July 17-21 2024
TICKETS TO THE
BIG SKY COUNTRY STATE FAIR
ARE NOW ON SALE!
Bozeman, MT—
There’s nothing more synonymous with summertime fun than the Big Sky Country State Fair and you can grab your tickets now! The Fair is July 17th – 21st and has all of your returning favorite activities like the concerts, carnival, food row, petting zoo PLUS great new amenities and activities like water refill stations, increased shade and an all-new Biergarten. The grounds will truly be bustling from end to end with entertainment around every corner.
As always, your Fair admission gets you access to some fantastic entertainment
If you’re looking for laughs, check out the Shenaniguns Wild West Comedy Show to see a wild west stand off full of slap-stick and one liners or check out the wickedly funny and mesmerizing Tyzen the Hypnotist to see if you can resist his powerful trance.
Music lovers can enjoy the free shows like PowerHouse!!!, a percussive dance show, or head to the Biergarten to experience free live music every night including the brand new Saturday night dance with Neon Rainbow! For a little extra you can buy a ticket to the amazing main stage concerts. Get low with Ludacris and his special guests DJ Infamous and Childish Major. Rock out with the spectacle that is Hairball – a Celebration of Arena Rock as they bring out the costumes and pyrotechnics. And fall in love with summer as Joe Nichols and special guest Tyler Rich bring their smooth voices and classic country jams to the stage. Concert admission includes general Fair admission.
Classic Fair experiences are also available and enhanced with an expanded food row, heart-racing Ranch Rodeo, and new two track mud drag competition.
There are so many other types of adventure you can have at the Fair this summer. Use this guide to better understand all of the fun that is not to be missed at this year’s Fair!
Before you head to the Fair here’s some helpful information
BE SURE TO BRING
A water bottle to fill up at our water stations so you can stay hydrated Sunscreen to stay safe
Your ID if you’re over 21 and want to drink Your love for summer!
ITEMS NOT ALLOWED ON THE FAIRGROUNDS
• Pets (except service animals) • Drugs
• Weapons of any kind
• Outside alcohol
• Bags larger than to approximately 1’ x 2’
(Medically necessary items and diaper bags are excluded from this rule)
ON-SITE ADMISSION PRICES
Adult: $12
Youth (Ages 6 – 12): $5
Children (5 & Under): Free Seniors (Age 62+): $8
Save on admission by buying your tickets online! All pricing increases at midnight on Tuesday, July 16th and all other ticket packages for the Advance Weekly Pass are no longer available.
HEROES DAY!
Free one-day adult Fair admission (Sunday, July 21st only) for all first responders, veterans, and military personnel with valid ID
SENSORY MORNING
Sunday, July 21st we’ll start programming a little earlier with the lights and sounds lowered to create an environment where children and adults who can feel overwhelmed sensorily can explore and enjoy the Fair. Exhibit Building 4 will be the entrance for this experience and will include some specialized info and goodie bags along with a quiet area for kids and adults to enjoy
GUEST HOURS
A Gate
Wednesday, July 17 – Friday July 19: 7am – 11pm
Saturday, July 20: 8am – 11pm
Sunday, July 21: 9am – 6pm
B Gate
Wednesday, July 17 – Saturday, July 20: 11am – 11pm
Sunday, July 21: 11am – 6pm
Opportunity Bank is the Presenting Sponsor.
All tickets are available to purchase at 406statefair.com
WHAT’S NEW AT THE FAIR
THIS YEAR?
Fairgrounds Staff Have Been Working Hard to Make Your 2024 Fair Experience Better than Ever
Summertime in Bozeman is short so we have to make the most of it, but high temps can make the Fair going experience a little draining. The Fair has added several new amenities this year to help you have a more enjoyable experience so that you can squeeze out every drop of summertime Fair fun.
Water refill stations are now located in Exhibit Buildings 1 and 2. Bring your own water bottle or try to get their early and get a free bottle from presenting sponsor Opportunity Bank.
Sometimes, you need a nice place in the shade on some cool grass to really get that second wind. Visit one of the three new Cooling Stations sponsored by Bozeman Health located by A Gate, Treasure State Stage, or south of Exhibit Building one to enjoy a breeze, some cooling water misters, and a bit of peace.
There is also Expanded Shade canopies on food row and the all-new Biergarten if you want to enjoy some shade while still being in the middle of all the fun. If you are feeling signs of heat exhaustion like dizziness or nausea, please visit the new Air Conditioned EMS Trailer located on the southern side of the fair.
