Harvest Home Fair 2024 in Cincinnati, OH

Harvest Home Fair is an annual four-day early-September celebration, labeled "the biggest little fair in Ohio." It takes place in Harvest Home Park in Cheviot, 9 miles (15 km) northwest of Downtown Cincinnati, and draws in up to 18,000 visitors. The program highlights include the Harvest Home Parade, a Cornhole Tournament, a Flower Show, an Art Show, commercial and artisan vendors, live music, livestock exhibits, games, rides, and other attractions.

Harvest Home Parade (September 5, 2024)

On the first day of the fair, at 6 pm, come to witness the kick-off annual parade with a special theme, which changes every year. This year, Cheviot decided to honor local samaritans by choosing a "Community Heroes" theme, which is also the subject of the whole fair. More than 50 floats, thousands of residents, and small businesses participate in the procession, proudly demonstrating their yearly achievements.

Parade Route

The parade departs from the crossroads of Frances and Harrison Avenues, carries on south along Harrison Avenue, then turns north to North Bend and stops at its final destination, Harvest Home Park. The event lasts approximately two hours.

Carnival Rides

There's no shortage of colorful and vibrant midway rides at the Harvest Home Fair, including rides for families, thrilling rides, and exciting games. For those looking to experience an adrenaline rush, consider trying out Rock-O-Plane or Roll-O-Plane attractions. Children might enjoy the traditional Saucer Ride, Lil Ferris Wheel, or Lil Zoomer. For some friendly competition, the whole family can try their hand at Balloon Darts, Duck Pond, or Gold Fish carnival games.

Carnival Tickets & Wristband

To experience all the rides, you can purchase a wristband, which costs $25. However, it can be used only during select hours: from 6 pm to 10 pm on Thursday, from 5 pm to 11 pm on Friday, and from noon until 6 pm on Saturday and Sunday. A single-ride ticket costs $1.50, while a ticket strip with 20 tickets costs $25.

Other Entertainment

Local artists and florists annually present their works at the fair's Art Show and Flower Show. For spectators, it's a great chance to gain inspiration and learn about the Cheviot and Cincinnati art scene. The Cornhole Tournament on September 7th is another beloved attraction of the fair, drawing in pros and amateurs alike. The cash prize of $500 is up for grabs, making this friendly competition a treat to watch.

Wandering around the fairgrounds is definitely one of the things festivalgoers should put on their to-do list for the fair. The venue is filled to the brim with vendors, offering hand-made souvenirs, delicious meals, and refreshing beverages. The livestock and agricultural exhibitions are also part of the Harvest Home Fair program. It's a great chance to interact with local farmers and discover the wonders of Queen City's horticulture.

Music Lineup

Each year, the fair promises an exciting selection of music, ranging from country to rock. Local artists and bands from all over Cincinnati and beyond will be sharing their talent and passion with the crowd. This year's lineup features a blues rock duo Ginna & Johnny, Ohio-based artist Carey Hunley, energetic rock band Dangerous Jim & The Slims, songwriter Kyla Mainous, and Westside Community Band. Dave Lewis, Jon Armstrong, and Bronson Arroyo Band will also perform at the fair.

Schedule & Hours

The fair kicks off on Thursday with a Harvest Home Parade at 6 pm and stays open until 10 pm. The hours of operation differ depending on the day—the gates are open from 5 to 11 pm on Friday, noon to 11 pm on Saturday, and noon to 8 pm on Sunday.

Tickets & Admission

On Thursday, the festival-goers can benefit from free admission. On other days of the festival, admission is $5, while first responders, veterans, and children aged twelve and under can enter for free.

History of the Fair

The roots of the celebration stem from 1806, when a local farmer initiated hearty harvest festivities. But the first full-scale Harvest Home Fair was held in 1860. The Cheviot-Westwood Kiwanis Club became the owner of the event in 1939 and presented the 79th edition. Lastly, since 2010, the Harvest Home Fair Association has run the festival.