As the seventh most populous state in the United States, Ohio is home to 11.5 million people. With a combination of large, vibrant cities and smaller, rural communities, Ohio has a wide diversity of cultural experiences to offer.

From long-established Amish communities to the rapidly growing state capital, Ohio is made up of many different dynamic communities. As a result, the state is home to a unique combination of traditional and modern festivities.

Can’t-Miss Annual Events in Ohio

From European festivals brought over in the 18th and 19th centuries to exhibitions of art and music, Ohio has plenty of special events and festivals happening every year. Ohio has events that everyone will enjoy. Whether you are interested in exploring a new culture or celebrating the seasons, there is something here for you.

Here are 9 of the best annual events held throughout Ohio that highlight what this state has to offer:

1. Ohioana Book Festival

Since 2007, this literary celebration has been bringing book lovers together at the main branch of the Columbus Metropolitan Library every April. With over 100 Ohio-based or -raised writers in attendance, the festival allows readers to connect with idols, mentors, and fellow fans alike.

2. Appalachian Festival

In Ohio, Mother’s Day weekend is associated with the popular Appalachian Festival. Held on Coney Island, this event features dancing, music, storytelling, crafts, and living history demonstrations to teach visitors about Appalachian culture through first-hand experience. Ticket funds go to the Appalachian Community Development Association, which promotes awareness of Appalachian culture.

3. A World A’Fair

A World A’Fair is Ohio’s largest international festival. The fair takes place at the Dayton Convention Centre every May. Explore cultures from around the world with booths offering food, beverages, and merchandise, while live cultural performances are displayed on two live stages.

4. ColossalCon

Kick off summer vacation with a visit to ColossalCon. The anime and gaming convention is held at the beginning of June every year in Sandusky, Ohio (near Cleveland). Fans of Japanese culture and animation will enjoy the lineup of voice actors and special guests, as well as the costume contests and Artists’ Alley.

5. Cincinnati Music Festival

This two-day music festival takes place on the riverfront in Cincinnati each July, showcasing some of the biggest names in jazz, soul, R&B, and hip-hop. Beginning as a jazz concert in 1962, Cincinnati Music Festival now pulls in tens of thousands of people from across the country every year.

6. Ohio State Fair

The Ohio State Fair is one of the country’s largest state fairs. The 12-day exhibition is fun for the whole family. Make the most of summer with animal shows, concerts, art galleries, rides and games, food, market vendors, sporting events, and seasonal activities. Pay for rides admissions or enjoy the free games and exhibits.

7. Champaign County Hot Air Balloon Festival

Take in the beautiful sight as a dozen colorful balloons and launched and carried away by the wind before taking part in all of the festival activities. A collaboration between three local aviation museums, this festival includes eating contests, food vendors, and face painting.

8. Fall Farm Fest

Set against the backdrop of beautiful fall colors in the Miami County Park District, Fall Farm Fest is the perfect way to celebrate the harvest season. This two-day festival in October offers all of the best parts of autumn in Ohio: a corn maze, hayrides, live music, farm animals, seasonal foods, a pumpkin patch, and more.

9. Dayton Holiday Festival

The Dayton Holiday Festival was started so that children of all economic backgrounds could celebrate the holiday. To this day, the festival provides free attractions for the community every November. The Grande Illumination and Dayton Children’s Parade kick off the festivities every Thanksgiving. Throughout December, you can enjoy wagon rides, a street fair, and the holiday village. You can even have pizza with Santa!

Explore Your Community at Some of Ohio’s Annual Events

Food. Fairs. Fun. Ohio festivals have so much to offer.

As a resident of Ohio, these unique experiences are yours to enjoy. You do not have to go far from home to do something new and exciting.

Whether you are a new resident or you have been around a few years, Oberer Homes invites you to take part in all of the great community activities that this state has to offer. At Oberer Homes, we do more than build houses – we build community.

We want to make sure that you are getting the most from your home and community. Check out our developed communities to learn more.