This state fair marks end of summer. Where to celebrate in Michigan
The annual tradition, now held in Novi on Labor Day weekend, dates back to 19th century Michigan, per local historians. The fair showcases the state's agricultural industry, with a farmers market featuring fresh produce and a competition judging livestock from across Michigan.
From farming to carnival rides, baking contests, fitness, live music, craft beer and beyond, there will be something for everyone at the 2025 Michigan State Fair.
"The Michigan State Fair, LLC, is devoted to the ongoing development and support of agriculture, business entrepreneurship, and family entertainment, while preserving the legacy and beloved traditions of the original State Fair," the event website says. "This privately produced event carries forward all of the positive aspects of past Fairs, including substantial positive economic impact, with major charitable and community benefits, all with no burden to the taxpayer."
Here's what to know.
The Michigan State Fair will be Aug. 28 to Sept. 1, 2025.
The Michigan State Fair began in 1849 in Detroit, with a previous version held in 1839 in Ann Arbor, according to the Detroit Historical Society. The event then moved around before settling back in Detroit for good in 1905 at the State Fairgrounds at 8 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue.
Here are some of the activities you can check out at the state fair:
Baking contests
Steamers Thrill Show
Flagstar Farmers Market
Live entertainment musical acts
Friday Night Flights beer festival
Livestock exhibits and competitions
Blood drive
Midway carnival rides and games
Rock-N-Roll K-9 dog performances
Butter cow sculpting
Moovin' thru the Midway 5K run/5K walk
Pig races
Fair admission is $10, with children ages 2 and younger free. Ultimate admission, including unlimited carnival rides and BMX/FMX shows, costs $42. Tickets for the Friday Night Flights craft beer festival are $20, including 10 drink tickets, for ages 21 and older.
Minors must have a parent or guardian with them to attend the state fair, per organizers. Fair admission does not include carnival rides.
The state fair will be held at the Suburban Collection Showplace at 46100 Grand River Ave. in Novi.
The Michigan State Fair was previously held in Detroit, running out of the state fairgrounds at 8 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue from 1905 to 2009, the Detroit Free Press reported. In 2009, the state fair was discontinued due to budget issues and in 2012 the event was relocated to Novi.
The Detroit Free Press contributed.
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: When is the Michigan State Fair
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