Fair time is bittersweet as it is something that many Missoulians look forward to each year, but it also means it's almost back to school time and the end of summer. And forget the naysayers who say "the fair sucks now," because you know what? It DOESN'T suck, it's the perfect place to run into people you haven't seen in a while and enjoy a Tater Pig or a Viking in the beer garden.

Plus, The Western Montana Fair partnered with a new carnival vendor, North Star Amusements, in recent years and the carnival is better than ever. There are also new events this year including a Brewfest. (UPDATE: Brewfest has been cancelled.) And you can count on your favorite annual events as well, including the Demo Derby and Rodeos. There are even Pokestops at the fairgrounds!

If you're a newcomer to the fair, I highly recommend the Missoula Indian Center Indian taco booth at the east end of concession row, the FFA tacos and the Lemondairy booth.

Daily admission at the gate is $6 for adults, $3 for students, $4 for 55+ and free for kids 5 and under and military. You can also ask about discount family passes and season passes.

Carnival "Pay One Price" unlimited ride passes are on sale now at all Noon's stores for $20 through August 8th. An unlimited ride pass for the entire week is $80 at Noon's.

Tuesday, August 9th

The Fair and Carnival open at 5 p.m. with free admission when you donate canned food.

Rodeo, 7 p.m., $10.

Wednesday, August 10th

Senior Day, free admission for 55+ and free admission from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch.

Bullorama, 7 p.m., $12 & $16.

Thursday, August 11th

Kids Day, ages 6-17 get free admission until 6 p.m.

Free admission from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch.

Rodeo, 7 p.m., $12 & $16.

Friday, August 12th

Bike to the Fair Day, free admission when you ride your bike to the fair.

Free admission from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for lunch.

Brewfest in the Culinary Building starting at 5:30 p.m. (UPDATE: Brewfest is cancelled.)

Chicks n' Chaps "Behind The Chutes" event.

Rodeo, 7 p.m., $12 & $16.

Saturday, August 13th

Rodeo, 7 p.m., $12 & $16.

Sunday, August 14th

Free admission all day.

NAPA Demo Derby starts at 4:30, with myself and KC as your MCs.

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