Sensory Sensitivity Day Returns To Big Sky Country State Fair For Fourth Year

The annual fair kicked off at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds on Wednesday, July 15th, as gates opened at noon. Festivities are scheduled to run until Saturday, July 18th. 

The fair first began in 1903. Now, in 2026, more than 120 years since its inception, the event has grown larger than ever with 22 different rides, and attractions that organizers say are meant for all people across Montana.  

Gallatin County Fairground Director Caitlin Quisenberry says the fair is hosting a sensory sensitivity day on Friday as part of the activities throughout the week. Quisenberry explained that the fair adjusts operations for sensory sensitivity day, for people who needed a quieter and lower-stimulation experience.  

“Fewer people, fewer sounds, fewer lights. The carnival does open early that day as well, and they move their rides a little slower, have less music. So just to make it so that a great community of ours can come enjoy the fair,” Quisenberry said.  

The sensory sensitivity day is in its fourth year at the fair.  

Officials say because of the positive response they’ve gotten from the Montana community about sensory sensitivity day since it first launched, they are already planning the event to continue in future years.