Fairgoers are seen on the midway during the 2025 U.P. State Fair in Escanaba. (R. R. Branstrom | Daily Press)

By Daily Press Staff

ESCANABA — The 2025 U.P. State Fair wrapped up Sunday after a week of strong attendance and community support, organizers said.

Fairgoers packed the midway, barns, and grandstand, driving record gate revenue and vendor sales, despite bouts of rain and heat.

Overall, the estimated attendance of 100,500 rose by 0.5% over 2024, though it didn’t hit the high of about 104,000 that was recorded in 2023.

Skerbeck Entertainment Group, the fair’s longtime midway partner, reported record-breaking ride revenues, reflecting the strong turnout.

Grandstand entertainment, presented by the Island Resort and Casino, delivered performances from The Fab Four, Diamond Rio, Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Justin Moore and Pop Evil, while UPW Uprising Wrestling closed out the week.

Agriculture and youth remained at the heart of the fair. The livestock shows, exhibits in the Miracle of Life Pavilion, the U.P. State Fair Royal Court Crowning and the always-popular livestock and poultry auctions showcased the dedication of young exhibitors and the strength of the region’s farming traditions.

“One of the fair’s biggest draws continues to be the wide range of entertainment included free with gate admission,” said Vickie Micheau, executive director of the Delta County Chamber of Commerce, the managing agency for the U.P. State Fair. “Once they passed through the gates, fairgoers enjoyed nightly grandstand shows, livestock competitions, daily educational exhibits, and unique features like the Martinez Sand Sculptures workshops, the strolling piano, Arestov’s Acrobatic Extravaganza, and activities in the Steam and Gas Village and DNR Pocket Park — all at no extra charge. This unique value makes the U.P. State Fair a standout among affordable family fun events in Michigan.”

One highlight of the week was the presentation of the Veteran of the Year Award to Raymond E. Carlson of Negaunee, an annual tradition of honoring the service of one of the Upper Peninsula’s own. The recognition underscored the community’s veteran appreciation.

Fair officials were also honored to welcome Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, who joined guests for a special luncheon.

The fair capped off with a fireworks display sponsored by Skerbeck Entertainment Group on Sunday evening.

“This year’s fair was truly one for the record books,” said Matt Jensen, the chair of the U.P. State Fair Authority. “Even with some challenging weather, the support from our community, sponsors, vendors, exhibitors, staff, volunteers and fairgoers made 2025 an unforgettable success.”

Planning is already underway for the 2026 U.P. State Fair, promising another week of tradition, agriculture and entertainment in Escanaba.