By Andi Anderson
The Ohio State Fair introduced an exciting new event in 2026 with the launch of the Great Ohio Fair Food Showdown. The competition was created to recognize the dedication of fair food vendors while celebrating both innovative menu creations and long-standing fair favorites.
The first annual contest highlighted the important role concessionaires play in making the Ohio State Fair a memorable experience for visitors each year. The event provided vendors with an opportunity to showcase unique food items and compete for top honors in several categories.
A private judging event was held on July 28, 2026, outside the Machinery Social Hall. The judging panel consisted of five Ohioans who are influential leaders from both the food and beverage industry and other sectors.
During the competition, each food item was presented to the judges at the same time. A detailed description of every entry was read aloud, and judges used scorecards to evaluate the items.
Following the judging process, winners were announced on July 29, the opening day of the fair. Winning vendors received ribbons that will remain on display throughout the fair, helping visitors identify award-winning food selections.
The first-place winners in the inaugural competition were:
- Best Sweet Item: Sweet Corn Mini Cheesecake - Cheesecake Girl
- Best Savory Item: Freedom Fries - Fork'et Me Not
- Best Beverage: Matcha Lemonade - GH Concessions
- Best Classic Item: All American Corn Dog Basket - Tracey's Concessions
In addition to the judged competition, fair organizers also launched a People’s Choice Contest, allowing fairgoers to participate directly in selecting their favorite food item. Every entry featured in the Great Ohio Fair Food Showdown is listed in the Ohio State Fair App, where visitors can cast their votes.
Unlike the professional judging event, the People’s Choice Contest does not separate entries into categories. Instead, all food and beverage items compete together for the title of Best Overall Fair Food Item, also known as "Fairest of Them All." The item receiving the highest number of votes from fairgoers will earn the People’s Choice award.
Voting remains open throughout the fair and closes on August 9. The contest gives visitors a chance to support their favorite vendors and celebrate the foods that make the fair unique.
Beyond the food competition, the Ohio State Fair continues to offer entertainment, educational activities, exhibits, and one of the nation’s largest junior livestock shows. The 2026 Ohio State Fair runs from July 29, 2026, through August 9, 2026, providing visitors with a wide range of attractions, activities, and award-winning food experiences.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Ohio, Rural Lifestyle