If parking hassles have you second guessing whether you’d like to come to the Fair, there’s a Free Park and Ride! Buses pick fairgoers up in Lots 1 and 2 of the Gallatin High School and bring them right to the front gates of the Big Sky Country State Fair. This is a free service running constant loops from 3pm – 11pm Wed –Sat and 12 – 6 on Sun.
A few other things to be on the look out for – the Kids Carnival is now in a new location separated from the hustle and bustle of the main carnival so that your kids can have all their favorite rides in one place. There’s a new Photo Arch where you and your friends and families can gather to snap a commemorative pic of the Fair.
Art by Lyle Hebel
OPPORTUNITY BANK OF AMERICA
As Sponsoring the Big Sky County State Fair is an ideal fit for all of us at Opportunity Bank of Montana. Like this long-time summer tradition, we are made from Montana, by Montanans, with deep roots right here in the Gallatin Valley.
Opportunity Bank of Montana first opened its doors in August 1922, as American Building and Loan with a single office in Helena. The first Bozeman branch began welcoming customers in 1980, spanning a 44-year history in the area.
Since our first day, it has been our privilege to be a Montana community financial institution committed to providing strong financial futures for Montanans. Opportunity Bank has two branches in Bozeman and branches in Livingston and Three Forks, employing 47 people in our area. We contribute to the local economy not only with our presence, but also through the banking services we deliver for our businesses, families, and community organizations.
Our employees are your neighbors, invested in the success of the communities and customers we serve. We are Opportunity Bank of Montana, and the “of Montana” part of our name really means something to us. We appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and invite you to visit one of our local branches.
Enjoy the fair, one and all!
ITINERARY SECTION:
Enjoy like a local: Opportunity Bank employees share their fair favorites
As locals to the area and repeat premiere sponsors, Opportunity Bank staff are experts at having a great time at the Big Sky County State Fair. Here are a few tips on how to have the best time enjoying this year’s activities:
• Families out and about with their little ones can check out the Kids Carnival at its new location by the A gate and take a family photo at the new photo stand. Or, they can catch the action at the Barnyard Races and check out the Petting Zoo at the Haynes Pavilion. And don’t forget to get your face painted at the Fairy Fox on Vendor Row!
o Opportunity Bank’s Julie Kiedrowski and her family love the rides and the hypnotist but say the big draw for her family is always getting up close to the animals.
• If you’re bringing a special someone along for date night, grab tickets to the weeknight concert series, and catch Ludacris, Hairball, or Joe Nichols in action, and stay up late with some dancing at the Biergarten.
• Go for the food: Opportunity Bank Consumer Loan Officer Jolene Randall loves the “food on a stick” and says the “fair is a place to go where you can get good items you wouldn’t normally get other places.
o Colt Deschenes, Opportunity Bank Consumer Loan Officer, recommends checking out the food trucks as a “nice way to stay fed so you can enjoy the fair even longer.”
• Bert Bartle, Opportunity Bank’s Regional President for the Bozeman market, looks forward to the rodeo as it “creates a level of excitement that is infectious, and the event is always entertaining for all. The caliber of contestants is wonderful.”
Opportunity Bank of Montana. Member FDIC.
MADE OF MONTANA BY MONTANANS, SINCE
CHECK OUT THE ALL NEW Biergarten
NEW THIS YEAR - Enjoy some shade and relaxation under the brand new all-ages Biergarten tent. Under this big tent you’ll find the Fair’s main pub, the XL Country Stage, a dance floor, and plenty of seating right across from the carnival so you can take a break before enjoying more Fair! Special events under the tent include:
LATE NIGHT MUSIC
Wed., Thurs., Fri. after the Mainstage Concert around 9:30pm Rock late into the night at the XL Country Stage with some amazing local bands, an open dance floor, and the main pub right there.
Wednesday, July 17 - www.Twang.com
Thursday, July 18 - Bluebelly Junction
Friday, July 19 - Paige and the People’s Band
Saturday, July 20 – Neon Rainbow
LINE DANCING LESSONS
Friday 1:30 – 2:30pm | Sat 2:00 – 3:00pm
Join the famous Western Roots instructors to learn two exciting line dances. Dances will be selected by their instructors for maximum enjoyment of the crowd and be something you will see again on local dance floors!
DJ’D OPEN DANCE
Friday 2:30 - 3:30pm
Take a break from the sun and enjoy a mini-honky tonk session under the tent.
The Western Roots DJ will keep your boots tappin’ and stepping to the best country dancing songs! Be ready to two-step, country swing and line dance!
