Fairs in the Greater Lansing area don’t get underway until July, but there are fairs across Michigan this summer and some start as soon as this week.
Fairs get underway in Lake Odessa, Croswell, Marion and Waltz starting June 15, according to state officials. Most county fairs take place in July or August.
Michigan is home to nearly 100 county fairs and similar events, the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development says.
“Michigan events celebrate the state’s cultural and agricultural heritage by showcasing the cuisine, arts and seasons — and, above all, the fun-loving spirit you’ll find here,” Pure Michigan says.
Here’s what to know.
What is a county fair?
International Association of Fairs and Expos, a not-for-profit corporation that promotes fairs, says the beginnings of what we now know as county fairs goes back to ancient times when farmers and others showed off and sold their wares.
“Modern county fairs have evolved out of the core elements agricultural society events of the early 1800s. Fairs revolve around competition for the best agricultural and domestic products of the county or community (or region or state), an annual celebration for the community to come together, share, and learn,” the group said.
The origins of American county fairs date back to early 19th century northeastern states, with agricultural exhibits boosting modern farming, according to the Chicago Historical Society.
What can you expect at county fairs?
Fairs provide industrial exhibits, demonstrations, and competitions to advance livestock, horticulture, and agriculture, emphasizing educational activities such as 4-H, FFA, and similar youth development programs, the IAFE said.
“Most fairs also provide exceptional educational activities to help today’s consumer understand the importance of farming and the food source on their plate. While enjoying these high-minded pursuits, fair visitors can also see, hear, touch, smell, and taste the richness and variety of what the world has to offer,” the IAFE website notes.
County fairs typically feature crop and livestock displays, competitions and auctions, carnival rides, dining and beverage options, college scholarships, live music, craft vendors, games and fundraisers, Agfinity and The Fair Publishing House said.
How many county fairs does Michigan have?
Michigan features annual 86 county fairs, the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development said.
When do Lansing-area fairs take place this summer?
Does Michigan have a state fair?
Yes, in fact there are three:
When and where are Michigan’s 2025 county fairs?
Here’s a look at the 2025 county fairs lineup:
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: It’s almost fair time in Michigan. When, where Greater Lansing fairs take place in 2025
Reporting by Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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