As a Missoula family photographer—and a mom—I know how special it is to have those once-a-year events that become lifelong memories. For many local families, the Western Montana Fair is exactly that. From the scent of kettle corn and sawdust to the sound of laughter echoing from carnival rides, the fair is a nostalgic mix of small-town charm and big excitement—and it’s perfect for kids of all ages.
About the Western Montana Fair
1101 South Ave W, Missoula, MT 59801
Held at the Missoula County Fairgrounds, the Western Montana Fair is a beloved annual event that’s been bringing families together for over a century. First launched in 1879, the fair was created to showcase local agriculture, celebrate community, and give folks a reason to come together and have fun. Today, it still honors those roots with livestock shows, local food, rodeos, and music—while adding in plenty of modern excitement like carnival rides, food trucks, and themed events.
The fairgrounds themselves are easy to navigate with little ones and offer plenty of shaded areas and open spaces, so it never feels overwhelming.
Experience The Excitement Of The Western Montana Fair
The Western Montana Fair offers something for everyone in the family. There’s a classic carnival midway with rides and games, a variety of local food vendors serving up both traditional and adventurous treats, and a petting zoo that younger kids always love. You’ll also find 4-H exhibits and hands-on agricultural displays that give kids a chance to learn while having fun.
One of the best parts? Most of the fair’s main attractions are included at no cost, making it an affordable way to spend a full day with your family. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure type of event—whether your kids want to ride the Ferris wheel ten times or sit and watch the rodeo, there’s something that will keep them smiling.
Specialty
The Western Montana Fair also features special events throughout the week, including family day celebrations, kids’ competitions, and even youth rodeos where the next generation of cowboys and cowgirls can show their skills. The live music and cultural performances add another layer of fun, and many events are designed with kids in mind, from animal shows to fun runs and more.
And if you’re raising little animal lovers, don’t miss the livestock barns. Kids can get up close with everything from bunnies to prize-winning cattle, often guided by local students who are eager to share what they’ve learned.
I Hope Your Family Makes The Western Montana Fair A New Tradition
The Western Montana Fair is one of those events that brings out the best of Missoula—community spirit, local flavor, and fun that spans generations. It’s a place where families make memories, where kids experience the thrill of something new, and where the smells, sights, and sounds of summer stay with you long after the fairgrounds go quiet.
And if you’re hoping to hold onto the magic of this season just a little longer, I’d love to help you capture it. As a Missoula family photographer, I specialize in creating relaxed, joyful sessions that reflect exactly who your family is in this chapter. Let’s plan something beautiful together, because these sweet summer moments are always worth remembering.
