festival fun

A little over a week ago we attended our local county fair. I don’t know if it was the perfect weather or the fact that our girls could participate more but finally, after many many years, that feeling of why the fair is so great was back. Shan and I have such fond memories of those late summer days spent at the fairgrounds. We went home with smiles on our hearts that evening. Not only did the girls experience what we had always hoped they would but our men had a great time as well.

With all the fair fun out of the way we are now looking forward to our favorite season of festivals. Locally we have the Hot Air Festival this weekend (September 6th-8th, 2013) and the Apple Festival coming up (October 18th-19th, 2013). And luckily our fabulous state offers up some of the best celebrations throughout the fall. A few of our favorites:

Johnny Appleseed Festival Fort Wayne, IN (September 21st-22nd, 2013) – ok this is not in Ohio but it is very close to where we live so it sort of counts. If the smell of all things apple is not enough to lure you in the impressive pioneer vendors will. It’s a cherished event in the Fort Wayne community, their pride shines through.
Columbus Oktoberfest Columbus, OH (September 27th-29, 2013) – it’s hard to beat a great Oktoberfest. Attend one during football season in the heart of Buckeye country – well, that’s just perfection.
Apple Butterfest Grand Rapids, OH (October 13, 2013 | 10AM to 5PM) – a one day celebration my family has enjoyed for the past 6 years. Nestled in a lovely quaint downtown with many period vendors and of course yummy apple butter. This year Stephanie Dawn, Flour Loves Sugar and the Messmakerbaker will be there!
Sauerkraut Festival Waynesville, OH (October 12th-13th, 2013) – even if sauerkraut is not your thing this is a not to be missed event. What started off as a small festival now houses more then 450 artisans from more than 28 states.
Circleville Pumpkin Show Circleville, OH (October 16th-19th, 2013) – a famous event that attracts 400,000 visitors and then some. The streets are lined with over 100,000 pounds of pumpkins, gourds and squash. A spectacular event for the entire family.