Carroll County Fair board planning new rides, rule changes for 2026 event

The Carroll County Agricultural Society is considering new ideas to improve the 2026 Carroll County Fair, which will run July 21–26.

During the July meeting, Treasurer Melissa Schaar reported the Pulling for a Cause fundraising event donated a little more than $94,000 to Akron Children’s Hospital. The board also approved hiring a second sled from Spillman’s at a cost of $1,700 plus $100 for the pulls.

Under new business, it was announced that Lisko will bring additional rides to the 2026 fair. The board also approved a motion to opt out of certain 4-H rules from the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

It was restated that only fair board members may use golf carts on the grounds during the day, and that bikes of any kind are not permitted during the fair. A price of $5 was approved for pits and track seating.

Board members also aired several concerns and suggestions:

— Hiring one person during and after the fair week to handle garbage collection.

— Eliminating harness racing, noting the Sunday gate price is the same as other days despite there being no animals or exhibits, and that weekend ride times are too late.

— Adding new classes for open shows, such as silk flowers and sourdough, advertising open and domestic classes more effectively, and selling south gate passes.