COUNTRY SWING COMPETITION
Friday 3:30 – 5:30pm
Polish your boots for the first ever Big Sky Country State Fair country dancing competition! Talented dancers from the community and beyond will take the floor to compete for the championship title and beautiful belt buckle. Dancers will be asked to showcase their best moves to a stationary swing song and a progressive two step. Spaces for competitors is limited so sign up now! Age groups are as follows: 8-10, 11-14, 15-18, 19-30 and 30+
Competition starts with 8-10 year olds at 3:30, registering online at 406StateFair. com is recommended. All competitor check in at 2:30. If you are not present for check-in you will be disqualified.
FULL MOON DANCE
Saturday 8:00 – 11:00pm
In the words of Chris LeDoux “Ain’t nothin’ I know of, can make you fall in love, Like a night at the county fair. Western Roots & The Big Sky Country State Fair present the Full Moon Dance. Celebrate the last night of the fair by dancing the night away to the 90s country music stylings of Bozeman’s very own NEON RAINBOW! This band is high energy, all country and a guaranteed good time. This will be a night to remember.
CLOSING NIGHT BBQ CELEBRATION
Sunday, July 21 3:00 – 6:00pm
The best way to say good-bye is through music. The dance floor is open once more for one last dance at the 2024 Big Sky Country State Fair. Grab a plate of BBQ with your friends new and old and celebrate another successful fair at the Gallatin County Fair Grounds. This dinner plate ticket does not include Fair admission.
Adult Plates ($20) include - Brisket, mac and cheese, cole slaw, greens, and corn bread Kids 12 and Under ($10)
NIGHT SHOW
ACTS
2024
There’s nothing quite like live music and the view from the Fair of the summer sun setting over the Bridgers. Join your fellow community members at the Big Sky Country State Fair for three amazing nights of mainstage entertainment sure to blow your hair back and get you dancing.
• LUDACRIS with TWO special guests DJ INFAMOUS and CHILDISH MAJOR will kick things off Wednesday, July 17 starting at 7:00pm
o You know Ludacris from the hit Fast and the Furious films and his Hot 100 singles “Stand Up” and “Money Maker”. Do not miss this sure to sell out concert experience.
• HAIRBALL is lighting up the night on Thursday, July 18 at 8:00pm
o This band puts on a SHOW. Lights, costumes, smoke, pyrotechnics, and fantastic covers of all of your arena rock favorites. Tease your hair high and join us for Hairball!
• JOE NICHOLS with special guest TYLER RICH rounds out the slate of live music on Friday, July 19 at 7:00pm
o Get ready to sing along to “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off”, “Brokenheartsville”, “Sunny and 75”, and all the rest of your favorite songs. Joe Nichols has one of the smoothest voices in country music, grab you ticket and a get ready to have a “Good Day for Living”
All shows are held in Anderson Arena with doors open at 6 p.m., opening acts at 7 p.m., and the headlining performance at 8 p.m. Wednesday night tickets to Ludacris with special guests DJ Infamous and Childish Major $45 for general admission and $50 for reserved grandstand seating. Thursday night show tickets to Hairball are $30 for general admission and $35 for reserved grandstand seating.
Friday night show tickets to Joe Nichols with special guest Tyler Rich are $30 for general admission and $35 for reserved seating. All concert tickets come with gate admission and can be purchased at 406StateFair. com. Additional information may be found at 406StateFair.com.
Big Sky Country State Fair is held Wednesday, July 17th through Sunday, July 21st in Bozeman, MT. The Fair opens to the public Wednesday, July 19. Check out 406StateFair.com for continual updated information on entertainment, tickets, and competitions.
NO SHORTAGE OF FUN!
CHECK OUT THESE GREAT SHOWS INCLUDED WITH FAIR ADMISSION
With fun from end to end of the Fair, make sure to check out all the different areas of the Fair to find the exciting shows and interactive entertainment you’re looking for!
FREE STAGE AREA: Delight in big laughs and thrills with the various stages spread throughout the Free Stage Area south of the Haynes Pavilion.
OFF AXIS STUNT SHOW • W-Sa 12:30, 2:30, 5:30| Su 12:30, 2:30, 5:30
The Off Axis Stunt Show is a nonstop high energy 25 minute performance that is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat. This group of extreme athletes comes from all around the world and are widely regarded as some of the best at their sport. The performers combine their unique disciplines together with 3 death-defying apparatus’ BMX ramps, Trampwall, and Teeterboard and will be flipping as high as 30 feet in the air. This new show is a favorite for all ages and will absolutely inspire the youth to stay active. Presented by Outside Bozeman.
