Montana Delights: Exploring the Most Popular Fair Foods in the Big Sky State

Montana is known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures, but it also hosts vibrant fairs and festivals celebrating the state's culture and culinary delights. If you're anything like me, trying various foods at the fair each summer is a must! Do I generally eat way too much; yes. Is it worth it; you bet!

We could go on all day about the numerous options at the fair, but instead, I wanted to focus on a few of the Montana staples, some of which you may only find here in the Treasure State.

Huckleberry Ice Cream

Nothing says Montana quite like huckleberries. I mean, after all, it is our state fruit! Made with ripe huckleberries, this desert is a cool and creamy treat with a sweet and slightly tart flavor. Whether enjoyed in a cone or a cup, huckleberry ice cream is a must-try at Montana fairs.

Bison Burgers

Although relatively easy to track down outside of the fairs in Montana, you'll often find mouthwatering bison burgers sizzling on grills at your local fair. These lean and flavorful burgers offer a unique twist to the classic beef patty. To bring it full circle, try topping it with huckleberry BBQ sauce.

Indian Tacos

An iconic Native American-inspired dish, Indian tacos are a hit at Montana fairs. These hearty tacos feature a base of fry bread—deep-fried dough that's light and fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The fry bread is then topped with seasoned ground beef or bison, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and other garnishes. Indian tacos combine flavors and textures to create a satisfying and culturally rich fair food experience.

Fry Bread

Fry bread holds a special place in Native American cuisine, and it has become a beloved fair food in Montana. Made from a simple mixture of flour, water, salt, and baking powder, fry bread is stretched, flattened, and deep-fried until golden brown. Enjoy it plain, with powdered sugar, or as a base for toppings like honey, jam, or savory ingredients. The versatility and comforting taste of fry bread make it a crowd-pleaser at Montana fairs.

Montana Craft Beer

How about washing down all that delicious food with a cold local brew? With a thriving craft beer scene, the state offers various locally brewed beers. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, fairgoers can enjoy refreshing pints of Montana craft beer while savoring the delicious fair foods.

Montana's fairs showcase the state's rich cultural heritage and tantalize taste buds with an array of delightful treats. So, whether you're a local or a visitor, indulge in these Montana delights and savor the unique flavors that make fair season in the Big Sky State unforgettable.