In Western Montana’s Glacier Country, rodeos are more than a summer tradition—they’re a celebration of the region’s ranching heritage and close-knit communities. During the summer, local rodeos bring together residents and visitors for competition, entertainment and a glimpse into a way of life that continues to shape the West.
The action unfolds with barrel racers, calf ropers and bronc riders demonstrating the talent, discipline and grit that have long been part of life in the West.
RODEO EVENTS
One of rodeo’s classic competitions, calf roping (also called tie-down roping) tests speed, precision and teamwork between horse and rider. Competitors rope a calf, dismount and quickly tie three of its legs, reflecting skills once used in everyday ranch work.
In barrel racing, riders guide their horses through a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels at top speed. Success depends on both quickness and control, making it one of rodeo’s most exciting events.
For many spectators, bronc riding steals the show. Riders must stay aboard a bucking horse for eight seconds while judges score both the rider’s performance and the horse’s action.
LIVESTOCK SHOWS
Many rodeos take place alongside livestock shows, where cattle, sheep, pigs and other animals are judged on breed characteristics and quality. These events often feature animals from local 4-H and FFA chapters—youth clubs that teach the next generation agricultural traditions.
COUNTY FAIRS
A rodeo is often paired with a county fair, like the four-day Sanders County Fair and PRCA Rodeo in Plains. Along with a rodeo and livestock show, this September event includes carnival rides, live music, demolition derby, exhibits and a parade.
RODEO EVENTS
- Brash Summer Series Rodeo, Columbia Falls, May – August
- Dutton Ranch Darby Xtreme Bareback Event, Darby, June
- Homesteader Days Rodeo, Hot Springs, June
- Mission Mountain NRA Rodeo, Polson, June
- Twisted Nut + Kids Rodeo, Darby, July
- Bigfork Montana Rodeo, July
- Eureka Rodeo, July
- Kootenai River Stampede PRCA Rodeo, Libby, July
- Mineral County Fair + Rodeo, Superior, July
- Wild West NRA Rodeo, Darby, July
- Darby Sho’ Down Barrel Race, Darby, August
- Ronan Pioneer Days Rodeo, Ronan, August
- Western Montana Fair + Missoula Stampede Rodeo, Missoula, August
- Northwest Montana Fair + Rodeo, Kalispell, August
- Lincoln County Fair + The Bull Thing, Eureka, August
- Darby Xtreme Bulls, August
- Ravalli County Fair + Rockin’ RC NRA Rodeo, Hamilton, August
- Sanders County Fair and PRCA Rodeo, Plains, September
- Broncs, Bulls & Barrels, Darby, September
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
Updated June 22, 2026
July 29, 2019
Related: Bigfork, Columbia Falls, Darby, Eureka, Events, Family Fun, Hamilton, Hot Springs (town), Kalispell, Libby, Missoula, Montana, Plains, Polson, Rodeos, Ronan, Summer Fun, Superior
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