West Michigan July Fairs and Festivals

There's nothing like the smell of Elephant Ears and the buzz of kiddie rides.

It could be said that a county fair is the ultimate cross-section of humanity because it's a reminder of what life is really all about - having fun.

Be sure to take the kids out and enjoy at least one of these festivals this month.

You can pet a goat, test your archery skills, play Bingo, eat a deep-fried banana and jump on a trampoline, and yet you probably won't be the strangest person there.

Here are a few events to check out:

Mecosta County Free Fair, Big Rapids, Mich. July 11-16 2011

Sparta Town and Country Days, Sparta, Mich. July 13-17 2011

Barry County Fair, Hastings, Mich. July 18-23 2011

Berlin Fair, Marne, Mich. July 18-23 2011

Ionia Free Fair, Ionia, Mich. July 21-30 2011

Ottawa County Fair, Holland, Mich July 25-30 2011