Lake County officials laud successful 2024 Lake County Fair - The News- Herald
Another year, another successful summer soirée.
The Lake County Fair, which ran July 23-28, once again attracted scores, this year to the tune of 113,892 total, according to recently released numbers.
The figure represents a significant spike from last year which “only drew” 99,372 visitors.
While the six-day collaborative, community event, in its 169th year, didn’t boast overall record attendance in 2024, officials noted, it was the highest in recent years, surpassed only by the inaugural post-pandemic fair, “reflecting an eagerness to engage and celebrate together.”
The festivities kicked off with a visit from Ohio State University President Walter “Ted” Carter, who was welcomed to the grounds by Lisa Manning, 4-H and family consumer science educator, OSU Extension.
“We are so proud of this year’s 4-H youth,” said Commissioner John Plecnik. “They exemplify the ‘Head, Heart, Hands and Health pledge,’ and I am grateful to have once again been a small part of supporting this year’s 4-H Livestock Auction and Lake County Fair.”
According to officials, an opening-day highlight was the induction of two “esteemed volunteers” into the Lake County Fair Hall of Fame: Richard VanPelt of Leroy, who has served on fair board for 31 years, and Judi Sprague of Perry, who boasts over 40 consecutive years of volunteer service in the concessions office. The “tradition of excellence” continued as Leah Schuhart, the 2024 Ohio Fairs Queen from Muskingum County, served as grand marshal for the opening night parade, which featured nearly 200 entries.
Additionally, a record-breaking baked goods sale on opening night netted over $5,000 from auctioning award-winning entries.
Other fair events, including Moto-X racing, which featured over 200 participants, and the 4-H Livestock Auction, which achieved over $440,000 in sales, set new benchmarks of civic support, officials noted.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better turnout or more enthusiastic participation from our community,” said Commissioner John Hamercheck. “The spirit of camaraderie and support exhibited by everyone, from the exhibitors to the visitors, truly embodies what the Lake County Fair is all about. We are already excited for next year and the continued growth of this cherished event.”
The new “All-American Pig Races,” a branch of All-American Petting Zoo and Pony Rides, based in Ridgeland, South Carolina, also attracted crowds, as did the agriculture building’s brooder, which showcased a record number of chicks being hatched throughout the fair.
At-Large Fair Board Member Bob Dawson added that new security provisions helped keep the fair safe and without incident.
“We are thrilled with the success of this year’s fair,” said Commissioner Richard Regovich, “which continues to bring our community together for a week of fun, tradition and celebration. We look forward to building on this success in the future.”