Fair features night shows, family activities, critters & ride-induced jitters
The Big Sky Country State Fair returns to the Gallatin County Fairgrounds July 17th–21st for another round of food, fun, music, and so much more! Here’s a look at this year’s performers and some other highlights.
Popular country artist Jo Dee Messina is first to perform on Wednesday, July 17th. Jumpstarting her career, Messina’s breakout “Heads Carolina, Tails California” made her a household name. Following the success of her debut, she posted nine No. 1 hits, sixteen Top 40 songs, sold over five million albums worldwide, and was honored by the ACM Awards, CMA Awards, and GRAMMYs.
Resurrection – A Journey Tribute follows on Thursday, July 18th. Setting out to create the most authentic Journey experience anyone has ever witnessed, the Nashville-based group spent countless hours discussing the look, sound, production, and FEEL needed for this tribute to deliver a live experience that would resonate on the highest level with the most avid Journey fan.
On Friday, July 19th, The Cadillac Three take the stage. Also from Nashville, the high energy trio is known to fuse classic Southern rock with the sounds of outlaw country on songs like “Party Like You,” “White Lightning” and “The South,” which featured guest appearances by Dierks Bentley, Florida Georgia Line and Eli Young. Their latest full-length, Legacy, and new single “Crackin’ Cold Ones with the Boys” are available now.
All night shows are held in Anderson Arena. Main stage acts are included with fair admission. Special seating and ticket packages also available. The Pit Pass will be offered again this year at just $29. A limited number will be sold per show and the deal will include stage-side viewing, a private bartender, and private restroom facilities.
Also at the Fair, nightly live music by local bands on the Montana Treasure stage. Acts include the Kelly Nicholson Band on July 17th, www.TWANG on July 18th, Clost to Toast on July 19th, and Tsunami Funk on July 20th. All perform at 7pm and 9:30pm.
Celebrating its 100th Anniversary, the Bozeman Roundup Ranch Rodeo will take place Saturday, July 20th at Anderson Arena. Performances will kick off at 1pm and 7pm. The rodeo reflects today’s true working cowboy from the big open, with events packed full of excitement representing work done on the ranch: Wild Cow Milking, Team Branding, Trailer Loading, Team Sorting, Ranch Bronc Riding, Team Doctoring, and Hide Race.
Master hypnotist Tyzen brings his spectacular talents to the Fair with daily show times at 1:30pm, 4:30pm and 8pm on the Montana Treasure stage. Coupled with a generous dose of stand-up comedy, the hypnotist and magician’s shows are a unique, high octane experience for audiences of all ages. Tyzen is known for his diverse, spontaneous act described as a hypnotic show erupting into a rock concert-like event.
Kids and thrill-seekers: don’t forget the rides! The Carnival is open from 1–11pm daily (closing at 8pm on July 21st). North Star Amusements returns with super spectacular rides Vertigo and G-Force, kiddie rides, and traditional favorites. Single-day wristbands are $30 and grant entry to unlimited rides. Ride coupons are also available for $1 each or ten for $9.
Additional Fair highlights include Bugology, Extreme Dog Show, Freckle Farm Petting Zoo, Kids’ Pedal Tractor Pull, Farmer Phil Comedy Show, Extreme Motocross, Mud Bog, Barnyard Brawl, Wife Carrying Championship, Warrior Run, Agriculture in Montana: Critter Viewing, indoor and outdoor markets, competitive exhibits and workshops, local food and beverage vendors, plus so much more!
ALL grounds entertainment included with Fair admission. On-site admission is $12 for adults, $5 for youth 6–12, free for those 5 and under, and $8 for seniors 62+. Carnival wristbands and coupons sold separately. Packages and discounted advance tickets available through the Fair website. NEW for 2019, Sunday is ‘Heroes Day’ – free one-day use adult admission for all first responders, veterans and military personnel with valid ID. Visit www.406statefair.com for presale tickets, event hours, and additional information about all of this year’s festivities. The Big Sky Country State Fair is July 17th–21st at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds. •
