Summertime’s grand finale: the Michigan State Fair.
The annual tradition, now held in Novi on Labor Day weekend, Aug. 28-Sept. 1, 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.
In addition, there are carnival rides, baking contests, live music, craft beer and more.
Here’s what to know ahead of the Michigan State Fair:
When is the Michigan State Fair in 2025?
The Michigan State Fair will be from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Aug. 28-29; and from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Aug. 30-Sept. 1.
Where is the Michigan State Fair?
The state fair will be held at the Suburban Collection Showplace at 46100 Grand River Ave. in Novi.
What happens at the Michigan State Fair?
Here are some of the activities you can check out at the state fair:
How much are tickets to the Michigan State Fair?
Fair admission is $10, though children ages 2 and younger can enter the fairgrounds for free. Fair admission does not include carnival rides.
On Thursday, Aug. 28, senior citizens (ages 62 plus), military members, teachers with identification and members of the Scouts of America can enter the fair for 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.
What is the unaccompanied minor policy?
Unaccompanied minors under 18 will not be allowed to enter the fairgrounds, per the fair’s website.
Can I leave the fair and come back on the same day?
Guests who leave the fairgrounds and intend on returning must have their wristbands on. If a guest leaves and returns without a wristband, they will have to pay for a ticket again.
There is no re-entry allowed after 7 p.m., which is when the box office closes.
What items are not allowed inside the fair?
According to the fair’s website, there are several items not allowed on the fairgrounds, such as:
Can I bring a bag to the fair?
Yes, guests are allowed to bring bags, containers, coolers or cartons, however the fair has the right to inspect such vessels if needed. Here are other items that are acceptable to bring to the fair:
Are wheelchairs or scooters available for rent at the fair?
No, the fair does not provide wheelchairs, scooters, strollers or wagons, though guests may rent transportation devices via Liberty Medical beforehand. The fair directs guests to call (248) 496-2751 to make such arrangements.
Where can I park my car to get to the fair?
Parking will be available on site, however it is first come first serve with no parking fee. During high occupancy and peak times, ancillary and overflow parking may be used.
Shuttles will be available to drop off and pick up guests in overflow parking areas.
For those who ride a bicycle to the fair, there is a bike rack available. Bicycles are not permitted to enter the fairgrounds.
Are there ATMs on the fairgrounds?
Yes, ATMs are located in the fair — cash, Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Discover are accepted.
If the weather is bad, can I get a refund?
No, the fair does not offer refunds for purchased tickets if poor weather develops.
Why was the Michigan State Fair moved to Novi?
The Michigan State Fair was previously held in Detroit at 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, Sarah Moore: smoore@lsj.com
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan State Fair 2025: What to know ahead of time. Tickets, parking, schedule and more
Reporting by Jenna Prestininzi and Sarah Moore, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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