Courtesy Photo Alpena County Fair 2026 logo

ALPENA – The Alpena County Fair Society will hold a public meeting at 6 p.m. on May 5 at the Ramada Inn in Alpena. This meeting is in regards to the proposed entertainment complex development for the Alpena County Fairgrounds, according to an Alpena County Fairboard press release on Sunday.

The release stated that the board is reaffirming its commitment to the fair’s longevity and inviting the community to join in a conversation about the future of the fairgrounds.

“For over a century and a half, the Alpena County Fair has served as a cornerstone of the community,” the release stated “While the fair board recognizes and sees the need for fairground improvements, their primary responsibility is to make sure that any new partnership protects the integrity of the fair for generations to come.”

“Our goal is to maintain a constructive partnership with Alpena County while ensuring the fair remains a vibrant and independent tradition,” Courtney Tauriainen, fair society president, said in the press release. “We are carefully evaluating how this proposal impacts our youth programs, our 4-H partners, and our mission, and we are evaluating all possible options.”

The fair board stated it is aware of “strong opinions in the community” around the development project and is seeking community input. Interested community members who are at least 18 years old are invited to join the Fair Society with an annual membership fee of $5.

According to the release, members will have the opportunity to weigh in on decisions that affect the fairgrounds.

Individuals interested in becoming members can join at the meeting on May 5.