Commissioners Celebrate Successful 2026 Lake County Fair
PAINESVILLE, Ohio, August 6, 2026 – The 171st Lake County Fair, held July 28–August 2, welcomed 106,012 attendees. While not a record, this year’s turnout continues the Fair’s strong post‑COVID trend of six‑figure attendance and reflects the community’s ongoing enthusiasm for Lake County’s signature summertime tradition.
Tuesday’s opening harness racing delivered excitement right from the start, featuring 98 horses—one of the largest fields in many years—running a full card of 17 races.
The opening night bake sale achieved an all‑time Fair record, netting $8,491. This event has grown significantly in recent years and remains one of the Fair’s most beloved traditions.
Saturday’s 4‑H Livestock Auction set a historic milestone. The sale totaled $606,000 across more than 340 lots—an all‑time record and a substantial increase from the 2025 total of $430,000. The Lake County Commissioners again demonstrated tremendous support through their purchases. The three commissioners were the winning bids on the following grand and reserve champions: Grand Champion Chickens, Grand Champion Ducks, Grand and Reserve Champion Turkeys, Grand Champion Carcass Goat, Grand Champion Hog, Grand Champion Beef, Grand Champion Project Beef.
“The Lake County Fair continues to show why it remains one of our community’s most cherished traditions,” said Commission President Morris W. Beverage III. “Over the past five years, I have grown to love to support the kids and the 4H auction. I’ve witnessed countless stories of dedication and leadership from our local youth. This year, one standout moment involved exhibitor Ariana Hansen, who kept in close contact about her project from as early as March 1. Her professionalism, resilience, and collaboration earned her the Grand Champion Market Hog title, and I was honored to be the winning bidder for her project. Her achievement reflects the strength, character, and commitment that define Lake County’s 4‑H community. Supporting our 4‑H youth through the livestock auction is one of the most rewarding parts of Fair Week.”
“As always, I am honored to support our incredible 4-H kids,” said Commissioner John T. Plecnik. “As Voice of the Fair, it is truly special to cheer on our exhibitors and celebrate their accomplishments. In particular, winning the Grand Champion Chickens raised by Kiera DiFranco was a privilege, and I continue to be amazed by the talent and commitment shown by our youth. I was also excited to help volunteers distribute the Frances Jennings Casement bobbleheads as part of Lake County’s America 250 celebration. Without a doubt, the fair lives up to its name and titles. This truly is the great, the grand, the fantastic Lake County Fair!”
Commissioner Morgan R. McIntosh added, “The Fair brings together families, neighbors, and friends in a celebration of everything that makes Lake County strong. I am proud to support our 4‑H exhibitors and thrilled to see record participation across so many events this year.”
Another record was set by the motocross racing competition, where 236 riders participated. Their entries, sanctioning, and related fees generated $22,000, making this the largest motocross event in Fair history.
Fair Queen River Livengood of Willowick excelled in her role, overseeing numerous activities throughout the week. She was supported by her court: first runner‑up Carly Schwartz and second runner‑up Addysen Olsen, each contributing to the Fair’s welcoming atmosphere and smooth operations.
Strong participation across all activities and contests reflected the continued vitality and good health of the Fair. Excellent weather brought steady crowds across all six days, helping make the 2026 Fair one of the most successful in recent years.
The Lake County Fair Board extends its deepest gratitude to the community, volunteers, exhibitors, sponsors, and supporters whose dedication made this year’s Fair exceptional. Planning is already underway for the 172nd Lake County Fair in 2027.
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