Ep. 61 – Flathead County Fairgrounds & the NWMT Fair

This episode of the Venture Boldly podcast takes listeners behind the scenes of the Flathead County Fairgrounds—an iconic 60-acre hub in Kalispell that hosts over 750 events and draws more than 250,000 visitors each year. While many know it as home to the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo, the fairgrounds serve as a year-round space for community, culture, and connection.

Fairgrounds Manager Sam Nunnally and Event Sponsorship Coordinator Kelsey Hansberry share how their personal ties to the Flathead Valley shape their vision for the fairgrounds’ future. From major facility upgrades to securing top-tier entertainment like Joan Jett and Scotty McCreery, their team is focused on preserving tradition while driving meaningful growth.

Listeners will hear about the fairgrounds’ impact on youth development through 4-H and agriculture, as well as long-term plans for milestone celebrations in 2026 and 2027. With new rodeo partnerships and a dedicated preservation foundation, the fairgrounds continue to evolve while staying rooted in community values.

Links:

Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo - Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo

Fair contests: Contests - Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo

Schedule of Events: Schedule of Events - Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo

Fairgrounds facility rental: Fairgrounds Facilities and Rentals | Flathead County, MT

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