Fair opens to near-record temperatures

FINDLAY — The 2024 Hancock County Fair will open to near-record-breaking high temperatures today. A heat advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service, Cleveland, for Hancock County, along with the following counties in Ohio: Ashland, Crawford, Erie, Huron, Knox, Lorain, Lucas, Marion, Morrow, Ottawa, Richland, Sandusky, Seneca, Wood and Wyandot. Today's high temperature is expected to reach 96 degrees in Findlay, with heat index values as high as 101 degrees. The advisory is in effect from noon until 8 p.m. today. The hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat-related illnesses. Those venturing outside are advised to drink plenty of fluids and wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening, and to act on symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Opening ceremonies for the fair were held at 7 p.m. Monday at the Old Mill Stream Fairgrounds. The first full day of activities is today. This year's theme is "Sew it, Grow it, Show it at the Hancock County Fair." Gates open at 7:30 a.m. According to the weather service, warm and humid conditions overnight, with lows in the 70s, will make it harder for people to recover from the impact of heat during the day, particularly for those without air conditioning. Heat index values may be near or above 100 degrees again on Wednesday. Traditionally held in late August, the Hancock County Fair has weathered other heat waves. In 2018, a run of temperatures in the 90s for almost every day of fair week was enough to dampen attendance. Overall, attendance for the fair was estimated at 102,500 that year, compared to a five-year average of 106,800. Temperatures on Labor Day are expected to be much cooler, with sunny skies and a daytime high of 76 degrees. Admission tickets for the fair are being sold primarily online. Daily single admission is $10, which admits an adult and dependent members of their family ages 9 and younger. Admission is $5 for seniors age 65 and older, and youth ages 10-17. Children, age 9 and younger, will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Prices include parking. Gates accepting cash for any fair ticket include the walk-in gate off East Sandusky Street, the McCleary Gate off Fishlock Avenue, and the South Grandstand gate. Presale adult season tickets are $30 plus and are now available online only. Youth season tickets for ages 10-17 are available online through 8 p.m. Monday. Online specials are also available, including "In by 3 p.m. is Free" today and "$5 before 5 p.m." on Friday.