Fair reports higher numbers across the board

The 108th annual Northwest Montana Fair recorded 78,508 people attending events and exhibits at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Aug. 17-21. Attendance was about 4 percent higher than last year.

Nearly 8,500 exhibits were entered in the 4-H, FFA and Open Class competitions, the highest number of entries received in recent years, and gross sales at the market livestock sale topped last year by more than $29,000.

"While numbers are important to track our progress and established goals, a successful event is also comprised of many intangible factors," fairgrounds manager Mark Campbell said. "Enjoyment, education, safety and a community coming together. We believe this year's fair exceeded in these areas."

The fair's two concerts saw higher attendance than last year's concert. Newsboys attracted 1,558 fans, and Little Big Town set a Northwest Montana Fair concert attendance record with 2,952 fans. Lower ticket prices and quality performers could explain the higher attendance, Campbell said.

Nearly 12,000 people attended the Ram PRCA Rodeo, a 21 percent increase over last year, and the Inland Empire Shows Carnival saw a 13 percent increase in ridership.