ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – The 2025 U.P. State Fair wrapped up Sunday after a week of strong attendance and enthusiastic community support.
Fairgoers packed the midway, barns, and grandstand, driving record gate revenue and vendor sales. Despite bouts of rain and heat, the fair delivered memorable experiences for families and visitors of all ages, making it one of the most successful in recent history.
Overall, the estimated attendance of 100,500 rose by 0.5% over 2024, marking another year of steady growth. Skerbeck Entertainment Group, the fair’s longtime midway partner, reported record-breaking ride revenues, reflecting the strong turnout and enthusiasm from families across the region.
Grandstand entertainment, presented by the Island Resort & Casino, once again delivered memorable performances from The Fab Four, Diamond Rio, Native American hip hop group Snotty Nose Rez Kids, Justin Moore, and Pop Evil, while UPW Uprising Wrestling brought high-energy excitement to close 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, which is 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.”
A highlight of the week was the presentation of the Veteran of the Year Award to Raymond E. Carlson of Negaunee, honoring the service of one of the Upper Peninsula’s own. The recognition drew a standing ovation from fairgoers and underscored the fair’s deep community roots and veteran appreciation. Fair officials were also honored to welcome Michigan Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist, who joined guests for a special luncheon during the fair.
“This year’s fair was truly one for the record books,” said U.P. State Fair Authority Chair Matt Jensen. “Even with some challenging weather, the support from our community, sponsors, vendors, exhibitors, staff, volunteers, and fairgoers made 2025 an unforgettable success.”
The fair capped off with a spectacular fireworks display, sponsored by Skerbeck Entertainment Group, on Sunday evening. Planning is already underway for the 2026 U.P. State Fair, promising another week of tradition, agriculture, and entertainment in Escanaba.
WZMQ 19 was proud to once again be a Reserve Champion Sponsor of the 2025 U.P. State Fair.
