 State Street in Gallipolis, Ohio
• Phone:  740-446-0596 or 740-446-6882
• Web: click here

Gallipolis River Recreation Festival:  For almost fifty years, the Annual Gallipolis River Recreation Festival, sponsored by the Gallia County Chamber of Commerce, has been held over the 4^th of July, with the magnificent Ohio River as a backdrop.  The City Park, occupying one full block in the center of the historic downtown, and First Avenue along the River, provide the ideal venue.

The three-day celebration features daily entertainment, including national and local musical talent, a special Kids Day with multiple activities and prizes throughout the day, outstanding food vendors, crafters, a live auction, Queen contests, baby contests, amusement rides, an art exhibit (both for youth and adult), an impressive Parade and as a grand finale, a fireworks extravaganza!  Each year, the River Recreation Festival grows and has become the high point of community celebration, attracting thousands of residents and travelers from across the country.

Admission to the Americana Festival is free.

• When:  Always July 4th
• Location: (Map It) 27 North Main Street in Centerville, Ohio
• Phone: 937-433-5898
• Web: click here

Americana Festival (Centerville-Washington Township) is held in Centerville, Ohio:  This is an old-fashioned celebration of our nation’s birthday. Over 70,000 people annually attend this one-day event. The festival features a 5K family run, a street fair with over 300 arts & crafts exhibitors, food vendors, and live entertainment all day. A 21-acre off-street park area is devoted to entertaining children and includes everything from pony rides and a water feature to a petting zoo and games. There is a 100+ unit street parade and a large classic & antique car and truck show. The day culminates with a spectacular fireworks display.

Admission to the New Richmond on the Ohio Cardboard Boat Regatta is Free.

• When: July 4, 2026 (race is Saturday at 1pm)
• Location: (Map It) New Richmond, Ohio
• Phone: 513-403-1675
• Web: click here

The New Richmond on the Ohio Cardboard Boat Regatta – The Annual New Richmond Race is a wild time. Over 70 wild, wacky, and crafty cardboard boats take to the water for racing competitions. Don’t miss the fun along the Ohio River in New Richmond, Ohio. As the event creators say, “Cardboard & water…what could possibly go wrong?” Also, check out the Cardboard Boat Museum.

Admission to the Loudonville Classic Car Show is free.

• When: July 4, 2026, from 9am – 4pm
• Where: (Map It) Historic downtown Loudonville, Ohio
• Phone: 419-994-4789
• Web: click here

The Loudonville Classic Car Show & Fireworks:  Enjoy more than 500 cars rolling into town for the day. Listen to live music! Taste great food. It’s a wonderful event for the whole family! Visit the downtown shops and restaurants, too.

Get tickets to the Country Concert Music Fest in Ft. Loramie, Ohio.

• When: July 9 – 11, 2026
• Location: (Map It) 7103 State Route 66, Ft. Loramie, Ohio
• Phone: 937-295-3000
• Web: www.countryconcert.com

Country Concert Music Festival in Ft. Loramie, Ohio: This nationally known, three-day music festival attracts thousands and features some of the biggest names in country music.  Enjoy the world’s best country artists in a wonderful outdoor setting.   Check out the website above for the complete lineup of performers and ticket prices for this year’s show.

Admission to the Greenville Farm Power of the Past is $5/person (free for kids 12 and younger)

• When: July 9 – 12, 2026, from 9am – 9pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday and 9am – 3pm Sunday
• Location: (Map It) Darke County Fairgrounds at 800 Sweitzer Street in Greenville, Ohio
• Phone: 937-459-6424
• Web: www.greenvillefarmpower.org

Greenville Farm Power of the Past is an annual event. Take a glimpse into agricultural history as many makes and models of antique farm machinery (anything over 25 years old) are displayed in the shaded areas of the fairgrounds. The fairgrounds echo with the sounds of the stationary gas engines, which range in size from tabletop models to large oil field engines. Exhibitors are often nearby and will share their stories. The horse arena is the location for horse and mule events and the traditional draft horse and pony pull. Grandstand events include Friday night and Saturday morning tractor pulls, a Saturday afternoon tractor parade, and Saturday night garden tractor pulls. Young kids get their chance in the pulling lane at the kiddie tractor pull on Saturday. Special events for ladies are held on Friday and Saturday. The arts, crafts, and flea market area features a wide variety of unique offerings and includes spaces for both indoor and outdoor vendors. Food trucks and trailers offer something for everyone, whether it is mealtime or snack time. Bring your camper and stay awhile. Greenville and Darke County have a rich history and many places to visit before or after the show.

