There is something subtle in the way that rodeos help define Montana towns and cities. Certainly, if you were to ask any local in the region of the state’s capital Helena about any main events for summer they would most likely point you in the direction of one of the rodeos or fairs across the state.
Even more likely is the preferred local event, and in this case, the major summer happening in Helena is the Last Chance Stampede and Fair. The rodeo that comes with the fair presents world-class stock, not to mention the award-winning production and entertainment of the Last Chance Stampede.
The Lewis & Clark County Fairgrounds is the venue for 3 days over the last weekend of July. Once the event kicks off spectators can enjoy three nights of Pro Rodeo alongside the carnival proceedings and exhibits.
Northstar Carnival provides the entertainment lineup with close to 20 carnival rides, games, activities, and concessions. The Exhibit Halls contain a variety of community displays and local projects inspired by the region’s agricultural roots.
Last Chance Stampede and Fair is host to hordes of visitors every year, whether they come for the rodeo, the carnival rides and games, or the concerts. Visitors rarely go home disappointed by what they see and hear, and the 4-H exhibits and animals alone attract thousands of people from across the world.
The stock for the rodeo is provided by the world-renowned but local Kessler Championship Rodeo.
Last Chance Stampede Stats
- Lewis & Clark County Fairgrounds
- Cool Alley Arena
- July 28-30
- Website
Main Attractions
The carnival, the exhibits, the sights, and the atmosphere all draw the crowds. But the real star of the show is always going to be the rodeo as far as most attendees are concerned.
The rodeo usually kicks off with something exciting like the Bronco Riding before continuing with various other activities, events, and competitions such as team roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing, and bull riding—just to name a few.
A great crowd is usually in attendance at the Cool Alley Arena on Friday night. What better way to top off a great family day at the fair than with a spot of roping, racing, and bronco riding?!
Of course, no rodeo is ever complete without a few daredevil stunt performances and maybe a rodeo clown or two. Possibly even more important than the clowns though is the announcer, who usually turns out to be a previous PRCA Rodeo Announcer of the Year.
Northstar Carnival complements the proceedings perfectly every year with a plethora of rides, games, and concessions. After the excitement in the arena that is typical of Fridays, Saturday features a stampede parade through downtown Helena as well as a live auction among other things.
The fair is a great opportunity to indulge in some traditional fair food, and what you’ll find at the Last Chance Stampede will be along the lines of soft-serve vanilla ice cream, old-fashioned sodas, steak sandwiches, wood-fired pizza, kettle corn, and plenty of other treats.
There are usually more than 45 commercial and 25 food vendors in attendance at the event, so everyone will find something they love. Pull on your boots and dust off your cowboy hat!
Getting around at the Fair
The main arena at the north end of the fairgrounds is in between the parking lots, and you can wander from the food vendors to other commercial vendors and the exhibits nearby quite easily.
Everything is situated close enough together to make it a nice day wandering around on foot.
The 4-H exhibits including restrooms are nearby, and getting to the carnival and children’s area is within range. Here the kids will likely find such delights as a petting zoo with a barn and dog arena.
The event is easy enough to get around for able-bodied individuals. Anyone with mobility issues should contact the fairgrounds prior to visiting for assistance.
Costs and Pricing for the Fair and Events
Tickets to get into the fair are really cheap although they may vary from year to year. They are typically in the range of $5.00 per person in terms of basic admission. I
If you want to catch the rodeo or one of the concerts though, it will cost quite a bit more, as the rodeo tickets can be between $20.00 and $30.00 and concert tickets even higher and closer to $40.00-$50.00, depending on the artist.
One positive change this year has been no admission or parking fees to come on the grounds.
The Last Chance Stampede and Fair is Helena’s largest community event, and there’s something here for everybody. Whether you’re coming to ride the rides, the animals, or the rodeo—there really is something for everybody here.