Cincinnati has plenty of fairs and festivals, but there are a handful that are just extra special. One particular fair has been around since the 1860s and is still celebrated in a big way today. Harvest Home Fair in Cheviot is known as "The Biggest Little Fair In Ohio," and this classic parade and fair are can't-miss events and timeless Cincinnati traditions. After a rough time last year thanks to the weather, the fair needs our support this year and there's no better time to start a new family tradition than at the Harvest Home Fair.
The Harvest Home Parade is celebrating more than 60 years this year, and the fair itself dates back even further.
The above photo shows the parade in 1959. The Fair has roots back to the 1860s, when a farmer held a fair to celebrate the harvest of his land in Green Township. In 1939, the Kiwanis Club of Cheviot took over and has been hosting this epic celebration ever since.
The parade is a highlight of the weekend and kicks off the start of the fair.
This year, the parade takes place on Thursday, September 5th at 6pm. Chairs and blankets will line the parade route long before that start time, so if you're planning to attend, get there early!
The parade makes its way through Cheviot and includes marching bands, various clubs, groups, and just about any and everything you can imagine.
It's a long parade and one of the best in the city. It's a wonderful starting point for a fun weekend of gathering, celebrating, and entertaining.
The fair takes place at Harvest Home Park, right in the heart of Cheviot.
You'll find your typical carnival rides and games, but there is so much more to the fair. 4-H Exhibits, Art Shows, homemade meals, concerts, and contests will keep every fair-goer entertained, no matter what their interests.
One of the most unique aspects of the fair - especially given its somewhat urban location - is the Horse Show.
The baseball fields are turned into an arena and you can grab a seat to watch some barrel racing, a chin and apple contest, and a crowd favorite - the costume class.
Harvest Home Fair and Parade is a west side tradition that really should be shared with the entire city.
It's perfectly called the "Biggest Little Fair," as the atmosphere is festive and exciting, with a small town vibe. If it's not already on your calendar, mark down September 5th - 8th, and enjoy your time at the fair!
With terrible weather last year, this historic event needs our support this year! Make plans on spending what looks to be a beautiful weekend in Cincinnati at the Harvest Home Fair and let's hope that the Harvest Home Fair and Parade continues to entertain for generations to come. What are your memories of this legendary west side get together? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
For more information on the Harvest Home Fair, visit its website here. The parade kicks off the fair at 6 p.m. on Thursday, September 5th. The fair then runs that evening until 10 p.m., Friday the 6th 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday the 7th from Noon to 11 p.m., and Sunday the 8th from Noon to 7 p.m.
Address: 3961 North Bend Road, Cincinnati, OH 45211
And for more unique festivals throughout Ohio, check out our previous article here.
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