2nd-longest running fair in Michigan set for next week

By Allison Scarbrough. OCP Editor.

HART — The 144th Annual Oceana County Fair, which is the second-longest running fair in Michigan, is set for Tuesday, Aug. 25, through Saturday, Aug. 29, at the Oceana County Fairgrounds.

The event draws approximately 25,000 fair goers every year, said Oceana County Fair President Clancy Aerts. The fair’s history dates back to 1871.

The longest-running fair in Michigan is the Lenawee County Fair in Adrian, which just had its 176th annual event, July 26 through Aug. 1.

Due to the Avian Flu, the Michigan Department of Agricultural and Rural Development cancelled poultry shows and exhibits at fairs across the state this year. “You won’t hear the roosters crowing this year,” Aerts said.

Despite the absence of feathered fowl, there will be plenty of other farm animals to see, as well as many fun events and activities.

Elliott’s Amusements will once again provide the rides and midway, which opens Tuesday at 5 p.m. Tuesday is also Entry Day, which starts at 9 a.m. Oceana Has Talent begins at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the Grandstand.

The midway opens Wednesday at 2 p.m. Harness horse races begin Wednesday at 1 p.m. in the Grandstand with free admission. Farm Worker Appreciation Night begins at 7 p.m. Wednesday in the Grandstand.

Thursday the midway opens at 2 p.m. The Oceana 4-H Ambassadors will be presented Thursday at 6:45 in the Grandstand, followed by the 4-H Market Livestock Auction at 7 p.m.

Friday is Youth Day, and the midway opens at 1 p.m. Check out Heavyweight Horse Pulling Friday at 2 p.m. in the Grandstand. Local farmers compete in tractor pulling in the Grandstand Friday at 7 p.m.

On Saturday, watch the autocross and demolition derby in the Grandstand at 8 p.m. Adult admission is $10, and children 12 and under are $5. The Garden Tractor Pull is from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday in the Grandstand, and admission is free.

Enjoy the music of Ruthie & Friends, who will perform throughout fair.

Free transportation to and from the parking area is provided.

See fair schedule here