FARMER’S
DAUGHTER • W- Sa 12:00, 3:00, 6:00 | Su 10:00, 12:00, 4:00
The Farmer’s Daughter Show is a comedy acrobatic show with agricultural roots. Farmtastic gymnastics, rowdy rope tricking, and homegrown humor combine for an udderly amazing show (filled with corny humor). Join Molly Judith as she brings her hoops, loops and her country boots from the farm to the stage. This one woman show harvests bales of belly laughter and truck loads of unique tricks. Yee haw!!
SILVER STARLETS • W – Sa 1:00, 4:00, 7:00 | Su 11:00, 1:00, 3:00
The Silver Starlets is an all-female aerial acrobatic show. Full of glam, glitz and glitter, the Starlets use a 20 foot free-standing trapeze rig as their stage. They twist, tumble, bend, climb and fall, getting the audience cheering, laughing and sometimes even dancing right along with them. But don’t let their tutus fool you; The Silver Starlets captivate their audience with family-friendly charm, beautiful grace, and amazing strength. These girls don’t sweat...they sparkle!
PAZ THE SPORTS GUY • W- Sa 2:00, 5:00, 8:00 | Su 2:00, 5:00
The Major League Circus show is baseball like you’ve never seen it. Join Paz as he combines acrobatics, juggling, and one-of-a-kind circus stunts into a grand slam of family friendly fun. This show is for fans and non-fans alike. Paz brings the electric energy of the stadium to any crowd and venue. He’ll have the audience cheering like champions, doing the wave, and jumping out of their seats!
SHENANIGUNS COMEDY WILD WEST SHOW • W – Sa 11:30, 3:30, 6:30 | Su 11:30, 1:30, 4:30
The Wild West goes whack-o when Sheriff Hoppalong Casually and Deputy Leon Jones strap on big iron and face off against dimwit desperadoes Bad Bob and bumbling baby brother Bubba Bob. Seeing the slapstick antics of “ShenaniGuns” is like watching a Wild West cartoon. This quartet of cut-up cowboys fires off a laugh-a-minute load of funny one-liners, silly sight gags and crack-up cornball comedy. “ShenaniGuns” is familyfriendly, sidesplitting Wild West comedy for laughing audiences of all ages.
TREASURE STATE STAGE: Enjoy entertainment under the shade of the Treasure State Tent just South of Food Row. Be amazed by the various high-energy acts all under one roof! Brought to you by ABC Fox Montana
TYZEN THE HYPONOTIST • W – Sa 1:30, 4:30, 7:30 | Su 2:30, 4:30
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to see the impossible? You will after seeing Tyzen. A hypnotist with a unique style, Tyzen has been described as “Wickedly Funny” by Harrah’s Casino and his show is known throughout North America as the most entertaining comedy hypnosis stage show available today. He’s performed for audiences across North America, leaving them all amazed at what he can do.
With a winning combination of comedy, hypnosis, and mind-bending magic, Tyzen is taking the entertainment world by storm. From dazzling audiences at casinos and fairs to mystifying cruise ship passengers, this talented performer is redefining the live entertainment experience one mesmerizing show at a time.”
PROFESSOR SMART
•
W- Sa 12:00, 3:30, 6:30 | Su 10:30, 11:30, 1:30
Professor Smart’s Science Show has been performed for hundreds of thousands of people all over the country.
“That was fun!” are the words most heard after his shows. Trained as a juggler and comedian, Todd Victor brings science to life with story telling and cool demonstrations. Accurate and funny, he uses many volunteers. Get ready to laugh and learn. Watch out, because things will be flying!
POWERHOUSE!!! • W-Sa 11:00, 2:30, 5:30 | Su 12:30, 3:30, 5:30 POWERHOUSE!!! combines innovative tap, precision clogging, Irish step dancing and stomp into an electrifying dance experience. Comprised of a diverse group of nationally recognized “percussive dance” performers, POWERHOUSE!!! is comedic and highly interactive!
HAYNES PAVILION: The Haynes Pavilion is the must stop location for families. There is so much interactive fun for kids of all ages and it’s in the shade!
BARNYARD RACES • W-Sa 11:30, 1:00, 2:30, 4:30, 7:00 | Su 10:00, 12:30, 2:00, 4:00
Their shows are fun, interactive and unique! They pick audience members to be cheerleaders: crowds are divided into color sections to root for animals wearing that color, all races are themed and fairgoers love to sing along! The bellringer is picked from the audience to start each race.
Shows are approximately 20 minutes long and each show has 4 to 5 sets of racing animals. They can race any combination of animals or just pigs or just ducks, etc.
