Michigan State Fair Wrap-Up: Fair Director Says Novi is Its New Home, Police Say No Traffic Delays

Over 80,000 people attended the Fifth Third Bank Michigan State Fair Labor Day weekend at Novi's Suburban Collection Showplace, said Mike Watts, the fair's executive director.

"As far as we’re concerned, that's the new home of the Fifth Third Bank Michigan State Fair," he said. 

He said the exhibit hall worked well for the animals, the grounds outside were perfect for the rides and the crowds fit well in the spacious venue. 

"There were never any long lines or crowding once you got into the fair," he said.

Last year's fair, which was put together by a different group, reached an attendance of 50,000, Watts said. This year's fair was coordinated by Michigan State Fair, LLC., owned by Blair Bowman who also owns the Suburban Collection Showplace. It was the fair's official comeback, and it's expected to be an annual tradition in Novi.

"We had a bigger, better and more fun event to offer," he said.

That was possible because of key sponsors, like Fifth Third Bank and St. John Providence Health System, which sponsored entertainment and provided emergency medical services, he said. Over 150 volunteers and planned publicity in the area's media also played an important role, according to Watts.

"The City of Novi and Oakland County were some of the biggest contributors to the success of the event," he said.