You know you've reached peak summer when it's time for MontanaFair! At MetraPark in Billings, MontanaFair is a nine-day celebration kicking off the second weekend of August. As the region's largest agricultural celebration of its kind, MontanaFair draws in more than 250,000 attendees annually. Are you saddling up to attend MontanaFair 2024? Here's what you need to know to make the most of Montana's monumental agricultural event!
What Is MontanaFair?
MontanaFair follows the American West's long tradition of fairs! More than 10,000 people will compete for prizes and ribbons when they submit their entries in livestock, beer, wine, horticulture, crochet, arts and crafts, pickling, and more. A highlight of the event is the Thomas Carnival, which features rides and games. There are also music, comedy, variety acts, and live entertainment stages. Here's a look at some of the shows and events on the roster for MontanaFair 2024:
- Stephen Pearcy of RATT
- Kip Moore
- Boys Like Girls
- Big Air Bash
- Yellowstone River Roundup Rodeo
Of course, the grub at MontanaFair is legendary. Attendees can fill up on BBQ, corn on the cob, and fresh-squeezed lemonade. There will also be a beer garden for 2024. While a number of 4-H and non-4-H livestock events will take place during MontanaFair, the highlight is the MontanaFair Draft Horse Expo on Aug. 10 and Aug. 11.
How to Attend MontanaFair
MontanaFair occurs at MetraPark Fairgrounds at 308 6th Avenue North in Billings, Montana. MontanaFair 2024 dates are Aug. 9 through Aug. 17. The event will run from 4 p.m. to midnight on Aug. 9. Hours for all other dates are from noon to midnight. However, vendors will shut down by 10 p.m. nightly.
Getting Tickets for MontanaFair
Tickets for MontanaFair can be purchased online ahead of the event. If you'd like to gain access to all shows and events, you can purchase a MontanaFair ValuPass that gives you access to everything. The MontanaFair ValuPass gives you general admission to all-night shows, concerts, motocross events, and rodeos with your gate admission.
Planning an Unforgettable Summer in Montana
There's no doubt that MontanaFair is the highlight of summer in Billings! If you plan to explore Montana's expansiveness this summer, Big Sky Country offers endless opportunities to discover your wild side somewhere between the mountains and prairie. One attraction you won't want to miss if you're coming to the Billings area is a unique area called the Rimrocks. Consisting of rimrock sandstone formations, this geological treasure just outside town is a legendary spot for hiking and sightseeing. If you head to the Four Dances Recreation Area at the Rimrocks, you'll have perfect views for snapping photos of the Yellowstone River from more than 500 feet up! Several trails will lead you directly to the river. Regardless of which path you choose when exploring the Rimrocks, you'll find serenity in an unspoiled landscape. Of course, the rest of Billings also waits to delight you with museums, natural attractions, and incredible dining.