A Century of Tradition:
The History of the Dickinson County Fair

The Dickinson County Fair, held annually in Norway, Michigan, is one of the Upper Peninsula’s most cherished and enduring events. Rooted in agriculture and community, the fair has welcomed families, farmers, and fairgoers for over 100 years — offering a rich blend of entertainment, tradition, and rural pride.

From Field to Fairgrounds (1905–1930s)

The fair’s origins trace back to 1905, when local farmers formed the Menominee Range Agricultural Society to create a new fair in Dickinson County. The first fairs were hosted in downtown Norway and quickly became regional highlights. By 1910, the fair moved to its permanent home, with community volunteers helping clear land and construct buildings.
By the 1920s, the fair featured horse racing, livestock competitions, motorcycle races, and fireworks. In 1929–30, Dickinson County joined with Marinette County, Wisconsin, for a landmark joint fair, drawing record crowds and strengthening cross-county bonds.

Surviving Challenges, Celebrating Resilience (1940s–1960s)

Despite wartime rationing, epidemics, and economic struggles, the fair persisted. The Skerbeck Carnival joined the event in 1941, becoming a fixture for decades. Over the years, WPA projects helped improve infrastructure, and 4-H competitions emerged as central attractions.

Big Names and Big Crowds (1970s–2000s)

The fair's grandstand hosted a dazzling lineup of entertainers, from Brenda Lee and Charlie Pride to Neal McCoy, Blackhawk, and more. Attractions grew to include demolition derbies, tractor pulls, monster trucks, and antique exhibits.
By the 1980s, the fair was drawing 60,000+ attendees, with affordable prices and weekend passes helping keep the event family-friendly. Parking was streamlined, camping expanded, and livestock auctions boomed — blending rural roots with modern appeal.

The Spirit of the Community (2000s–Today)

As of the 99th and 100th anniversary celebrations, the fair continues to thrive thanks to generations of volunteers, Fair Board members, and supportive local leaders. Longtime contributors like Richard Bedard and Wally Bouchey exemplify the fair’s spirit of service. With over 130 upgraded campsites, 4-H entries, games, concerts, and racing, the fair remains a Labor Day weekend highlight.
Despite rising costs and reduced state subsidies, the Fair Board has kept the event affordable and inclusive. From little kids catching their first carnival ride to lifelong farmers showcasing their livestock, the Dickinson County Fair is, above all, a labor of love.

Here’s To 100 More

For more than a century, the Dickinson County Fair has celebrated the values of hard work, community, and fun. It honors its past while embracing the future — and stands as a proud symbol of rural Michigan’s heritage.
Come for the rides, stay for the memories — and be part of the next 100 years of tradition.

Meet the Team

County Fair Board Members

Chuck Parker - Chairman
James Dal Santo - Vice Chairman
Dan Harrington - County Liaison
Vicki Jakel - County Liaison
Anthony Grudnoski
Ashley Edwards
Beth Bray
Liane Arnold
James Stachowicz
Tom Bedard
John Gunville
Mike Gregg
Caretaker: Doug Dabb
Rob Barkle