BEHIND THE SCENES

HOW THE SHOW GOT ITS START

THE LAKE FAMILY

THE BRUBAKER FAMILY

The Montana Royal Junior Livestock show got its start in 2010 by Brooke Johnston as the Birch Creek Junior Livestock Show. Brooke hosted the event on her ranch until 2012 when the location was moved to the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell, MT. In early 2013, Brooke wanted to breathe new life into the show and decided to pass the torch.

In 2013, the Birch Creek Junior Livestock Show became the Flathead Agape’ Classic. Kevin & Inga Lake and business partner Julie Brubaker saw an opportunity to build on what Brooke had created—and they ran with it. Agape’ Home Care, Inc., Kevin, Inga, and Julie’s business, became the inaugural title sponsor in 2013 and has been supporters ever since.

From 2013 to 2015, participation in the Flathead Agape’ Classic grew exponentially with beef, lambs and hogs showmen traveling all across Montana to participate. The Lakes and Brubakers were aware of the growing jackpot trend in the show world and saw an opportunity to create a premier livestock event for youth. In 2016, the Flathead Agape’ Classic transformed and the Montana Royal Junior Livestock Show was born. The Lakes and Brubakers had the vision to create an educational livestock event in Northwest Montana, and the team began recruiting exhibitors and sponsorship from across the United States.

The Montana Royal is sanctioned with the Beyond the Ring Junior Livestock Association and the 509 Show Circuit, creating the opportunity for exhibitors to earn points. If you aren’t a member already, make sure to check out these two amazing youth organizations!

The Montana Royal is historically held on the second weekend in July at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in beautiful Kalispell, MT. We are so thankful for the partnership with our local fairgrounds and sponsors.

We hope to see you at the 2022 Montana Royal!