ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – After seven days of fun, the 2026 U.P. State Fair came to a close Sunday night.
According to organizers, early numbers indicate that attendance for this year’s fair increased by roughly 8% compared to 2025. A major draw throughout the week was the entertainment, which included Phil Vassar, Woodland Sky Dance Company, Midland, and Daughtry, who completely packed the Grandstand Friday night.
The week’s highlights also included the U.P. Veteran of the Year Ceremony, honoring Steve Kwarciany, and a luncheon with Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. The Menominee-Delta-Schoolcraft Community Action Agency sponsored a Wellness Fair on Wednesday, and on Friday, The Island Resort & Casino Drift Spa brought self-care to the fairgrounds.
For some fairgoers, the most exciting part of the fair was eating their favorite foods.
“The cheese curds and mini donuts,” said Izzy, a fairgoer from Gladstone.
“I like the elephant ears,” said Willow, one of four cousins who attended the fair together.
“We’re going to have to go with the pizza that’s way over there, and it’s like $3,” said Gladstone resident Braxton Bjorne. “It’s so good.”
“I bought a lemonade because it sounded good,” said local fairgoer Melissa Anderla. “It’s almost all gone, but the fair is all about drinking and eating!”
Others were there for the thrills.
“A lot of the rides are fun, and Overdrive was just added last year,” said Willow. Cousin Peter added, “Mine is the Ferris wheel!”
“My favorite part is the rides and the great experience it comes with,” said Escanaba resident Lachlan.
There were also games to play on the midway, livestock auctions to attend, and animals to see in the barns.
“It’s nice because it’s local and it has a bunch of local people coming,” Izzy said. “It’s kind of like a tradition.”
That has become true for many fairgoers over the years, like Lachlan, who said he “absolutely” attends every summer.
“The people, the food, the games—it’s super fun,” he said.
With all the fun these fairgoers had at the 2026 U.P. State Fair, they are already looking forward to returning next year.
“It’s lots of fun,” Anderla said. “You’re on an adventure all the time. You never know. You meet new friends, you meet old friends, and you get to see loved ones.”
“It’s just an all-around fun experience,” said Bjorne. “You’ve got to come to the fair once in your life. It’s awesome.”
For updates on what will be in store at the 2027 U.P. State Fair, follow the U.P. State Fairgrounds on Facebook.
