Accessible Fair Fun

Two weeks ago, Peggy (my favorite sister) and I attended the Montgomery County Fair! Going together is a nostalgic experience for us - we’ve been attending since we were kids. Being at the fairgrounds takes us back to when we were children, remembering very happy days. One thing I really love about the fair is all the food on a stick. Give me a corn dog with light mustard and get out of my way! This may sound simple to you, but any food I can eat independently makes me feel empowered.

Like me, I’m sure many people with disabilities would enjoy going to the fair, but they may be unsure if the accessibility features are up to par. The 2026 Ohio State Fair recently announced that there will be many accessibility features at this year’s fair. Today, I’ll share some of the ways they are going above and beyond to make their event more accessible for everyone.

This year will include a wheelchair charging station, which I really appreciate. I depend on my motorized scooter to get around, so this is an important resource to have.

  • An interactive map of the fairgrounds can be downloaded to your phone to help you navigate the event. You can track a person’s location and even contact a real fairgrounds team member to help guide you to your desired event or area.
  • ALS interpreters will be on site to communicate with the deaf and hearing impaired.
  • This Friday, July 31st the fair is offering hours catered to make one’s fair experience more enjoyable for people with sensory disabilities, such as autism. Find out all about it here.

o On this day, sounds and lights will be lower to help with overstimulation. Also, there will be activities geared towards a person with disabilities for their enjoyment, along with many more accessibility features.

o There is also a calm section where a person can simply wind down.

While the Ohio State Fair’s accessibility features are geared to help people with disabilities, they can really be helpful to anyone. If we embrace the mindset that accessibility is universal, the world will be a better place. Well done, Ohio, for making great strides. I call it a win! Now, I wonder what kind of food on a stick I can find at the Ohio State Fair? Yum!