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.
Fair entrance is $2 on Tuesday and $4 per person, with children 5 and under entering free the rest of the week. Ride wristbands are $30 Tuesday and Thursday-Saturday, and $25 on Wednesday (Kids Day). In July, purchase a pre-sale mega ride pass for $70 for unlimited rides all week!
Days, times, and events listed below reflect the typical fair schedule from year to year, but may be subject to change. The Western Michigan Fair event schedule for 2023 will be announced in March or April. Check back then for more details.
(Seniors & Veterans Free, Shuttle Service Available)
Other events: Chase’s Racing Pigs with shows Thursday-Saturday and the Stilt Walking Balloon Man will be on the grounds throughout the fair.
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
There are a large variety of family friendly Easter activities that occur each year throughout West Michigan.
Everyone enjoys a good play or concert, and Ludington blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us all year ’round.
Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!
Ludington hosts many events and activities that are geared toward kids and families, that’s part of what makes the area so great!
Advertisement – Please scroll below for more information.
Ludington is alive with an array of artistic events that take place throughout the year. There’s music, photography, art galleries, and more.
Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.
Discover all of the different trails and tours that Ludington has to offer! Discover a water path, hiking trail, or an art work stop!
Ludington is home to several different museums for people of all ages! Highlighting our area’s careers, businesses, history, and culture!
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!
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.
Just blocks from the beach is the heart of downtown Ludington, where you can shop, dine, and enjoy summertime events.
No matter your experience level, Ludington area charter captains will guide you in what to bring and what to expect on the big lake.
There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.
The Ludington Area Center for the Arts (LACA) is the gathering place for community expression through arts and cultural experiences.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
THANK YOU!