This week, we'll see you at the fair

Our favorite time of the year has arrived — which means the Northwest Montana Fair is back!

You can read all about it in today’s 16-page special section, as the Inter Lake begins a weeklong celebration of a tradition that dates back to the beginning of the 20th century.

Coincidentally, this year’s fair has the appropriate theme of “Celebrate Montana’s Best!” and that goes for the talent that goes into the exhibits, the hard work that goes into the fair all year round, and the fun that’s on the face of everyone in attendance.

Whether it’s the carnival, the rodeo, the country music concert featuring Dustin Lynch, the demolition derby, the contests, the fair food, the livestock exhibits or the free stuff at the commercial booths, there’s something for everyone at the fair.

We encourage you to take a look at the photo page on A3 in today’s paper, which revisits the fair from 50 years ago. The selection of images will prove that the only thing that’s changed in the last half century of fair-time fun is the fashions. Look for our continuing coverage throughout the next week, as we — and you — enjoy the best time of the year, and plan to stop by the Inter Lake booth to say hello and enter a drawing for a leaf blower or a subscription.