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 $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.
Discounted $3 gate passes (for Kids Day ONLY Wednesday, August 7) may be picked up at any West Shore Bank location. While supplies last.
Fair Entrance $5.00 – 5 & under free.
Fair Entrance $5.00 per person – 5 & under free. GRANDSTAND INCLUDED IN GATE ADMISSION TODAY ONLY!
Fair Entrance $5 per person – 5 & under free. All Veterans and Senior Citizens admitted free.
Fair Entrance $5 per person – 5 & under free
Fair Entrance $5 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
Every year, local organizations offers sales for tree seedlings and for native plants. Take advantage of this great service!
During the summer is the Petunia Parade in Ludington featuring 30,000 petunias lining Ludington Avenue and the marina.
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.
Ludington hosts many events and activities that are geared toward kids and families, that’s part of what makes the area so great!
Ludington is the location for many Car Shows during the summer. Various awards and plaques are presented at these car shows.
The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.
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.
The Ludington State Park offers winter activities. With snowshoeing tours, cross country skiing, and natural beauty, it’s a winter paradise!
Ludington is home to several different museums for people of all ages! Highlighting our area’s careers, businesses, history, and culture!
The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
The three accessible walkways installed at Stearns Park Beach in Ludington allow everyone to make their way to the water and sand.
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
A children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many “cars”.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
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