BE A PERFORMER
Now accepting applications for musical acts to perform during the evening entertainment lineup at the 2026 Western Montana Fair!
We are seeking energetic, family-friendly bands capable of creating a vibrant, dance-ready atmosphere for thousands of fairgoers.
90-minute sets required. Professional sound and technical support provided.
Apply by March 27th, 2026!
Band Application Information
The Western Montana Fair is now accepting applications from bands interested in performing during evening entertainment at the fair. We’re seeking energetic, family-friendly groups that can carry the excitement in conjunction with and beyond the rodeo to create a vibrant, dance-ready atmosphere for fairgoers of all ages.
All genres are welcome, provided the performance is lively and family-friendly. Bands should be comfortable performing for a large (hundreds), diverse audience and delivering a full 90-minute set.
There will be two bands each night of the fair: Friday, July 31st through Saturday, August 8th. The fair will be closed on Monday, August 3rd.
The first set starts at 6:00pm followed by a ~30 minute scheduled set change. The second set will begin around 8:15pm. This is all weather permitting.
The Fairgrounds will provide professional sound amplification and technical support.
Please note: This application is for full bands only. Solo artists and individual instrumentalists are encouraged to apply through the Historic Plaza application.
Selection Process
Bands will be selected by a committee comprised of Fair Event Committee members and Fair Staff. Selection will be based on musical quality, stage presence, community connection, and budget considerations.
By submitting an application, bands grant the Missoula County Fairgrounds and its representatives permission to use submitted information, photos, and video for promotional and commercial purposes. Submission of an application does not guarantee selection.
Performance & Participation Requirements
· Band representatives must respond to Fair staff in a timely manner.
· Bands are responsible for providing their own instruments.
· All music must be family-friendly (no profanity, explicit lyrics, or adult themes).
Now Accepting Individual/Duo Performer Applications for the 2026 Historic Plaza at the Western Montana Fair!
Emerging talents and community members with unique skills are invited to apply for the Historic Plaza opportunities at the Western Montana Fair. This venue provides a platform to share knowledge, entertain, or demonstrate a skill in front of a live audience.
Please note that community showcase performances and demonstrations are unpaid. Individuals will be given food bucks and a parking pass for the fair.
Each performance slot is 45 minutes long. Groups are encouraged to use this time creatively, whether for different sets and self promotion breaks. Sound amplification and technical assistance will be provided by the fair. Submitting an application does not guarantee a performance slot. Applications will be reviewed, and selected acts will be contacted by a representative from the Missoula County Fairgrounds.
All performances and demonstrations must be family friendly.
Apply by April 3rd, 2026!
Questions?
Contact Becca Steffen, Community Programming and Outreach Specialist, rsteffen@missoulacounty.us or 406.258.3280