By Andi Anderson
The Ohio State Fair has announced details for its 2026 Poster Contest, inviting artists across the state to help celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
The contest encourages creative designs that reflect patriotism while highlighting the rich history of Ohio and its connection to American heritage.
Organizers recommend that entries include a patriotic theme. Artists may use red white and blue color palettes or visually represent Ohio’s history alongside national traditions.
All submitted artwork must relate directly to the Ohio State Fair and reflect family friendly values.
The contest is open only to Ohio residents who are 18 years of age or older. Employees of the Ohio State Fair or the Ohio Expositions Commission are not eligible to participate. Both professional and amateur artists are welcome to enter, but only one entry is permitted per person.
Important contest dates have been announced. The entry form will open on December 10 2025 and close on January 20 2026. The top five winners will be announced in April 2026. All entries must be submitted electronically using high quality digital images in JPG or PDF format.
Artwork must meet specific design guidelines. Posters must be created in portrait orientation and follow a 24 inch by 36 inch size with a 2:3 aspect ratio.
The words Ohio State Fair and the official fair dates July 29 through Aug. 9 2026 must appear on the design. Artists may also choose to note that 2026 marks the 171st Ohio State Fair. The medium used to create the artwork must be disclosed.
Entries must be scalable for use as posters postcards and other promotional materials. Artists submitting entries must agree to follow all rules set by the Ohio Expositions Commission and acknowledge that winning artwork must be displayed at the Ohio State Fair.
The top five entries will receive recognition. The Grand Champion winner will earn a one thousand dollar cash prize a ribbon social media recognition coordinated local media opportunities and daily fair access with family tickets.
The Ohio Expositions Commission will retain full ownership of the selected artwork while the artist keeps copyright. The artwork may be reproduced and used for merchandise marketing and promotional purposes, helping represent the Ohio State Fair throughout the year.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-brzozowska
Categories: Ohio, Rural Lifestyle