The Gogebic County Fair has been happening in Ironwood, Michigan for over a century. Every second week in August they have gathered at the fairgrounds. And so, when the community learned the fair may be canceled, they came together to find a solution.

After 2023’s County Fair there was some barns that were burned down at the fairgrounds in September. This led to the county board deciding, in October, that they did not want to have the county fair help on those fairgrounds. Linda Nelson, a Fair board member, shared what they did to make the fair still happen this year.

Getting the Fair back on the schedule

“Back in September of last year. We had some barns burn at our fairgrounds. And in October, the county board got together, and they said that they didn’t want us to use our fairgrounds last year. So, we had to come up with an alternative and we went to the city of Ironwood. We went to the Pat O’Donald Civic Center. We went to the Gogebic Community College, and I’ll ask them if we could use this venue for Gogebic County Fair. And they said yes.”

“So, I first called the city manager and then I had to come to the Pat O’Donnell Civic Board and ask them if we could have it here. And then I went to the college and got permission from the college board to use the parking lots. Just so we covered all of our bases, and every single one was more than willing to help out and they wanted to partner with the communities and make this happen. So it happened, it happened and we’re so grateful.”

This not only was accomplished by the fair board and the city council, but also by the community through volunteering and other areas to make the fair possible this year. A local who works on chainsaw carving shared his experience.

“There was some talk that it wouldn’t happen, but a lot of volunteers and a lot of hard work. And it all came together for this year. And even though it didn’t have some of the elements that it had the previous year, it continues the tradition.”

Enjoying the Festivities

Thanks to dedication and support from the city and the local community college—- the fair continued in full swing. From auctions, to rides, and even chainsaw carving for all generations to enjoy.

“I think the favorite part this year as in every year is seeing the young kids in the 4-H with the animals. They really have a passion and a love for taking care of these animals and it shows.” Expressed Joel, a goer-er of the fair.

The fair filled the days in which it was hosted, each time giving back to the community and helping build the fair for future years. We were also informed that work has already begun on building new barns at the fairgrounds. So, the fair board members say that if everything goes well, they should have the fair next year at the fairgrounds like they have had for the last 100 years.

“And so, we can get everything up and running and be in full swing for next year’s fair.”

They do have a website, gogebiccountyfair.com. And for any inquires, or those who wish to be vendors at future events, they recommend sending messages to the Gogebic County Fair. People can also call any one of the Fair Board members, or even send them a private message.