by The Manistee County Fair is set to bring a week of excitement, tradition, and community spirit to Manistee County, Michigan. From thrilling carnival rides and rodeo action to homegrown exhibits and delicious fair food, this annual event offers something for everyone.
Fair Dates and Timings
- Dates: August 11–16, 2025
- Timings:
- Monday–Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Venue
- Location: Onekama Fairgrounds, Onekama, MI
Tickets
- General Admission:
- Adults (13–64): $8
- Seniors (65+): $5
- Children (6–12): $5
- Kids under 6: Free
- Weekly Pass: Adults $25, Seniors/Children $15
- Parking: Free on-site parking
- Special Deals:
- Tuesday: Kids Day – Free admission for children under 12 until noon
- Thursday: Senior Day – $3 admission for seniors all day
Main Attractions
- Livestock Shows & Auctions – 4-H and FFA youth present cattle, pigs, goats, and poultry
- Demolition Derby – High-energy smash-and-crash action on Friday night
- Horse Shows – Featuring barrel racing, showmanship, and jumping events
- Open Class Exhibits – Arts, crafts, photography, baking, and floral displays
- Truck and Tractor Pulls – A favorite for fans of raw power and competition
- Parade – Saturday morning parade through Onekama with floats and bands
Event Highlights
- Monday: Fair opens, exhibit halls open, horse show
- Tuesday: Kids Day games, petting zoo, magic show
- Wednesday: Livestock judging, talent contest
- Thursday: Senior Day, truck and tractor pull
- Friday: Youth livestock auction, demolition derby at 7:30 PM
- Saturday: Parade at 10:00 AM, championship horse events, closing concert
Rides and Midway
- A full carnival with rides for all ages including:
- Ferris Wheel
- Tilt-a-Whirl
- Kiddie Coaster
- Giant Slide
- Bumper Cars
- Ride Pricing:
- Unlimited ride wristbands: $30–$35 per day
- Individual tickets available at the midway
Food and Vendors
- Plenty of delicious options including:
- BBQ ribs, hot dogs, and burgers
- Corn dogs, curly fries, and nachos
- Funnel cakes, elephant ears, and cotton candy
- Local vendors selling honey, jams, crafts, and handmade gifts
Additional Information
- Picnic areas and shaded seating available
- First aid and lost & found station near the main gate
- Handwashing and sanitation stations near barns and food courts
- Free hydration stations throughout the fairgrounds
The Manistee County Fair is more than just rides and exhibits—it’s a celebration of local culture, agriculture, and togetherness. Whether you’re there for the food, the animals, or the competitions, it’s the perfect way to enjoy summer in Michigan.