Admission is free (but there is a parking fee).

• Open: July 10 – 12, 2026 (Always the second full weekend in July from Fri – Sun) Friday from 10am – 6pm, Saturday from 10am – 5pm, and Sunday from 10am – 4pm.
• Location: (Map It) Bishop Educational Gardens at 13200 Little Cola Road in Rockbridge, Ohio
• Phone: 1-800-Hocking or 740-969-2873
• Web: www.lilyfest.com

LilyFest is a must-see garden experience that combines Appalachian artwork and folk music with outdoor education. Enjoy the celebration of arts, crafts, music, and gardens. Over 70 artisans display their wares throughout the gardens. Musicians perform a variety of Appalachian styles, instrumental and vocal.

Admission to the Ohio Mennonite Relief Sale & Auction in Wooster is free.

• When: July 10 & 11, 2026 (always the second Fri & Sat in July)
• Where:  (Map It) Location to be confirmed
• Web:  click here

The Ohio Mennonite Relief Sale & Auction is a festival atmosphere where people come from communities far and wide to eat, visit, and buy. The main events are the three auctions:  The Art and Collectible Auction featuring art and collectibles from local and well-known artists, the Quilt Auction featuring all sizes and colors, and the Wood Auction featuring items from local businesses and craftsmen.  There are quilting demonstrations, children’s activities, and live entertainment.  There are booths with needlework, crafts, plants, thousands of used books, and the unique MCC display of items shipped in from 10,000 Villages. Enjoy baked goods, sandwiches, homemade ice cream, and other wonderful specialty foods. The Ohio Mennonite Relief Sale raises money for worldwide relief through the Mennonite Central Committee.

Admission and parking to the Summit County Italian American Festival are free. 

• When: July 10 & 11, 2026
• Location: (Map It) Lock 3 Park at 200 South Main St. in Akron, Ohio
• Web: click here

The Summit County Italian American Festival in Akron has been celebrated for over 60 years. The festival, held every year by the Council of Italian-American Society, celebrates all things Italian. From wine tasting and a pizza-eating contest to fireworks, Italian celebrations offer three days of enjoyment for the whole family. Great traditional food and entertainment are things that everyone can enjoy. There is a homemade wine contest, as well as Italian classics like bocce, morra, and more. A mass is held on Sunday, and after a spaghetti dinner.

Admission to the Vermilion All Washed Up Driftwood Art Contest is free.

• When: July 11, 2026
• Location: (Map It) Exchange Park in Vermilion, Ohio
• Phone: 440-963-0772
• Web: click here

At the Vermilion All Washed Up Driftwood Art Contest, you may be part of the fun as a contestant or stop by and enjoy seeing what can be made from this amazing natural resource abundant on local beaches. Whether you’re a seasoned driftwood sculptor, have an artistic spirit, or are a complete beginner to the art of turning driftwood and recyclable lake treasures into works of art, or want to view these pieces of art, “All Washed Up” is an opportunity to be creative or have fun seeing the creative pieces of art displayed.

All-American Soap Box Derby World Championship Race admission is approximately $10/person.

• When: July 11 – 18, 2026 (The world championship race is on the last day)
• Location: (Map It) 789 Derby Downs Dr. in Akron, Ohio
• Phone: 330-733-8723
• Web: www.soapboxderby.org/

All-American Soap Box Derby World Championship Race in Akron, Ohio: Held every July, this world-famous race has run since 1934. The World Championship finals comprise more than 550 qualifiers from states around the U.S. and several foreign countries. The race attracts over 10,000 spectators and over 1,500 volunteers annually. The race features boy and girl drivers from ages 7-20 who compete in one of three different divisions in these “gravity” races for scholarships and other prizes. Race week at Derby Downs race track is filled with many activities. The race encourages young people to embrace the true spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship in the derby’s history. With decades of race history, the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby World Championship is a new, exciting, all-day event that thousands have enjoyed for generations.

An 1890 Re-enactment Festival

Admission to Early America Live, An 1890 Re-enactment Festival at Jefferson Depot Village is approx.  $10/person, (under 6 is free).

