If you're counting down the days until the Western Montana Fair, there's another chance to enjoy carnival rides, games, and classic fair food before summer gets into full swing. 

Who remembers the May Street Spectacular? They used to close the streets and have a carnival in Missoula years ago. Something similar is coming to the Southgate Mall this week. The Southgate Mall Spring Carnival is coming this week, bringing 11 days of rides, fair food, and family fun to town. 

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The carnival is scheduled to open Thursday, June 4, and run through Sunday, June 14. Crews have already begun moving rides into the Southgate Mall parking lot, and setup is currently underway ahead of opening day.

Paradise Amusement is bringing the carnival to town. Hours are: 

  • Monday through Friday: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.  
  • Saturday and Sunday: 2 p.m. to 11 p.m.  

Unlimited Thrills: Ride Hours and Pricing

Unlimited ride wristbands will be available for $40. 

Organizers note that ride availability, operating hours, and pricing may change due to weather and other conditions. 

A Family Tradition: Kickoff to Summer in Missoula

For many Missoula families, the Southgate Mall carnival serves as an unofficial kickoff to summer. It's also a chance to enjoy some of the same attractions people look forward to every year at the Western Montana Fair. 

READ MORE: Missoula’s Western Montana Fair Is Changing in a Big Way for 2026

Speaking of the fair, a few changes are coming this year. The Western Montana Fair is scheduled to begin earlier than usual and will run a little longer than in previous years, giving fairgoers even more opportunities to enjoy the annual event. 

Until then, the Southgate Mall Spring Carnival offers a great excuse to grab some carnival food and enjoy a few spins on your favorite rides. 

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For additional information and updates, organizers encourage attendees to check the carnival's Facebook event page before heading out. 

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