Eclipse - Hardin County Fair

On Monday, April 8, 2024, people within a 124-mile-wide band in the state of Ohio will experience a total solar eclipse.

Hardin County is located directly in the line of totality and will have one of the longest viewing experiences in the state.

A total solar eclipse is a rare and spectacular event. On average, one happens somewhere on the Earth only once every 1.5 years. Only 21 total solar eclipses have crossed the lower 48 states in the entire existence of the United States.

The last total solar eclipse visible in Ohio was in 1806. The next total solar eclipse in Ohio will be in the year 2444.

Designated Viewing Space

The Hardin County Commissioners Office has requested that the grounds be utilized as a public viewing location. Anyone and everyone will be invited to the fairgrounds to view this spectacular occurrence of nature!

Camping

Camped at the fair before? Camping for the eclipse does not have any bearing on your fair campsite. Your campsite will remain intact for the Hardin County Fair. All bookings must be made through the online form or by calling our office at 419-675-2396.

Vendors

Barb’s French Fries, Barb’s Sugar-Coated Waffles, and Miss Tina’s Food trailers will be the featured vendors. Community partner Invenergy will sponsor free food – while vouchers last – from 11 am to 3 pm. Meal tickets will be obtained from the gazebo starting at that time.

Food Voucher Menu | 11-3 Monday, April 8th

Barb’s French Fries
French Fries
Corn Dog

Barb’s Sugar-Coated Waffles
3 Waffles
Mini Funnel Cake

Grammy Tina’s
Hamburger
Sloppy Joe
Cheddar Smoked Sausage
Hot Dog

The community is encouraged to support these Hardin County small businesses and enjoy their favorite fair goods leading up to the eclipse with regular sales starting on Friday, April 5, 2024, from 4-7 pm and remaining open Saturday, April 6th from 11 am – 7 pm, and Sunday, April 7th, from noon – 7 pm in addition to the Monday timeframe.

Regular Service Menu

Barb’s French Fries
Deep Fried Jumbo Breaded Tenderloin Sandwich
Corn Dog
French Fries
Chili-Cheese Fries

Barb’s Sugar-Coated Waffles
Sugar Waffles
Funnel Cakes

Grammy Tina’s
Sirloin Burger
Sirloin Cheeseburger
Smoked Sausage w/ Cheese
Sloppy Joe
Shredded Chicken
Hot Dog
Sloppy Dog
Chips
Ice Cream
Pop, Water, Coffee

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! You must book your campsite online or by calling 419-675-2396. Camping is $25/night and is due at the front office upon checking in.

No. All Hardin County-owned property is smoke-free. Please refrain from smoking during your time on the fairgrounds.

No. There will not be any rides on the fairgrounds during the April eclipse. Guests are invited to ride rides and play games during the Hardin County Fair in September!

If visiting for the day

Please follow the signs! A more concrete plan will be developed once the parking lot conditions and weather forecasts are evaluated closer to the event.

If camping

Although it may seem like a tight fit, you can park two vehicles on your campsite. Please park your vehicles on your campsite if you are camping.

Always call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

Only the specified vendors may come.

Yes! Our generous partner Invenergy will be on-site handing out eclipse glasses and picnic blankets on April 8th.

We know everyone is excited, and we are too. Please plan on arriving after sunrise, and please plan to leave by sunset on April 8th. Campers are exempt from this rule.

More Eclipse Information

The 2024 eclipse is an incredible opportunity for Hardin County, and there are several hardworking individuals across the county. The Hardin County Chamber and Business Alliance serves as the hub for all eclipse information.

Hardin County Eclipse Info