ESCANABA — The gates will open at 5 p.m. on Monday, August 15 and will run through August 21. Can you imagine planning a really big seven day party for a 125 thousand friends? My peers at the Chamber Building and the UP State Fair Authority plan all year for this event that brings so much joy and excitement to the area. There is no event that has the economic impact of the U.P. State Fair. Once again the weather forecast looks outstanding for the entire week. The team has outdone themselves with the entertainment schedule for the grandstand and midway. Everyone will find shows they really like. I love the smell of all of my favorite treats at the fair. I can’t wait to go through the midway try all of the vendors’ special items they have made for the fair goers. If all of that doesn’t get you excited, there are all rides and games on the midway to challenge you.

This is also a very special week for all of the exhibitors. They all work hard all year to get their animals in tip top shape to compete for the grand prizes in their category. Their work is rewarded by our many local supporters that participate in the Junior Market Livestock Sale. Registration for the auction starts at 8 a.m. on Saturday, August 20 , with the auction kicking off at 11 a.m. The generosity of the bidders and buyers only happens in the U.P. You can see all of the animals during the week by touring the barns or watching the many competitions throughout the week. This event doesn’t happen without the support of the many sponsors that provide financial support to the U.P. State Fair every year. There are too many sponsors to name them in this article, but they are listed in the U.P. State Fair guide that was in the Wednesday, August 10 Daily Press.

Events that are timeless like the fair, create life long memories. I am sure we can all remember the first time our parents took us to the fair. You can see that look of amazement you had on the many young children in attendance this week. I always remember my cousins coming to visit us from New Jersey and the highlight of the visit was when we would get to go to the fair. It is such a powerful memory they are coming to visit this week. The visitors, vendors, exhibitors all create lasting memories and friendship during Fair Week. It takes a lot of planning for a party of this size, but the members and volunteers that assist the U.P. State Fair Authority annually, know it is worth the effort. The laughter and smiles on those in attendance regardless of age are priceless. Everyone loves coming to the fair and is sad when it is over. Make it a point to come participate in the U.P.’s largest event. I know you will have a great time.

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Ed Legault is director of the Delta County Economic Development Alliance