The U.P. State Fair: yes, it is that big of a deal.
Every time around this year, the heartbeat of this small town comes to life as a long-waited event welcomes people through its gates to the U.P. State Fair. The Upper Peninsula State Fair means a lot to us around these parts. If you think I might be slightly overexaggerating, I have just a few reasons why the U.P. State Fair is that big of a deal.
Reason number one: We aren’t the only ones who wait in anticipation for August to roll around. Our yearly fairgoers look forward to annual fair traditions like visiting the Antique Steam and Gas Village shops and strolling through the livestock barns. Since 1928, kids have been stashing their spare change so they can splurge a little on the delicious fair food and rides. Each year, community members plan their summer carefully so they can catch a view of the sun descending from the grandstand as big-name performers prepare to deliver a night that won’t easily be forgotten.
Reason number two: The proud youngsters that go by the name of exhibitors. There is no doubt that the U.P. State Fair wouldn’t be the fair without its youth exhibitors. These exhibitors wait patiently for their big moment of recognition for their months of hard work with their critter by their side. Their families, some of who have traveled far, gather around the arena looking for the kid who has already won grand champion in their eyes.
Reason number three: Our vendors tirelessly prepare products weeks, months, and even a year in advance for a chance to catch the eye of those wandering the fairgrounds. Whether it’s food, crafts, or services, our vendors are eager to claim a spot at the Upper Peninsula’s most attended event. Better yet, our guests are even more excited to see them after a year’s wait.
Reason number four: Our entertainment never disappoints, and it’s free. Each year our line-up of big-name entertainers arrive at a town they don’t always know how to pronounce but leave refreshed as a crowd full of Yoopers rave over their perfected craft. You can always guarantee a packed grandstand full of lively spirits. It’s not every day that one can witness high-quality performances for the total cost of $0.
Reason number five: Sponsors for the U.P. State Fair love it just as much as everyone else. It’s not uncommon for big-name sponsors to cash a check to a random large event to get their name out. Although getting recognized is a benefit of sponsoring the fair, our sponsors are different because they see sponsoring the fair as an opportunity to give back to the community and an event they have grown to love.
Reason number six: The Economic Impact is impressive. Businesses know that fair week has arrived when people from all over the region crowd their stores. With an event that has continually crushed attendance records year after year, it’s not a surprise to see millions of dollars circulate throughout the region. An economic impact study conducted during the fair in 2018 concluded that $5.3 million was spent at area hotels, restaurants, retail stores, and several other businesses.
Reason number seven: We are dedicated to making the U.P. State Fair the best event. Our organizers spend much of the time in and out of the office behind the scenes meeting, listening, delegating, and putting to life what you see during fair week. And when the fireworks take to the sky on the last Sunday of the fair, we finally take a breath and relish the moment. And when Monday comes around, we sit down and relive all the things we loved about the fair and how we can make next year the best one yet.
So it is that big of a deal. Because the U.P. State Fair isn’t just a fair, it’s the people who all come together for a week, with different backgrounds and reasons they have passed through our gates. But they all have gathered for one purpose- they’re here for something pretty great.
For over two years, we have been waiting for this moment, and we hope you have a chance to come out and enjoy the U.P. State fair from August 16-22. You can see a full schedule online at upstatefair.net.
