Questions guests ask about Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds

Question 1

How do I ask about renting a space?

Accepted Answer

Fill out the Event Inquiry form on the Plan Your Event page.

Question 2

How are rentals priced?

Accepted Answer

Each building has a daily rate. Setup and removal days cost one-half of the daily rate.

Question 3

What does the Celeste Center cost?

Accepted Answer

The Celeste Center is $5,900 a day and has 60,000 sq. ft. of floor space.

Question 4

Is there a smaller space for a meeting or banquet?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Rhodes Center conference and meeting rooms are $200 each a day.

Question 5

When can the two new buildings be booked?

Accepted Answer

The Ohio Agriculture Center and the Ohio Showcase Building are available for booking beginning January 2027.

Question 6

Can I bring my own food?

Accepted Answer

Usually no. It needs special permission or a caterer’s fee, and delivery such as pizza or Uber Eats is prohibited.

Question 7

Who provides food and drink at events?

Accepted Answer

Schmidt’s Expo Inc. is the food and beverage provider for the Ohio Expo Center.

Question 8

Who serves alcohol?

Accepted Answer

Schmidt’s holds the liquor license for the facility. Alcohol is for guests 21+ with valid ID.

Question 9

What drinks does Schmidt’s sell?

Accepted Answer

Schmidt’s traditionally sells canned beer, wine by the glass and select liquor and mixed drinks. 21+ with valid ID.

Question 10

How many people does the Food Hall seat?

Accepted Answer

In the Ohio Showcase Building, the Food Hall is 4,868 sq. ft. and holds 187 in dining style.

Question 11

What is the largest banquet setup?

Accepted Answer

The Lausche Building is 52,000 sq. ft. and seats up to 4,500 diners.

Question 12

Can meeting rooms host Teams or Zoom calls?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Ohio Agriculture Center meeting rooms have ceiling microphone arrays for Teams or Zoom.

Question 13

What are the labor rates?

Accepted Answer

General labor is $33 an hour, and an electrician or plumber is $40.75 an hour.

Question 14

Can I suggest my own food truck or vendor?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Schmidt’s welcomes suggestions and can review a vendor’s safety steps and menus.

Question 15

How much is parking?

Accepted Answer

Parking is $10 for a one-time entry. The price may vary for special events.

Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds