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We hear the butter cow mooin' and that can only mean one thing — it's officially Ohio State Fair Week.

Driving the news: The 167th annual smorgasbord of rides, animals, music and deep-fried goodness kicks off Wednesday through Aug. 7.

Why it matters: The fair draws hundreds of thousands of visitors to Central Ohio. This year marks its grand return after being canceled in 2020 and held without the public last year.

What's new: The mystery butter sculpture is unveiled tomorrow. Previous creations include a bald eagle, Darth Vader and, most recently, an astronaut crew to commemorate the Apollo moon landing's 50th anniversary.

What's back: Country music legend Willie Nelson returns for his 10th fair performance. Check out the full concert schedule.

🍭 150: Food locations that offer 20 different items served on a stick.

🐖 6,857: Classes of competitions, from livestock to gardening and baking.

If you go: 10am-9pm Monday-Friday, 9am-9pm Saturday-Sunday. (Gates close 6pm Aug. 7.)

Pro tip: On "Three-Dollar Thursdays" every food vendor sells specialty items for $3 apiece.

📬 We want to hear from you: Are you headed to the fair this week? What are some of your favorite activities or memories? Email [email protected] .

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