A Guernsey County tradition for nearly two centuries, the Guernsey County Fair offers thrilling rides, live entertainment, livestock exhibitions and sales, pie contests and something for every age.
If you’re planning to visit the Guernsey County Fair in Old Washington, Ohio, here are a few things that will help you make the most of your day.
Know when and where
The 2026 Guernsey County Fair runs September 14–19, 2026, at the fairgrounds in Old Washington, just west of Cambridge. The fairgrounds are located at 335 Old National Road, Old Washington, Ohio.
Admission is a great value
Daily admission is $15 (children ages 3 and under are free). One of the biggest perks is that your daily ticket includes(No Rides on Monday):
- Parking
- Midway rides
- Grandstand entertainment
Many county fairs charge separately for rides or parking, so this is a nice bonus. If you plan to attend multiple days, season passes are also available.
Arrive early for the best experience
If you’re planning to:
- watch a grandstand event,
- enjoy the rides
- or visit the animal barns,
try arriving by late morning or early afternoon. The fair gets noticeably busier in the evening, especially before popular grandstand events.
Don’t miss the livestock barns
One of the highlights of any county fair is seeing the youth exhibitors. You’ll find:
- Dairy and beef cattle
- Horses
- Sheep
- Goats
- Swine
- Poultry
- Rabbits
Many exhibitors are members of 4-H or FFA, and they’re often happy to talk about their animals.
Check out Agriculture Hall
Beyond the rides, Agriculture Hall showcases:
- Homemade baked goods
- Quilts and sewing
- Photography
- Artwork
- Canning and preserves
- Flowers and garden produce
It’s a great place to appreciate local talent and craftsmanship.
Come hungry
Expect classic fair favorites like:
- Fresh-cut fries
- Lemon shake-ups
- Funnel cakes
- Corn dogs
- Barbecue
- Ice cream
- Local food vendors
Many visitors make eating their way through the fair part of the tradition!
Grandstand entertainment
Each evening typically features popular events such as:
- Monday, September 14 – Harness Racing
- Tuesday, September 15 – Autocross
- Wednesday, September 16 – Afternoon Harness Racing and Evening Wrecker Race
- Thursday, September 17 – School Bus & Combine Demolition Derby
- Friday, September 18 – Ostpa Truck & Tractor Pulls
- Saturday, September 19 – Old Skool Demolition Derby
For a complete schedule of 2026 Guernsey County Fair events, entertainment, and livestock showings, click here.
If you’re staying in the Cambridge area
The fairgrounds are only about a 10-minute drive from downtown Cambridge, making it easy to combine your visit with attractions like:
- National Museum of Cambridge Glass
- Mosser Glass Factory & Gift Shop
- National Road S Bridge
- Country Bits
- Black Cat Vintage
- Guernsey County History Museum
For a complete list of things to see and do in Cambridge/Guernsey County, Ohio, click here.