AG DEMONSTRATIONS
• W-Sa 12:00, 3:30, 5:30, 6:00
Su 11:00, 12:00, 1:00, 3:00
Daily demonstrations offer a unique opportunity to witness traditional techniques and experience the charm of the past. With showcases including grain grinding and butter churning, they provide a variety of experiences that are sure to captivate. Your guests will be transported to another time through the magic of our demonstrations and learn something fun along the way.
PETTING ZOO • All Day during Fair Hours
The petting zoo is a fun and interactive experience for all ages. Come and meet the friendly farm animals, including goats, sheep, cows, donkeys, and more! Knowledgeable staff will be on hand to answer any questions attendees may have about the animals. Brought to your by Belgrade News
BIG SKY COUNTRY STATE FAIR
BIG SKY
COUNTRY FAIR SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
SHOWCASE YOUR Competitive Side
TThe Big Sky Country State Fair is now accepting entries for the various competitive exhibits categories taking place at the 2024 Fair. Compete in various divisions and classes to win cash prizes, ribbons, special Business Awards, and the People’s Choice Awards.
There are open class competitions in horticulture, photography,
creative fine arts, culinary, textile, and quilts with novice, intermediate and professional classes as well as many age groups so anyone and everyone has a place and is encouraged to compete.
Find the handbook with more information online at 406StateFair.com
All entries are due by Monday July 8th. Visit Exhibit Buildings 1 – 3 during the Fair to see these great creations.
THE Carnival
The Carnival opens daily at 1 pm and closes at 11 pm (except for Sunday, 6 pm closing).
All your favorite rides are back at the Fair! Check out the new configuration with the kids carnival pulled out on the lawn next to the Petting Zoo to help keep younger kids out of the hub bub of the big carnival.
2024 Ride List (height requirement)
*Subject to Change
SPECTACULARS:
Gondola Wheel (48”)
Mean Machine (36” – 52”)
Ring of Fire (42”)
Kamikaze (50”)
Frenzy (52”)
MAJORS:
Gravitron (48”)
Typhoon(48”)
Yo-Yo (42”)
Zipper (52”)
Tilt-A-Whirl (36”)
Hi-Roller (48”)
Spider (42”)
FUN FOR ALL:
Madi Gras (42”)
Raiders (42”)
Giants Slide (42”)
Loop-o-Plane (50”)
Bubba’s Funhouse (42”)
Oriental Express (48”)
KIDDIE:
Dizzy Dragons (36”)
Copter Command (36”)
Puppy Patrol (36”)
Truckin’ USA (36”)
ON-SITE PRICES
Carnival wristband: $35
Ride all day for one price. Includes all rides and are good for one day.
Single Coupon: $1
Book of 10 Coupons: $9
Most rides take at least three coupons; great for little ones who may burn out early.
The carnival is brought to you by our friends at THE EAGLE MONTANA’S SUPERSTATION!
Big Sky Country State Fair and North Star Amusements provide no refunds on pre-purchases regardless of weather or any condition. Riders and parents are responsible for choosing rides appropriate to the rider’s age.
MUD DRAG AND LAWN MOWER Races
A NEW LOOK TO MOTORSPORTS AT THE BIG SKY
COUNTRY STATE FAIR
There’s a new twist on your old favorite at the Fair. Head to the Freedom Four Wheel Motorsports Arena right by the new Biergarten on Saturday, July 20th for the adrenalinefueled Mud Drag Race and back again on Sunday, July 21st for the, first ever, lawn mower races!
For Mud Drag, the green flag will drop promptly at 12pm & 3pm on Saturday, July 20th! Experience the thrill of fast-paced action as racers go headto-head in a double elimination muddy showdown. Racers will go compete in two side-by-side pit tracks that are filled with a mud mixture, just soupy enough to create a serious splash and challenge any vehicle. Trucks and other off-road autos, modified by their owners, make an attempt to make it through the pit faster than their neighbor. With roaring engines and splattering mud, this family-friendly motorsports event promises non-stop excitement and entertainment. Competitive classes include stock, super stock, pro stock, modified, super modified, open, and X class. Don’t miss your chance to witness local racers compete for glory and prizes in a race like no other!
Lawn Mower Races start at 12pm on Sunday, July 21st! Get ready to witness lawnmowers transformed into high-speed machines as local racers compete for victory. With thrilling twists and turns on the track, this entertaining motorsports event promises fun for all ages. Cheer on your favorite racers as they navigate through muddy challenges and strive for the checkered flag. Competitive classes include stick speedsters, modified mowers, outlaws, and open class. Don’t miss out on the excitement and camaraderie of lawn mower racing - it’s an event you won’t forget!
