Top 5 most ‘Montana’ things seen at the fair

We’re a unique bunch in this state — a combination of modern America and old-west throwback with a dash of stubborn and a heaping spoonful of independence.

We do things our way, and at the fair, some things just scream “Montana.”

1. Teenage girls on a drizzly, 50-degree day wearing strapless sundresses with nary a shiver. Sporting cowboy boots instead of flip-flops is their only concession to the weather because we breed ’em tough around here.

2. A lady with an umbrella all to herself arm-in-arm with a man walking bareheaded through the rain with a smile on his face because manners, that’s why.

3. Couples two-stepping in the audience during the night shows like they’re in a local bar with a local band because Montanans don’t just stand around when good music is playing.

4. Little kids decked out in full cowboy clothes toddling down the midway because it’s not just an outfit — it’s how we live.

5. Ladies’ cheers filling the arena at Lee Brice’s mentions of football and beer because Montana men are the luckiest guys in the world.

What’s hot?

Tonight’s the night! The fair’s most anticipated concert, Dierks Bentley with special guest Tucker Beathard, starts at 9 p.m. Get there early and be ready for a great show.

Over in the grandstands, the Big Sky Pro Rodeo Roundup presents Family Night. Get a coupon at Stockman Bank, go to the Four Seasons box office, and buy the Family Night package. Just $75 gets your crew four tickets to the rodeo, four $5 food coupons, and two carnival vouchers--so make a day of it!