Photo by Western Michigan Fairgrounds
The Western Michigan Fair is where you see your friends and neighbors, celebrate the waning days of summer, and appreciate good family values. The big cities may have the advantage over us in certain things, but nothing beats the feeling you get living in a cozy, friendly town with annual events like the Western Michigan Fair.
With the exception of WWII, the fair has been held every year since 1936 at the Mason County Fairgrounds on US-10 in Ludington. The fair was modified in 2020 due to concerns surrounding the COVID-19 virus. The fair features the midway, demolition derby, harness horse racing, entertainment, still exhibits, grandstand events, and carnival rides. But the real attraction of the fair is the 4-H exhibits and animals. Area youngsters who have worked hard the past year raising their sheep, chickens, cows, and rabbits proudly wait for the judge’s ribbon. Equestrians get their chance to showcase their horses, and homemakers busily prepare their pies and other homemade goodies for judging.
Ride wristbands are typically $30 Tuesday and Thursday-Saturday, and $25 on Wednesday (Kids Day). Pre-sale mega ride passes go on sale in July and can be purchased at tjschmidtcarnival.com.
Days, times, and events listed below reflect the typical fair schedule from year to year, but may be subject to change.
Fair Entrance $5.00
Fair Entrance $3.00 per person – 5 & under free
Fair Entrance $5.00 per person – 5 & under free. All Veterans and Senior Citizens admitted free. Shuttle service from parking lot will be available.
Fair Entrance $5.00 per person – 5 & under free
Fair Entrance $5.00 per person – 5 & under free
Think the fairgrounds are just for the fair? Not here in Ludington! The Mason County Fairgrounds gets plenty of use in the summertime, one of our favorite seasons here along the lakeshore. The 185-acre site where the fairgrounds and airport are now located was farmland purchased in 1935 from Charles G. Wing. The first fair in Mason County was held in 1936, and the fair has been held each year with the exception of during WWII.
The fairgrounds have undergone a facelift in 2013-2014, with $672,000 in improvements. They include:
The fairgrounds are busy throughout the summer with various horse shows, including 4-H Youth, Quarterhorse shows and the AQHA/MQHA. In September, the Mason County Fairgrounds hosts the MIHA District IX Equestrian Meet. Almost every summer weekend, there’s an open air flea market at the fairgrounds, where you’ll find everything from books to furniture to tools. It’s a great place to browse and find those unique treasures.
Western Michigan Fair Association
5302 W. US-10, Ludington, MI 49431
231-843-8563
After a busy day at the beach or at work, it’s time to kick back and relax a while. What better way than to listen to some music.
The popular tourist town of Ludington, Michigan will celebrate its 150th birthday (sesquicentennial) in 2023. Many events will be included.
Everyone enjoys a good play or concert, and Ludington blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us all year ’round.
The State of Michigan offers its residents and outstate visitors “free” weekends to fish, ORV, or snowmobile each year.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
“Fish on For Freedom” is a non-profit event that provides a free day of fishing to military veterans on Lake Michigan.
Ludington hosts many events and activities that are geared toward kids and families, that’s part of what makes the area so great!
The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.
Ludington is a popular location for various races and runs… including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.
Book lovers will find bargains at the many used book sales held in Manistee, Ludington, and Hart in West Michigan.
Advertisement – Please scroll below for more information.
Ludington’s North Breakwater Light is the number one lighthouse to see in Michigan! Take a trip along the breakwater path to see it up close!
Ludington is home to several different museums for people of all ages! Highlighting our area’s careers, businesses, history, and culture!
It rises and sets every single day, and nothing is more breathtaking than our spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan.
The S.S. Badger Carferry is a fun and relaxing shortcut across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
The fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down here in Ludington! Nightlife here includes festivals, cozy restaurants, and local performances.
Your pet should feel right at home in Ludington. There are many businesses that allow pets and parks and beaches for them to play on.
Disc golf is a big deal here in the Ludington area, with up to 20,000 people per year visiting one of our six courses.
No matter your experience level, Ludington area charter captains will guide you in what to bring and what to expect on the big lake.
Ludington has miles of beautiful beaches, the Ludington State Park, and all the activities that take place in Mother Nature’s playground.
Children can create, explore, and discover by playing with the numerous variety of exhibits of Sandcastles Children’s Museum.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
THANK YOU!