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Attendance numbers were up 15 percent from 2022 at the Big Sky Country State Fair. Courtesy photo
Final attendance numbers are in from the annual Big Sky Country State Fair held in Bozeman on July 19 to 23.
The regional attraction drew 46,513 people; numbers were up 15% from 2022 despite the heat on Friday to Sunday. Food Row and Carnival sales held strong in 2023 with an increase in Food Row over 10% and Carnival saw a record-breaking day on Saturday. Before the heat came, the Big Sky Country State Fair had a record-breaking opening day with 10,193 people and another record-breaking Thursday with 7,517 people. 4-H Market Sale also had a strong showing and was up from 2022.
"2023 was another amazing Fair," said Caitlin Quisenberry, Director of the Gallatin County Fairgrounds.
The three-day concert series proved to be a huge success with selling out Flo Rida on Wednesday night and Billy Currington on Friday night. Over 11,359 people attended the three nights of concerts at the Fair. That was a 142% increase in attendance from 2022. Competitive Exhibits also had a strong showing during the 2023 fair having 937 entries up from 2022.
The longstanding Ranch Rodeo Roundup sold out the grandstands and was packed around the arena. There were seven teams that competed from across Montana with the S Ranch winning from Xavier, MT. "We had some real standout acts like the Sea Lions and John Cassidy the magician as well as vendors on Food Row who really contributed to the overall vibrancy and success of the Fair" said Quisenberry. Other events such as the Monsters of Destruction, Sea Lion Splash, Canine Stars, Fearless Flores Family Thrill Show, Chicago Honey Bear Dancers, and 4-H Shows all had full crowds throughout the week.
"I had the pleasure of talking to several guests who said that going to the fair was a must-do event every summer," said Quisenberry.
Quisenberry felt honored to be a part of people's lives to that extent and looks forward to seeing everyone again next year. The 2024 Big Sky Country State Fair will be held July 17 to 21, 2024 For more info, visit gallatincountyfairgrounds.com.
