The Western Montana Fair Isn’t Over Yet—Here’s What’s Still Happening

If you're anything like me, the Western Montana Fair is one of those traditions that just feels like summer. 

Culinary Adventures: Fair Foods on a Stick

I almost treat it like camping. Calories don't count at the fair, and if you can eat as many things as possible on a stick, you've officially had a successful fair experience. 

The fair is making history this year with its first-ever two-weekend schedule. After taking Monday off, the fun picks back up and continues through the weekend before wrapping up for another year. 

So far, it's been another fantastic year. 

Celebrating Hard Work: Livestock Exhibitors Shine

One of my favorite parts of the fair isn't the rides or even the food: it's stopping by the livestock barns. A big shout-out goes to all of the FFA and 4-H exhibitors who spend countless hours caring for and showing their animals. Their hard work is always one of the highlights of the fair. 

For some reason, I always find myself spending extra time in the swine barn. I don't know why, but I've always had a soft spot for those pigs. 

Free Admission Makes It Easy to Visit 

READ MORE: Western Montana’s Top 7 Fair Foods

One of the best parts about this year's Western Montana Fair is that admission is free. That makes it easy to stop by for a few hours, grab some food, check out the exhibits, enjoy the carnival, or catch some live entertainment without worrying about paying to get through the gate. 

Exciting Events: The Line-Up You Can't Miss

Here's what's still coming up: 

• Tonight - Missoula Stampede PRCA Rodeo - 7 p.m.- Josh Farmer Band performs on the Starlight Stage  
• Friday - Missoula Stampede PRCA Rodeo - 7 p.m. - Free concert by local favorite 406 on the Starlight Stage  
• Saturday - Final night of the PRCA Rodeo - Free performance by Brass & Soul Collective  
• The fair wraps up Saturday August 8, at 10 p.m. 

And if you're already thinking ahead, mark your calendar now: the 2027 Western Montana Fair is scheduled for August 6-14, 2027. 

Fair Food Is Half the Fun 

Let's be honest—the food deserves its own trip. 

READ MORE: Don’t Believe the Rumors: One of Your Favorite Fair Foods Will be at the Western Montana Fair

This year I managed to check off several of my favorites: 

• A Viking  
• Corn on the cob  
• A classic corn dog  
• Fry bread from All Nations Health Center  

Pretty much everything I ate came on a stick, except for the fry bread, and I have to say it was absolutely worth making an exception. 

The hardest part of the Western Montana Fair is trying to sample everything before it's over. There are simply too many great food vendors, exhibits, rides, and shows to fit into one visit. 

If you haven't made it out yet, or you're thinking about going back one more time, you've still got a few days left.

Final Tips: Enjoy Your Fair Visit to the Fullest

Just don't forget the sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and enjoy one of the best summer traditions Western Montana has to offer.