Noah Johnson Daily Press Mark Cowman, of the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, unveils the entertainment and activities for 2025 U.P. State Fair at the Island Resort and Casino.

ESCANABA — The entertainment lineup and activities for the 2025 Annual U.P. State Fair were announced Wednesday at the Island Resort and Casio in Harris.

The week of music, rides, games, shows and food returns to U.P. State Fairgrounds on Aug. 11 – 17. Grandstand entertainment includes a cornhole tournament on Monday. Musical acts take over the stage Tuesday with the Beatles Tribute band The Fab Four. On Wednesday, the band Diamond Rio is the featured entertainment. Thursday features Snotty Nose Rez Kids. Justin Moore performs Friday with Pop Evil and UPW Uprising Wrestling finishing off fair week.

Hannahvile Tribal Council Chairperson Kenneth Meshigaud spoke at the event before the fair details were released. The tribe is a partner with the U.P. State Fairgrounds. Meshigaud said the tribe has always been proud to support and assist in activities in Delta County. “We’re all in this together,” he said.

Mark Cowman, of the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, emceed the event, covering each day of the week during the fair.

Before revealing the week’s schedule, a new ride coming to the fair was announced. The Overdrive, created by Skerbeck Entertainment Group, with an elevated deck and a spinning car will make its debut this year. “It’s fast, it’s fun, it’s new, and it’s on the U.P. State Fair Midway,” Cowman said.

There are a variety of free events on the midway, including the acrobat extravaganza, the strolling piano, the bingo tent, the robotics fair play, and Martinez sand sculptures. In addition, there are events fun for the whole family, including the Whispering Pines Animal Kingdom, Growing UP Foresters, and a chance to witness master carver Sarah Kaufmann craft a sculpture completely out of cheese.

Those looking to go back in time can visit the Steam and Gas Village, where guests can enjoy weaving and woodworking and get a look around the sawmill. Nature lovers can head over to DNR Pocket Park for free fishing, archery and pellet-gun shooting.

Those thirsty and over 21 can swing over to the beer tent for a brew, where Upper Hand Brewery will unveil a fair-themed beer on opening day. “I want you to get ready for a week packed with non-stop excitement, entertainment, and unforgettable memories. Here’s what’s happening every day at the State Fair this year,” Cowman said.

Guests will be treated to a fun horse show, an acrobat extravaganza, and one of the most anticipated events: the queen court crowning in the beef show ring. The night concludes with a corn hole tournament in the grandstand. “Cheer on your favorite team as the bags fly over the place and fun heats up,” Cowman said.

Tuesday is “Chewsday,” where participating food vendors will offer samples and discounts. Tuesday is also sensory day at the fair, where lights and sounds will be limited from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday is Wellness Wednesday and Senior Citizens Day, sponsored by Community Action. “Senior citizens, get in for just $5, and there’s a full slate of activities in the Grand Stand Concourse that are tailored just for them. You get to take a break for a hearty lunch during the middle of the day with the congregant meal program. With a suggested donation of just $4, it’s a deal that can’t be beat,” Cowman said. Country music band Diamond Rio concludes the event with a performance in the grandstand.

Thursday is Honored Citizens Day, honoring various members of different communities. “From our Native American neighbors to our veterans and civic leaders.

Native American visitors receive a $5 admission, and veterans will be getting in for free as a thank-you for their service and contributions. The day starts off with a touching veterans of war ceremony recognizing those who gave above and beyond for their country and their community,” Cowman said.

At lunchtime, registered guests will have a luncheon with Governor Gretchen Whitmer. The day is also President’s Day, a day of welcoming fair and festival professionals from across the state. The day concludes in the grandstand with a performance by hip-hop group Snotty Nose Rez Kids (SNRK), whose music is focused on growing up on reservations and Native identity.

Friday is a day of relaxation presented by Island Resort and Casino Drift Spa. Local providers and industry professionals will provide complimentary services, demonstrations and presentations. It’s also a great day for horse lovers as there will be an open halter and an English show, followed by western trail classes, a type of competition where horses and riders show off their precision and skill. The day concludes with a performance by country artist Justin Moore.

Saturday is Agriculture Day, which is includes horse speed events and the junior market livestock auction, where attendees can take home locally raised meat. It’s a perfect day for dog lovers as D&D Dog Dynamics and UP Dynamic Dogs for a dog show, including cute costumes and obstacle courses. The rock band Pop Evil caps off the night with a performance in the grandstand.

Sunday, is Family and Scout Day, where scouts in uniform get free admission as long as a paying adult accompanies them. Wrestling fans get a chance to experience UPW Uprising, a night of live wrestling. To cap off the week, Skerbeck Entertainment Group is providing a fireworks show on the grandstand.

“A spectacular show of lights and color brings the 2025 UP State Fair to a dazzling close. It’s a perfect ending for a week full of memories, laughter, and community pride,” Cowman said.

For more information regarding the 2025 UP State Fair, visit www.upstatefair.net.