Ohio State Fair Poster Contest

When the poster contest was originally formed in 2024, the use of AI was permitted if explained as a part of the application process. However, we recognize that the use of AI has changed greatly over the last few years in ways we didn’t anticipate, and will be reevaluating the rules and processes for 2027, which will include prohibiting the use of AI. We are committed to celebrating Ohio artists, with a number of other competitions that don’t permit AI, including the fine arts exhibition, creative arts competitions, mural contest, and plein air painting.

We greatly appreciate the feedback from fairgoers so that we can ensure our contests can best celebrate Ohio artists next year and for years to come.

2026 Poster Contest

Contestants in the poster competition create unique designs that embody many of the great things that fairgoers love about the Ohio State Fair. This year in particular, we asked artists to incorporate a patriotic theme in their designs to celebrate America's 250th anniversary.

Among the 38 total entries, the top five posters will be on display in the Creative Arts Exhibits in Kasich Hall during the 2026 Ohio State Fair. The winners are as follows:

First Place — Christin Billips, Westerville
Second Place — Gene Strickland, Columbus
Third Place — Lisa Oliver, Reynoldsburg
Fourth Place — Lindsay Boyd, Lewis Center
Fifth Place — Nikki Smetters, Hilliard

Artwork from all five finalists can be viewed below.

Entries for the 2027 Ohio State Fair Poster Competition will open in January 2027.

Congratulations to the 2026 Poster Contest Top Five Place Winners

First Place — Christin Billips, Westerville
Second Place — Gene Strickland, Columbus
Third Place — Lisa Oliver, Reynoldsburg
Fourth Place — Lindsay Boyd, Lewis Center
Fifth Place — Nikki Smetters, Hilliard

Click on the images to the right to see all five works of art.

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Guidelines and Selection Criteria:

Both professional and amateur artists are permitted to enter.
Must be a resident of Ohio.
Must be 18 years old.
One entry per person.
Artwork must be family friendly.
In effort to help celebrate America's 250th anniversary, it is recommended that artwork include a patriotic theme, whether that is using colors of the American flag or celebrating Ohio's heritage and America 250 in some way.
Artwork must be related to the Ohio State Fair.
The Fair dates (July 29 – Aug. 9, 2026) and words Ohio State Fair must be included.
- For reference purposes, or for those who choose to include this information, 2026 will be the 171st Ohio State Fair.
The artist must disclose the medium of the poster.
Size guidelines 24 inches x 36 inches/2:3 aspect ratio. Portrait orientation required.
Must be able to be reproduced and must be scalable to standard poster or postcard size.
All entries must be submitted electronically. Submissions must be high-quality digital photographs or images of your poster. .JPGs and .PDFs are acceptable.

Awards

Top 5 entries will be recognized.
Grand Champion will receive:
- $1,000
- Ribbon
- Social media recognition
- Coordinated opportunities with local media
- Daily access to the Ohio State Fair and tickets for family

Entrant Acknowledgment

Entrants must agree to follow the guidelines and rules set forth by the Ohio Expositions Commission. If I am a contest winner, I recognize that I must submit my original piece of art to be displayed at the Ohio State Fair. I recognize that the Ohio State Fair retains all rights to the artwork.

Terms and Conditions for Grand Champion

Upon award, the chosen artist will be required to execute an agreement with the Ohio Expositions Commission setting forth the terms and conditions. The artist will retain copyright, but full ownership of the finished selection will be transferred to the Ohio Expositions Commission. The Ohio Expositions Commission retains the right to reproduce the original artwork for sale in various forms including, but not limited to, postcards and other merchandise. The artwork can also be used as marketing and promotional material for the Ohio State Fair.