It is that time of year each August when horse-drawn carriages travel the streets, oxen mow the grass, and women wear long frocks. It is the annual Port Oneida Fair that takes place over two full days in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Visitors will experience life as it was in the late 1800′s and early 1900s in this small town of early settlers.
Port Oneida was founded by German and Prussian immigrants that settled to log and fish in the late 1800s. As settlers came, they build homes, barns, a school, a blacksmith shop, and a post office. Families grew their own food and raised livestock on their farms, but they also worked in businesses outside the home to support their families. Since Port Oneida is part of the national park its buildings and structures are vacant but preserved for all to see.
The Port Oneida Fair is a wonderful event for people of all ages. Seven historic sites are open including farmsteads and the one-room schoolhouse. Over 100 demonstrations of rural cultural traditions are open throughout each day including weaving, candle making, soap making and log cutting. Re-enactments of key historical events are also scheduled. Children have the opportunity to experience what life was like in the 1800s by participating in hands-on activities.
The fair is open on Friday and Saturday, August 13 and 14, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm in the Port Oneida Historic District of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore located on M-22 just north of Glen Arbor. For a list of events and times visit, Port Oneida Fair Schedule of Events. There is no admission charge but a park pass is required. Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau for lodging recommendations.
The historic fair is hosted by Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Manitou Islands Memorial Society, Michigan 26th Civil War Re-enactors, and the Glen Arbor Business Association, PRESERVE Historic Sleeping Bear, Glen Arbor Art Association, Friends of Sleeping Bear Dunes, Leelanau Conservation District, Leelanau Historical Society, and Leelanau Chamber of Commerce.
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