• When: July 11 & 12, 2026 (Always the second Sat & Sun in July:  Sat. 10-5, Sun. 12-5)
• Location: (Map It) Jefferson Depot Village, 147 E. Jefferson St. in  Jefferson, Ohio
• Phone: 440-344-0167
• Web: www.jeffersondepotvillage.org/

Early America Live, An 1890 Re-enactment Festival at Jefferson Depot Village:  1890 becomes “alive” as you enter the gates into the historic 19th-century village. Costumed kinfolk recreate the “period” as you peek into the past in each restored building and on the grounds.   Attend school in the 1838 One-Room Schoolhouse, early recess games, make & take crafts. Candle-making, basketry, dying & spinning wool, and pottery. Herb garden tours, tussie-mussies, pump-organ concert,  Pastor on horseback, and fashion show.

Admission to YSU Summer Festival of the Arts in Youngstown is free.

• When: July  11 & 12, 2026
• Location: (Map It) Wean Park in downtown Youngstown, Ohio
• Phone: 330-941-2307
• Web: click here

The YSU Summer Festival of the Arts at Youngstown State University truly celebrates the visual and performing arts. Welcoming over 80 local, regional, and national artists, the event draws over 15,000 people to the park-like campus. In addition to the artists’ marketplace, dozens of music, theater, and dance performances take place, and local museums and churches host activities. An ethnic fair, multiple concerts, a 5K run, and children’s activities add to the excitement of this two-day event. Admission and parking are free to the Summer Festival of the Arts.

Admission to The Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival is approx.  $15/carload.

• When: July 17 & 18, 2026
• Location: (Map It) Smith Park at 500 Tytus Avenue in Middletown, OH
• Phone: 513-435-6361
• Web: click here

The Ohio Challenge Hot Air Balloon Festival in Middletown features a hot air balloon competition with over 40 hot air balloons, skydivers, a classic car show, food and craft vendors, and more! Come out to see special-shaped balloons, the nightly fireworks, or the beautiful balloon glows.

Lancaster Festival features more than 75 events, and over half are free.

• When: July 18 – 25, 2026
• Location: (Map It) Downtown Lancaster, Ohio
• Phone: 740-687-4808
• Web: click here

The Lancaster Festival provides 10 days of music, art, and family fun! This fantastic summer festival celebrates music and the arts, featuring live concerts in downtown Lancaster, an award-winning festival orchestra, nationally recognized top-name performers, daily activities for children, a legendary art walk, and non-stop energy throughout the city.

Children’s events include Festival Fair Day, Rising Park Day, and the Children’s Art Fair. Performing artists come from various genres and have regional talent and household names. Join the Tribute Night, Singer/Songwriter Night, or one of our big Saturday Night shows. Other activities include daily chamber music concerts, a 5K road race, performances at the local mall, and a two-show production by the Ohio University Lancaster Theatre.

Admission to Ironman 70.3 is free to watch (click the link below for entry info)

• When: July 19, 2026
• Location: (Map It) Sandusky, Ohio
• Web: click here

Ironman 70.3 has become a popular event for athletes and fans alike! Ironman 70.3, known as a Half Ironman, is a series of long-distance triathlon races organized by the World Triathlon Corporation. The “70.3” refers to the total distance in miles covered in the race: a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile double-loop course run.

Admission & parking to the Valley City Frog Jump Festival are free.

• When: July 19, 2026, from 11am – 5:30pm
• Where: (Map It) 1200 Maple St. in Liverpool Mill Stream Park, Downtown Valley City, Ohio
• Phone: 330-722-5502 or e-mail frogmaster@valleycity.org
• Web: click here

Valley City Frog Jump Festival in Valley City, Ohio:  For more than 50 years, Valley City, Ohio, has been jumping for joy when frogs take to the ring to test their leg strength in a peculiar festival celebrating their leaping abilities. An estimated three thousand people, plus or minus a thousand, gather annually to partake in fun. These frog-natics bring their amphibious competitors, friends, and relatives to enjoy the old-fashioned day. More than 700 frogs have been entered into the contest by toddlers, retirees, and everyone else. Trophies are awarded to the winners. Food, beverages, souvenirs, music, and games are available. Admission and parking are free (a fee is charged for jumping a frog).

Admission and parking to the Annie Oakley Festival in Greenville, Ohio is free.

