Hello reimer38, I may not live in Ohio but I have been a few chess tournaments. http://ohchess.org/tournament_calendar/eventsbycategory
Here is a website for the ohio chess tournaments and when they are happening. MOST IMPORTANTLY: 95% OF TOURNAMENTS REQUIRE YOU TO HAVE A USCF ACCOUNT. This USCF account cost money, about 50-150 dollars depending on how long you want this USCF membership. This may be helpful but it might also not be. Look around this website if you want more information. In most tournaments that I entered, there will be a fee about $10-25. In some tournaments, they also want players to bring their own boards. However, this may be true in some tournaments. It is best to look at the tournament host and their page. They will usually tell you what the fee is on-site and online, the time-control of the tournament, and whether chess clocks and chess board will be provided. I can't really tell what you should expect when you get there because I never did an Ohio tournament. However, one thing that you should expect is a variety of ratings.(except if the tournament is arranged for a rating group)
I'm interested in joining a chess tournament. I live in Ohio and would like to find one nearby. I've never played in a chess tournament. I was wondering if anyone had any input on how I should go about signing up, any supplies I need, and what I should expect when I get there. Thanks in advance for your advice!