If you’ve lived in Ohio long enough, you’re likely familiar with some of the state’s official symbols and designations: the state slogan, nickname, insect, and more. But you may not have realized that the Buckeye State has an officially designated drink, and it’s tomato juice. This official state beverage was determined in 1965 by the Ohio General Assembly, and it hasn’t been changed since. Here’s more behind this unique selection of tomato juice as the official state drink of Ohio.
In the 1800s, a man by the name of A.W. Livingston made Ohio history by developing a larger and sweeter version of the tomato.
In fact, every summer, the town of Reynoldsburg hosts the Tomato Festival to honor this unique legacy. The festival is a celebration of food, farming, and community, and it's a delightful local tradition.
In 1956, nearly 100 years after Livingston had commercialized his tomatoes, the Ohio General Assembly voted to make tomato juice the state's official beverage.
There's no denying the importance tomatoes have played in Ohio's economy, and the northwest quadrant of the state is where you'll find the heaviest concentration of tomato farming.
So whether you plan on taking part in the festival or simply raising a glass of fresh tomato juice to Ohio's history, you won't soon forget this quirky fact about Ohio.
Did you know that Ohio had an official state drink? Could you have guessed that it was tomato juice? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! If you’re not a huge fan of plain tomato juice, how about an epic Bloody Mary from this one-of-a-kind restaurant in Ohio?
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Ohio In Your Inbox
Thank you! You will receive your first email soon.
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Alexandria. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
