One of the many things I’ve enjoyed since returning to Missoula is visiting the Missoula Fairgrounds. Growing up in Missoula, I spent my summers going to the fair to see the rodeo and often, to perform with my dance troupe at the stage shows during the afternoons, or selling delicious food from the Hellgate High School band booth. But attending as an adult, I’m enjoying the fair in whole new ways.  

Of course, instead of making the food I’m eating it. That’s why we all go to the fair, right? That and playing bingo with the inimitable Denny Bedard. I’ve never been one for rides, except maybe the Ferris wheel because from up there you get a pretty incredible view of Missoula. I do like walking through the Commercial Building, Flora Culture Building, Culinary Arts Building, and the Home Arts Buildings to see exhibits with award-winning art, flowers, and textiles.  

But one of the features at the fair that I’d never paid much attention to until last year was the Barn Dance. I was on my way out of the fair when I heard some live music. Around the corner of the Commercial Building, I was met with a crowd singing along with a band. It took me back to the days of dancing with my grandpa at the Traditions Restaurant at the Big Fork Inn. It felt like a truly “Montana” moment to me.  

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So I was really excited to see that the lineup for musical acts at the Western Montana Fair was released yesterday, and among the acts, three of them are local groups.  

Wednesday, August 9, 5 pm – 7 pm Foreshadow 

Thursday, August 10, 5 pm – 7 pm Cash for Junkers 

Friday, August 11, 5 pm – 7pm The Timber Rattlers 

Throughout the fair week, there will be eight acts, one starting at 5 pm and another starting at 9 pm each day Wednesday through Saturday. You can see the full lineup at this link

Sounds like more announcements will be coming on April 1, too, so make sure you have our app to stay in the know.  

Splash! Photos from the 2023 Polar Plunge in Missoula

It was a beautiful day for a dip and to support Special Olympics of Montana!