If you are visiting Montana during the summer and plan on staying in a family-friendly hotel in Billings, MT, then you have picked one of the best times to visit this great state. This is because summer is when the state’s most significant event is held. That’s right; it is nearly time for MontanaFair! Every year the state fair brings almost a quarter of a million attendees to Billings. This year, the MontanaFair will take place from August 7th through the 15th. This is an event you won’t want to miss.The MontanaFair has everything that you would come to expect from a state fair. There are fun carnival rides such as the traditional Ferris Wheel as well as fun booths and games. Try your luck so you can win a prize! For the younger kids, there will also be a Kid’s World that includes free games and activities that are more age appropriate. If all the rides and games make you hungry, stop by one of the many vendors to choose from traditional fair foods such as BBQ, corn dogs, corn on the cob, as well as unique treats such as “Vikings On a Stick.” If you get thirsty be sure to try some of the fresh squeezed lemonade or head over to the beer gardens if you are 21 and over. It wouldn’t be a state fair without various competitions where contestants try for the coveted blue ribbon prize. Categories include best-brewed beer, wine, various arts, and crafts as well as livestock such as cattle, horses, sheep, pigs and more.Admission into the MontanaFair is only $8 for adults. For seniors 65+ and children 6-12, tickets are $5 and children 5, and younger get in for FREE. Friday, August 7th is the first day of the afar and the gates will open at 4 pm. Carnival rides are open from 6 pm-midnight. From Saturday, August 8th through Saturday, August 15th the fair begins at 12 pm and the carnival rides will be open from 12 pm-midnight. Food and shopping venues are open from 12 pm - 11 pm.