The biggest annual celebration in Missoula is back.
The 2026 Western Montana Fair returns to the Missoula County Fairgrounds from Friday, July 31, through Saturday, Aug. 8, bringing eight days of carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, motorsports, rodeo competition, live music, local food, and family activities. Admission to the fairgrounds is free, making it one of western Montana's largest free community events.
This year's fair introduces a "Machine vs. Muscle" theme, splitting the event into two distinct experiences.
The opening weekend, July 31–Aug. 2, focuses on "Machine," featuring high-energy motorsports including Lords of Dirt, classic and custom car shows, and motorcycle displays. After a one-day pause on Monday, Aug. 3, the fair resumes with "Muscle" from Aug. 4–8, highlighting PRCA rodeo action, livestock competitions, 4-H and FFA exhibits, agricultural showcases, and animal events.
Beyond the arena events, visitors can expect the traditions that have made the Western Montana Fair a summer favorite for generations.
The midway will feature carnival rides and games throughout the fair, while exhibit halls showcase local agriculture, gardening, culinary arts, photography, fine arts, fiber arts, crafts, and community competitions. Food vendors will offer classic fair favorites alongside regional specialties, and families can explore livestock barns, educational displays, and interactive exhibits across the fairgrounds.
Free nightly concerts
Every evening at 7 p.m., fairgoers can enjoy free live music included with admission.
The 2026 lineup includes:
- July 31: Jaden Decker (Country)
- Aug. 1: Tanner Laws Band (Country)
- Aug. 2: Idle Ranch Hands (Honky Tonk)
- Aug. 4: Supaman & Foreshadow (Hip-Hop/Rap)
- Aug. 5: Wild Wind (Americana)
- Aug. 6: Josh Farmer Band (Pop)
- Aug. 7: 406 (Contemporary)
- Aug. 8: Brass and Soul Collective (Funk & Soul)
Arena events require tickets
While admission to the fairgrounds is free, select arena attractions—including the rodeo and Lords of Dirt performances—require separate tickets. Carnival rides also require ride passes or tickets. Fair organizers recommend purchasing arena tickets in advance, particularly for popular evening events.
Event Details
What: 2026 Western Montana Fair
When: July 31–Aug. 8, 2026
Where: Missoula County Fairgrounds, 1101 South Ave. W., Missoula
Admission: Free to enter the fairgrounds; arena events and carnival rides require separate tickets.
Whether you're coming for the rodeo, motorsports, live music, livestock shows, carnival rides, or simply a corn dog and a summer evening with friends, the Western Montana Fair offers something for nearly every age and interest. As one of Missoula's signature annual events, it also provides an opportunity to support local agriculture, youth exhibitors, nonprofits, and regional entertainers while celebrating the communities of western Montana.