BARNYARD BRAWL
#1 COMPETITION FOR ALL KIDS
This one is for the young bucks looking to get in on the rodeo action! There are three events for kids to participate in and the crowds to enjoy at the Big Sky Country State Fair. Kids from four to 19 years of age can jump right in on the fun with the Barnyard Brawl held on Sunday, July 21 1:30 – 3:00pm. Three “down on the farm” competitions include the Chicken Chase, Mutton Bustin’ and Calf Scramble.
For the youngest contestants, the Fair continues to have a second age division for the Chicken Chase. The Chicken Chase has been broken down into two age groups to give the little ones a good shot at catching a hen. The “Little Squirts” group (four to seven years) will compete for ribbons and a champion prize. “Pee Wees” (eight to ten years) compete for a champion prize. This event is “y’all come” – no registration is necessary and no entry fees apply to chicken chasers.
Returning to the Barnyard Brawl is the ever-popular Mutton Bustin’. A staple of rodeo, budding cowboys and cowgirls ride sheep as long as they can stay on. Judging is based on length of time ridden, difficulty, and of course, style. Kids under 55 pounds
and over four years of age are eligible for this event, and a prize is awarded to the winner. Entry is $15 per rider and can be registered and paid for in advance.
The Calf Scramble continues to be a huge hit for teenagers. Teams of four plan their best strategy to race down the arena, catch a calf, halter it, dress it with a t-shirt, and lead it back across the finish line. Two age groups compete in this hilarious calf-dressing escapade: intermediates (11-14 years) and seniors (15-19 years). Intermediates win ribbons and prizes; the senior winning team each win their own special prize. Entry is $50 per team of 4 and can be registered and paid for in advance.
To enter the Mutton Bustin’ or Calf Scramble, go online to 406StateFair.com and click on the Barnyard Brawl link; participation is limited per event and entry fees apply. Entries fill up fast; the entry deadline is Tuesday, July 16 at Noon, but contestants are encouraged not to wait.
Barnyard Brawl is hosted by the Valley View Rodeo.
Contestant check-in time will vary depending on the day and the event participated in. Visit 406StateFair.com for complete information. The event is free to Fair guests with their Fair admission.
GENERAL RULES FOR CALF SCRAMBLE
1. Teams of 4
2. Contestants in two age groups: Intermediates: Ages 11-14
Seniors: Ages 15-19
3. Teams must provide their own calf halter AND extra-large t-shirt for calf dressing.
4. Teams line up behind the starting line. At GO, teams race to end of arena and catch a calf. Must halter calf, then dress calf in t-shirt with both front legs through sleeve holes and head through neck hole. Teams then lead calf back across starting line.
5. First team across line wins.
6. Limit 10 team entries per age group.
GENERAL RULES FOR MUTTON BUSTIN’
1. Contestants weigh 55 pounds or less.
2. Contestants must be at least 4 years old.
3. Judged event. Ride scored on length of ride, difficulty of animal and riding style.
4. Contestants must wear boots or hard-toed shoes and helmet (bike riding helmet works good)
5. Sheep released from bucking chute with rider.
6. Limit 45 entries.
GENERAL RULES FOR CHICKEN CHASE
1. Contestants in two age groups:
Little Squirts Ages 4-7
Pee Wees Ages 8-10
2. Contestants gather behind starting line, five chickens let loose at the end of arena, at GO contestants race to catch a chicken.
3. No entry limit.
Good Luck To All Fair Participants!
BOZEMAN ROUNDUP RANCH RODEO
Bozeman’s beloved Roundup Ranch Rodeo has a long standing tradition of over 100 years. Up to ten teams will compete for a chance to win top money at one of the oldest sports in the West with $5,000 added.
A Ranch Rodeo is different from a professional or amateur rodeo such as PRCA or NRA because it’s a team sport with up to five people per team. The events are modeled directly from the working atmosphere on any of today’s ranches. Each team must contain a person of each gender and someone to ride a bronc.
The Bozeman Roundup includes a variety of hair-raising events including wild cow milking, sorting, branding, doctoring and trailer loading. In the wild cow milking, one contestant must rope a cow while teammates must wrangle and milk her. All teams compete at once, making for a particularly wild and entertaining event.
Trailer loading challenges teams to rope a steer, load him in the trailer, load two horses with him, and finish with all team members jumping in the pickup truck. Time stops when the truck doors close. The calamity is akin to ranchers having to rope a critter in the big open with no help from corrals, in order to take him back to the ranch.
