A Missoula Summer Tradition Gets an Upgrade

The Western Montana Fair has been a summertime staple at the Missoula Fairgrounds for as long as most locals can remember — but this year, it's doing something it has never done before.

For the first time in its history, the fair is running across two consecutive weekends, giving families, students, and visitors more time to soak it all in, as KPAX reported.

What's on Offer at the Fairgrounds

The scene at the fairgrounds has all the hallmarks of a classic county fair — carnival rides, games, and no shortage of food options to argue about with your group.

Younger attendees have been gravitating toward a ride called the 'Rockstar,' which has quickly become one of the most talked-about attractions on the midway.

For kids looking for something a little tamer, the 'Rockin' Tug' has been another popular pick this year.

A Family Tradition, Happening Right Here in Missoula

One thing that stands out every year at the Western Montana Fair is how deeply it's woven into local family routines.

Plenty of the folks showing up this week aren't first-timers — for many Missoula families, this is simply what August looks like.

Students taking advantage of their last stretch of summer break have also been a big part of the crowds this year.

When to Go: The Second Weekend Lineup

The fair is closed Monday, August 3, but it picks back up Tuesday, August 4 and runs through Friday, August 8.

The second weekend brings rodeo action, additional carnival games, and livestock shows to the Missoula Fairgrounds.

If you haven't made it out yet, there's still a solid window to catch everything the fair has going on before it wraps for the year.