Western Montana Fair at Missoula Fairgrounds

The Western Montana Fair is bringing you two unforgettable weekends of excitement: Machine vs. Muscle! Kicking things off with Machine, July 31 – August 2, packed with Lords of Dirt, incredible car shows, a luxury bike show, and all things mechanical. The fair returns with Muscle, August 4 – August 8, featuring rodeo action, livestock shows, and animal events.

With 8 exciting days of food, carnival rides, arena events, and nonstop fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

When the sun starts to set, the music turns up. Every night at 7:00 pm, enjoy FREE live music featuring a stacked lineup of local bands. Grab a bite, enjoy a drink, and discover your new favorite artist!

SATURDAY | AUGUST 1

FREE Activities – All Day

Step into the world of craftsmanship and creativity with the talented Carousel of Missoula Woodcarvers on the first floor of the Commercial Building. Watch skilled artisans bring a beautiful wooden carousel horse to life through live carving demonstrations and learn about the artistry behind these timeless treasures. Young fairgoers and adults alike can get creative by designing their own mini wooden carousel horse to take home as a special Fair keepsake. This free, hands-on activity is a fun way to experience local artistry, ask questions, and create a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

Western Montana Fair Car Show – West Lawn

Classic chrome, modern muscle, custom builds, and timeless favorites come together on the West Lawn for the Western Montana Fair Car Show. Stroll among an incredible collection of vehicles, meet the owners, swap stories, and admire the craftsmanship that makes every ride unique. Be sure to arrive early—these beauties cruise out at dusk before the evening arena shows begin, making this a must-see daytime attraction you won’t want to miss.

Motorcycle Showcase – Commercial Building

For one weekend only, the historic Commercial Building roars to life with the Montgomery Distillery Motorcycle Showcase. Inspired by the distillery’s popular Spirits & Spokes events, this special exhibit features an impressive collection of vintage classics, custom builds, and modern machines from riders across Western Montana. Whether you’re a lifelong enthusiast or simply appreciate beautiful craftsmanship, this is a must-see stop during the “Machines” Weekend of the Western Montana Fair.

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Saturday’s Shows, Exhibits & Events

10:00 am

Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium Opens – walk-ins welcome, tickets also available online (G.W. Marks Exploration Center)

12:00 pm / Noon – FAIR & CARNIVAL OPENS

Carnival Opens
Food & Amusement Vendors Open
Exhibitions Open (Commercial Building, Floriculture, Culinary)
Rocky Mountain Gardens Open
UM Woodsman Team Timbersports Demonstration (Historic Plaza)

Gates open for Lords of Dirt – Preliminary Races – FREE Admission (Clouse Bauer Arena)

1:00 pm

Sentinel High School Cheer Team Performance (Historic Plaza)

1:30 pm

FREE Insect Predator Feeding (Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium Byron Weber Classroom, G.W. Marks Exploration Center)

2:00 pm

Parker Beckley Live Art Demonstration (Historic Plaza)

3:00 pm

Parker Beckley Spray Painting Demonstration (Historic Plaza)

4:00 pm

Participatory Dance with Missoula Folklore Society (historic Plaza)

5:00 pm

Participatory Dance with Missoula Folklore Society (Historic Plaza)
Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium closes

6:00 pm

Gates open for Lords of Dirt Flat Track Motorcycle Racing (Clouse Bauer Arena)
Rocky Mountain Gardens closes

7:00 pm – LORDS OF DIRT + FMX + $4000 Cash to Fans

The championship is on the line as the fastest riders battle for the Lords of Dirt Finals—and you can win right alongside them! Grab a Fortune & Fury: Fan Draw race card for just $20 (cash) before the green flag drops. Your card enters you in every cash drawing of the night, with prizes growing larger after each race. When your matching racer wins, you earn bonus chances to take home the cash. Don’t just watch the excitement—be part of it. Pick up your race card on your way into the grandstands and cheer your rider to victory! (Clouse Bauer Arena)

7:00 pm – FREE LIVE MUSIC

FREE Live Music by Tanner Laws Band (Starlink Stage)

10:00 pm

Fair & Carnival closes

Complete Western Montana Fair Schedule

FREE Admission – All Day, Every Day

Thanks to the generosity of Western Montana Fair sponsors, come and go at your leisure several times a day, every day, no charge. Click here for tips and guidelines on how to maximize your visits including where to park on the newly renovated Fairgrounds.

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  Western Montana Fair at Missoula Fairgrounds

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  Western Montana Fair at Missoula Fairgrounds

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