Don’t Miss MontanaFair, Billings’ Biggest Summer Bash!

School’s almost back, but there’s still time for one last summer adventure. If you’re near Billings, or up for a drive, MontanaFair runs August 8-16, 2025 at MetraPark, and it’s a great way to make some final summer memories.

A Rich History: From Midland Empire Fair to MontanaFair

MontanaFair wasn’t always called MontanaFair. It started way back in 1916 as the Midland Empire Fair, a small community gathering focused on agriculture, races, and local exhibits. People from Montana and Northern Wyoming came together to share ideas, and there was even a shuttle train that ran to the fairgrounds for just a dime!

Over time, the fair changed names from Midland Empire Fair to Yellowstone Exhibition, and finally to MontanaFair. It also moved to its current home at MetraPark after the original fairgrounds’ auditorium burned down in 1969. The new arena at MetraPark now hosts rodeos, concerts, and more.

Billings’ Biggest Event Draws Big Crowds

Today, MontanaFair is the largest event in Montana, pulling in around 250,000 visitors over nine fun filled days. It’s a mix of old and new: live music, rodeos, motocross, carnival rides, 4-H and FFA exhibits, delicious food vendors, and arts and crafts. It’s where the community comes together to celebrate hard work and Montana pride.

The Mighty Thomas Carnival: Fun for All Ages

One of the biggest hits every year is The Mighty Thomas Carnival. From thrilling rides like the Star Tower and Zipper to family friendly classics like the Merry-Go-Round and Fun Slide, the carnival midway is packed with games, prizes, and tasty fair food you won’t want to miss.

Concerts That Light Up the Night

Music lovers, get ready! The Pepsi Concert Series brings top names like Flo Rida (August 8), Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias (August 9), and Russell Dickerson with Niko Moon (August 10) right to the First Interstate Arena. Grab a concert pass to catch all three shows plus fair entry on those days.

Rodeo Billings: Pro Rodeo Under the Big Sky

From August 14 to 16, experience the PRCA Rodeo Billings in Montana’s first outdoor rodeo arena at MetraPark. It’s a true Montana experience filled with bull riding, barrel racing, and plenty of heart-pounding action.

Deals and Discounts to Save You Money

MontanaFair offers plenty of ways to save:

• Half-price gate admission on August 8
• Kids 12 and under free until 5 p.m. on August 9
• Family Day discounts on August 11
• Half-price carnival wristbands on August 13
• Special savings for seniors, military, and pink-shirt wearers on other days

Check out all the deals at montanafair.com/events/deals.

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Free Daily Entertainment and More

Even when you’re not at a concert or rodeo, there’s something to do every day from comedy shows and duck races to live music and interactive events on the community stage.