• When: July 24 – 26, 2026 (Usually the last Fri – Sun in July)
• Location: (Map It) Darke County Fairgrounds (South end by the 4-H horse arena) in Greenville, Ohio
• Phone:   937-548-1018
• Web:  www.annieoakleyfestival.org and Facebook

The Annie Oakley Festival in Greenville, Ohio, celebrates Annie Oakley’s humble beginnings and worldwide fame. The festival includes a shooting contest for young women and recognizes a new Miss Annie Oakley, who reigns throughout the year. There will be a fast-draw contest, car show, old-time melodrama, bus tours of the historically rich county, a talent show, competitive family-fun games, and a fabulous western art show, featuring knife throwing, whip cracking, and a variety of entertainment. There will also be a petting zoo, live musical entertainment, a Buffalo Bill impersonator and historian, daily Annie’s story time for children, food, a flea market, and antique and craft vendors. Be sure to come out early for the parade in downtown Greenville on Saturday at 10am.

Admission to Canal Winchester Blues & Ribfest is free.

• When: July 24 & 25, 2026, Friday 5pm-11pm & Saturday 12-11pm
• Location: (Map It) 36 South High Street, Canal Winchester, Ohio (street closed to vehicles during event)
• Phone: 614-270-5053 or 614-738-4804
• Web: www.bluesandribfest.com

Canal Winchester Blues & Ribfest in Canal Winchester, Ohio:  Smokin’ blues, sizzlin’ hot ribs, and more! This summer street celebration features live blues music, world-class ribs, a variety of quality non-rib food options, locally crafted items/art, and a beer garden for blues and rib-loving fans 21 and over. There is no charge for admission to this popular event, so plan early and bring your friends and family to help you celebrate some of your favorite sights, sounds, and tastes of summer!

Admission to the Celina Lake Festival is free.

• When: July 24 – 26, 2026 (always the last Fri-Sun in July that is followed by a Monday, still in July)
• Location: (Map It) Main Street and Lake Shore Dr. in Celina, Ohio
• Phone:  419-586-2219 or 419-586-0993
• Web: https://celinalakefest.com/

The Celina Lake Festival is held on the Grand Lake St. Mary’s shores in downtown Celina. For more than 50 years, this three-day event has packed in family fun and even features cars that swim! The festival begins Friday night with a brilliant fireworks show, live entertainment, the Amphicar Swim-In, and a Cruise-In with over 250 cars. The weekend will include a parade, a car show, a boat Poker Run, a cardboard Duct Tape boat race, a kiddie fishing derby, and a kiddie and adult tractor pull. A volleyball tournament, a 5-k, a Women’s Walk for Wellness, and the pageant to win Miss Lake Festival are also held during this festival, all centered around the beautiful shores of Celina Lake.

Admission to Columbus Jazz & Rib Fest is free.

• When:  July 24 – 26, 2026
• Location: (Map It) Columbus Downtown Riverfront at 233 S Civic Center Dr. in Columbus, Ohio
• Phone: 614-645-7995 or 614-645-3300
• Web: www.hotribscooljazz.org/

Columbus Jazz & Rib Fest: This highly anticipated summertime tradition in downtown Columbus offers both jazz and rib connoisseurs the finest in music and barbecue. Located along the Scioto River, the festival offers three days of continuous jazz by renowned international and local musicians, while barbecue pitmasters serve sizzling ribs, chicken, and more. Savor the best ribs nationwide as 23 award-winning barbecue teams compete for “Best Ribs” bragging rights.

Admission to Frankfort Sunflower Festival is free.

• When: Usually the last Sat & Sun in July
• Where: (Map It) Frankfort, Ohio (Located on U.S. Rt. 35 between Chillicothe and Washington Court House, Ohio)
• Phone: 740-998-4060 or 800-413-4118 or 740-702-7677
• Web: click here

Frankfort Sunflower Festival (formerly the International Sunflower Fest) is in Frankfort, Ohio. It is held annually on Labor Day weekend. This event is for people of all ages. It includes concessions, a car show, antique tractors, a kiddy tractor pull, games, live music, a parade, an adult Tug of War contest with a purse, a sunflower contest (biggest, tallest, etc.), a photo contest, a corn hole tournament, a pie auction, and a craft tent. Join the community church service held on Sunday morning in the center of town.

Admission to Ohio Pirate Con requires tickets.

• When: July 24 – 26, 2026
• Location: (Map It) 901 Rawson Ave. at the Sandusky County Fairgrounds in Fremont, Ohio
• Phone: 800-255-8070
• Web: click here

Ohio Pirate Con offers a thrilling adult and family-friendly atmosphere of swashbuckling adventures along the scenic Sandusky River. The performances may include participants of all ages. There are thrilling fights, aerial displays, cannon blasts, and pyrotechnics.

