Summer has returned to the Gallatin Valley and so has the outdoor fun! The Big Sky Country State Fair will return to the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, Monday, July 17th through Sunday, July 23rd for another round of food, fun, music, and so much more! Here’s a look at some of the main stage acts during the 2017 event. Funny man Chad Prather kicks off the evening on Thursday, July 20th at 8pm. Thanks to a viewer insulting his southern accent, the Texan became an overnight sensation on his popular YouTube channel. The video, “Unapologetically Southern,” quickly went viral. Since then, Prather’s Facebook following has been extraordinary with appearances to follow on Fox & Friends, the National Finals Rodeo, and several magazine covers. Prather publishes short bits on Facebook, in his best American cowboy nature, famously ending each with a “Facebook poke.”
Following Prather’s opening number, Ned LeDoux takes the stage. With the last name LeDoux, Ned doesn’t mind one bit playing his famous father’s music while introducing his obvious genetic-born talent. This evening is dedicated to the true rancher’s rancher, pure country, and a bit of reminiscing the good ol’ days with Garth, Chris, and company — not to mention being the first fans to hear the outstanding new vocals by Ned LeDoux. Washington-based country artist Dylan Jakobsen will open up the evening on Friday, July 21st at 8pm. Those who have witnessed the bearded Seattle native live can testify to the energy and raw emotion he pours onto the stage every night. Alongside a rich voice with gritty undertones, melodic harmonica solos top a country-driven rhythm and only add to the dynamic performer’s finesse, bringing a show you don’t want to miss. Jakobsen released his debut album, From Where I Began, in 2016.
A thrill to bring to Big Sky Country State Fair, the Eli Young Band will follow Jakobsen’s opening set. The band has become a mainstay on the Billboard country charts, with three singles going all the way to #1 — the wildly popular “Crazy Girl” in 2011, along with “Even If It Breaks Your Heart” and “Drunk Last Night.” The Eli Young Band’s new album, Fingerprints, is set for release on June 16th featuring the incredible song “Saltwater Gospel,” already a digital sensation. Main stage acts are free with fair admission.
Tickets to the Big Sky Country State Fair are $8 for adults 13 and up, $3 for youth 6–12, free for those 5 and under, and $6 for seniors 62+. Visit www.406statefair.com for additional information on this year’s festivities. •