Much like a PRCA rodeo, the Bozeman Roundup showcases bronc riding. The scoring is a bit different in ranch rodeo – contestants are judged on style, control, degree of difficulty and creativity. Some cowboys go all out with costumes, waving hats and other amusing charms during their ride.
Added in 2017 was the Hide Race. Two contestants at a time race from one end of the arena to the other dragging a cowhide. A cowboy risks his pride by being the hide rider. The rider must make it all the way to the barrel and back to qualify in this timed event. The hide race isn’t so much a replica of real work, as it is a show of ranch life fun.
The Bozeman Roundup will be held Saturday, July 20, stating at 7 p.m. The Entry fee is $500 per team with a limit of eight teams total. There will be 100% jackpot based on the total number of entered teams, with $5,000 added money. Sankey Pro Rodeo, based out of Joliet, MT, is the stock contractor and event producer.
Tickets are on sale now at 406statefair.
com. Tickets are $10 for a reserved seat in the grandstands (does not include gate admission) or free with gate admission for standing room only.
Frontline Ag Solutions is the presenting sponsor. Boot Barn is the Bronc Riding and Chute sponsor.
Horizon Credit Union is the Team Sorting sponsor. AM1450 is the media sponsor. This event is held in the Anderson Arena at Gallatin County Fairgrounds during the Fair. More information regarding rodeo rules, entry forms and Fair schedules may be found at 406StateFair.com or by calling 406-582-3270.
4-H FFA 2024 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
The Summer Fair and livestock animals go hand in hand. Head over to the First Security Bank Barns Wednesday – Saturday to view sheep, swine, beef and dairy cows, goats, rabbits, and poultry!
For the safety of guests and the animals, the Barn area has been rearranged to have only 2 entrances. Please be aware that these entrances close nightly at 9pm so that the animals can rest. The barns will also be closed on Sunday due to animal processor transport schedules.
Keep an eye out for our new animal fun fact posters at the barns to learn about these great animals and check out the schedule below to find a show in the Murdoch’s Show Ring under the Ag West Credit Services Tent.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 17TH
8:00am – 12:00pm Dairy Goat Show Small Animal Tent
8:00am – 12:30pm Swine Market Show AgWest Tent
10:00am – 5:00pm Poultry Breed Show Poultry Barn
1:30pm – 6:30pm ...... Beef Market Show ................................... AgWest Tent 6:30pm – 8:00pm Market Goat Show & Showmanship AgWest Tent
THURSDAY, JULY 18TH
8:00am – 10:30am Swine Showmanship AgWest Tent 11:00am – 2:00pm ... Beef Showmanship & Breeding Show ......... AgWest Tent 4:00pm – 5:30pm Pack Goat Show & Goat Costume Contest AgWest Tent
6:00pm – 8:00pm Sheep Showmanship & Breeding Show AgWest Tent
FRIDAY, JULY 19TH
8:30am – 11:00am ... Dairy Cattle Breed Show & Showmanship . AgWest Tent 4:00pm – 12:00am 4-H & FFA Livestock Market Sale AgWest Tent
SATURDAY, JULY 20TH
1:00 PM.......Round Robin Showmanship Competition ..Tents & Barns
These are real livestock animals – treat them with respect and give them space. If you are looking for the Petting Zoo, it’s in the Haynes Pavilion by A Gate
Be sure to wash your hands before and after you visit the barns. Sanitizer is available at barns and handwashing stations are available on Food Row
Also be sure to check out the 4-H indoor projects in Exhibit 3 from 11am-9pm. This is a great non-animal project and you can even bid on some of the items through a silent auction.
Dry Hills Distillery is Montana’s true farm to bottle distillery. Owned and operated by 6th generation Montana farmers from right here in the Big Sky Country that we are blessed to call home. Our family farms raise the potatoes and high-country grains that are used in our quality spirits. It’s through hard work and innovation that we offer spirits that have a character all their own, including our premium potato vodka, wheat vodka, wild raspberry vodka, new-released huckleberry vodka, gin and specially crafted whiskies.
Our family invites you to join us in our tasting room in Four Corners to enjoy a fun, family friendly environment. Follow us on social media (@dryhillsdistillery) to keep up with the fun events happening in the tasting room.
Dry Hills Distillery – We Grow-Good Times ®
MORNING
Back again this year is the Sensory Friendly Morning on Sunday, July 21st from 10 am to 1 pm.
We are opening the gates early, turning down the lights and volume to make the Big Sky Country State Fair more sensory-friendly in partnership with PeachTree Pediatric Therapy Center. The environment is created with the goal to enable families who have a member, whether a child or adult, with different needs to visit, explore, and enjoy the fair.
