ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – On the second day of the U.P. State Fair, the midway was buzzing with activity.
Skerbeck Entertainment Group returned to provide this year’s midway entertainment. Co-owner Sonja Skerbeck says the rides are the most eye-catching part of the fair.
“We have 30 rides at this event,” said Sonja. “People absolutely love the Super Nova 360. It’s a thrilling ride, it goes all the way upside down. The Top Gun is another big favorite, but there really is something for every age category.”
Another big draw is the games.
“We’re featuring three new carnival game concessions this year, which is really a substantial economic investment for our company,” Sonja said.
According to Sonja, it’s a family affair. Her son, 18-year-old Joseph Serbeck, has been involved in the family business for years.
“I think I started when I was 12 or 13 selling concessions,” Joseph recalled.
Now, Joseph is a carnival game pro. He has even grown a large following on TikTok by sharing his expertise.
“I post about how to beat every single carnival game, the best rides, best fair food, he said. “I think a lot of people see a goofy video about a ride and they’re like, ‘Oh my goodness, I went on that ride.’ ‘I threw up on that one; it was terrible.’ ‘It was great.’ Either way, everyone can kind of relate to something in a different way and it comes together to build a community.”
That community is why the Skerbecks do what they do.
“We operate 26 weeks a year and we are on the road and in different communities every week,” said Sonja. “For us to be able to do a hometown event is really special.”
Joseph is proud to continue the legacy for another generation.
“I’m like the seventh generation of almost 150 years worth of showmanship–starting with a circus, transforming into a carnival, traveling across the United States,” he said. “It’s a really nice thing to be part of a beautiful family and to continue this tradition.”
Click here for more information on Skerbeck Entertainment Group. The U.P. State Fair continues through Sunday, August 20.
WZMQ 19 News is a proud sponsor of the 2023 U.P. State Fair.