Admission to the Canton Blues Festival is free

• When: July 25, 2026, from 2—11 pm
• Location: (Map It) 330 Court Ave. NW in Canton, Ohio
• Web: click here

The Canton Blues Festival is one of northeast Ohio’s most anticipated blues festivals, drawing music lovers to the heart of Canton, Ohio, for a full day of soulful, electrifying performances. Held annually each July at Canton Centennial Plaza, this free concert event showcases a strong mix of local legends, regional favorites, and out-of-town headliners—ideal for longtime blues fans and curious newcomers alike. This year, BBQ food truck vendors round out the experience.

Among 2026 blues festivals, this one stands out. The main stage runs from 2—9 pm with free concerts, including Sam Hooper Group, Change Over DJ, The Delta Hand, and headliner Shane Guerrette, an upstate New York artist whose retro-flavored blues and roots rock sound has been compared to Akron’s own The Black Keys. Guerrette draws from classic soul and roots rock to craft something that feels both timeless and fresh. His self-produced 2022 debut, Here’s Hoping, surpassed 7 million streams, and he has spent the last few years recording and touring relentlessly, opening for respected acts like The Wood Brothers, The Sheepdogs, and Neal Francis.

After the plaza wraps, the party continues through 11 pm with breakout shows by nine additional performers at venues throughout the downtown area. Whether visitors are discovering the blues festival scene for the first time or making this an annual tradition, the Canton Blues Festival delivers an authentic, community-rooted celebration worth the trip.

Admission to Zoar Antique & Artisan Show is a ticketed event.

• When: July 25 & 26, 2026 (Always the last Sat & Sun in July), from 10-5 and 10-4, respectively
• Location: (Map It) 198 Main St, Zoar, Ohio 44697
• Phone: 330-874-3011, Toll Free 1-800-262-6195
• Web: www.historiczoarvillage.com or www.ohiohistory.org/zoar

The Zoar Antique & Artisan Show at Historic Zoar Village has something for the whole family! A juried craft show, wagon rides, sheepdog demonstrations, historic demonstrations in historic buildings, and a spectacular antique show and sale with over 60 dealers. Games and crafts for children, along with an antique car show, are highlights of the weekend. Food and beverages are available throughout the village, and a brew tent featuring bands and entertainment will be on site. The Zoar Community Association operates the Zoar Village State Memorial with the Ohio Historical Society. The site features 12 beautifully restored buildings, including privately owned historic homes. The village features guided tours, shopping for antiques and American folk crafts, bed-and-breakfasts, and two full-service restaurants: The Zoar Firehouse Grille and the Canal Tavern of Zoar.

Ohio County Fairs in July:

Adams County Fair in West Union
http://www.adamscountyfairground.com/

Butler County Fair in Hamilton
http://www.butlercofair.com/

Carroll County Fair in Carrollton
https://www.carrollcountyfairohio.com/

Clark County Fair in Springfield
http://clarkcoag.com/

Clermont County Fair in Owensville
click here

Clinton County Fair in Wilmington
http://clintoncountyfair.org/

Crawford County Fair in Bucyrus
http://www.crawfordcofair.com/

Fayette County Fair in Washington Court House
http://fayettecofairoh.com/

Franklin County Fair in Hilliard
https://www.fcfair.org/

Harrison County Fair in Cadiz
Click here

Jackson County Fair in Wellston
Click here

Knox County Fair in Mount Vernon
http://www.knoxcountyfair.org/

Lake County Fair in Painesville
http://www.lakecountyfair.org/ 

Lawrence County Fair in Proctorville
www.lawrencecountyohiofair.com/

Logan County Fair in Bellefontaine
https://locofair.org/

Lucas County Fair in Maumee
https://lucascountyfair.com/

Madison County Fair in London
http://www.madisoncountyfairoh.com/

Ottawa County Fair in Oak Harbor
http://www.ottawacountyfair.org/

Perry County Fair in New Lexington
http://perrycountyfair.com/

Pike County Fair in Piketon
Click Here

Preble County Fair in Eaton
Click Here

Shelby County Fair in Sidney
Click Here

Summit County Fair in Tallmadge
https://www.summitfair.com/

Seneca County Fair in Tiffin
Click Here

Union County Fair in Marysville
https://www.ohiounioncountyfair.com/

Warren County Fair in Lebanon
http://www.warrencountyfair.org/

and don’t forget the
OHIO STATE FAIR
in Columbus
http://www.ohiostatefair.com/