UP State Fair sets record
More than 108K attended
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ESCANABA -- The 2026 U.P. State Fair wrapped up on Aug. 23 following a record-setting week celebrating agriculture, entertainment, community and America's 250th anniversary under the theme "United in Fun." An estimated 108,500 entries passed through the gates at Michigan's only state fair this year, an increase of approximately 8% over 2025.
Saturday marked a record attendance day, while strong crowds throughout the week filled the midway, livestock barns, exhibit buildings and grandstand. Skerbeck Entertainment Group, the fair's longtime midway partner, reported ride revenue up another 1.5% over 2025.
Grandstand entertainment presented by Island Resort & Casino was once again among the week's biggest draws. Daughtry performed to a capacity crowd, while Phil Vassar and Midland added to an outstanding concert lineup. The ATV Thrill Show and UPW Uprising Wrestling brought even more variety to the grandstand, while the Woodland Sky Dance Company and Sebastian Gaskin delivered a memorable celebration of Native American culture and tradition.
"One of the things we're especially proud of is the value we're able to offer our fairgoers," said Vickie Micheau, executive director of the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, managing agency for the U.P. State Fair. "Once you come through the gates, there is just so much to see and do without spending another dollar. Our headline grandstand entertainment, daily shows, exhibits, activities and so much more are all included with gate admission. We work very hard to make sure the U.P. State Fair remains a place where families can spend the whole day together, have a great time, and make some wonderful memories while getting a lot of value from their admission. Keeping the fair fun and reasonably-priced for families is something that is very important to us."
The fair's "United in Fun" theme provided a fitting backdrop for the celebration of America's 250th anniversary. Special events throughout the week included Native American Awareness Day, the recognition of the U.P. Veteran of the Year and a visit from Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist for the traditional luncheon.
Fairgoers also discovered plenty of experiences unique to 2026, including Nancy Baker's remarkable 650-pound cheese sculpture, Martinez Sand Sculptures, Bob the Burro and the People Mover, Drift Spa, and line dancing classes and competition. Together with livestock shows, educational exhibits, music, demonstrations and family entertainment throughout the grounds, the attractions offered something new to discover each day.
"As wonderful as the attendance numbers are, what really stands out is the tremendous support behind this fair," said Authority Chair Matt Jensen. "Our exhibitors, vendors, sponsors, volunteers, staff, community partners and fairgoers all have a hand in its success. There are countless people working before, during and after fair week to make this event possible, and we are incredibly grateful to every one of them."
The 2026 U.P. State Fair concluded with Escanaba Motor Speedway racing and a spectacular fireworks display sponsored by Skerbeck Entertainment Group.
With another successful fair in the books, planning is already beginning for 2027 as the U.P. State Fair moves ever closer to an especially significant milestone -- its Centennial Celebration in 2028.