Exhibit Building 4 will be the only entrance for Sensory Friendly Morning and participates will be given story boards, maps, and goodie bags. Multiple of the Big Sky Country State Fair entertainers are putting on special performances during this time. Exhibit Building 4 will also have four quite areas for children and adults to enjoy.
For any questions about the Sensory Friendly Morning please call 406-582-3270.
FOOD ROW
It’s not an official trip to the Fair until you indulge in the amazing food on Food Row. Why not go back for seconds? Many of your old favorites are back like Blue Moose BBQ, Wende’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream, and Texas Twister, but there’s some new trucks on the row that you won’t want to miss like a brand new cajun and creole seafood truck! Also, this year, you’ll enjoy a new expanded layout with a new shaded seating area for your enjoyment.
People’s Choice voting will occur for “Best Meal”, “Best Drink”, and “Best Sweet Treat” so be sure to try a little bit of everything so you can cast the most informed vote possible. Scan the QR code at each booth or vote at 406statefair.com.
Lehrkinds is the official drink sponsor of the fair.
ADOBE FLATS CORN SHACK
Roasted Sweet Corn On The Cob, Baked Potatoes, Nacho Chips
OLD FASHION ROOT BEER
Old Fashioned Soda, Floats, Lemon Shake Up
BLESSED BEANS
Coffee, Breakfast Waffles - Open Early and Open all day!
BLUE MOOSE BBQ
Tri Tip Steak Sandwich or Wrap, Kids Meal, and Lemonade
BROWN GRINGO TACO
Tacos, Burritos Fries, Quesadillas, Rice Bowls
BUBBY’S CUPPA JO
In the Anderson Arena Concession for Concerts and Rodeo
THE CORNDOG COMPANY
1/4 Beef Corndog, 1/8 Beef Corndog Try it with the honey drizzle!
DONUT BROS
Mini Donuts, Snow Cones
FUNNEL OF LOVE
Funnel cakes, Elephant ears, and all kinds of Deep Fried Goodies like Oreos,Strawberries, Pickles and more
GIOVANNIS
Italian Sausage Sandwich, Sausage on a Stick, Cheesesteak, Steak Burger, Corn Dogs, and Chicken Tenders
HIGH PLAINS BOURBON CHICKEN SKEWERS
Bourbon Chicken Skewers, Pork Chops on a Stick, Jasmine Rice Bowl, and Steamed Vegetables
HUCKIN
Huckleberry Smoothie, Huckleberry Lemonade, Coffee, and Italian Sodas
ICEFIRE SNOWCONES
Shaved Ice, Licorice Ropes, and Trail Mix
GT’S GRILLED CHEESE
Assorted Grilled Cheeses
TEXAS TWISTER
A Fair favorite, “The Texas Twister” drink
JUST MY CONCESSIONS
Funnel Cakes and Lemonade
MILLER FARM
Pork Plate, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Bratwurst, Rib Dinner, and Pork Chop Dinner
QUALITY FOODS
INTERNATIONAL
Enjoy some Cajun and Creole
Seafood Grilled or Fried
SODA BOX
Gourmet Sodas, Lotus Energy Drinks
TASTE OF ASIA
Egg rolls, Pot Stickers, Noodles, and Fried Rice
UNICORN KETTLE
CORN
Kettle Corn
WENDE’S OLD
FASHION ICE
CREAM
Homemade Ice Cream
YOUNG LIFE
Dipping Dots
OUTDOOR MARKET
Astaple of any Fair is a fantastic collection of vendors filling the outdoor marketplace with a variety of merchandise, services, and goods. New this year, there will be vendors at both the A and B Gates. Don’t pass up these unique boutiques to purchase gifts, sweet treats, or even charge your phone at the T Mobile booth by the Biergarten. There’s plenty of options to explore, here are just a few suggestions to get you excited.
If you want Tasty Treats like gourmet jerky, English toffee, and pastries check out: Rickey’s Jerky, North Woods Confection, or Postres H&A (all by A Gate)
If you’re looking for Fair Favorites like face painting, caricature drawings, or glitter tattoos visit:
Caricatures by Corey, Fairy Fox, or Moku Party Airbrush (all by A Gate)
If you’re in need of the Perfect Gift stop by the many displays including Paloma Botanica, Lake Monster Montana Art, Uni’s Gifts (all by A Gate) Sticker City, Sassy Darling Boutique, Tacchino Hat (all by B Gate)
There’s so much more including tractors, atvs, massage guns, hot tubs, and solar panels. There truly is something for everybody at the Fair.
