How Missoula Prepares for Back-to-School Season

As August arrives and the Western Montana Fair rolls into town, Missoula families begin shifting gears from summer break to school routines, often with a few tried-and-true traditions that keep coming back year after year.

Some of these traditions may feel familiar to anyone who remembers posing on the porch for a “first day of school” photo. Or they might bring back memories of getting the "first day of school outfit" ready for hours the night before. Today’s kids still carry on the photo tradition, often holding handmade signs marking the grade and date. It’s a small but meaningful way to mark time, just like our parents did with a Polaroid or film camera back in the day.

Making the Most of the Final Days of Summer

End-of-summer campouts and backyard bonfires are another staple. Families gather to roast marshmallows, swap stories, and soak up the last warm nights before the pace of fall sports picks up. These evenings on the Blackfoot or Clark Fork River offer a chance to reflect and reconnect before diving back into busy schedules.

Many households share a back-to-school dinner the night before classes begin where kids help choose the menu and parents sneak in a few reminders about morning routines. New backpacks get packed after dessert or a trip to Dig Dipper. Others opt for a special breakfast on the first day, maybe pancakes shaped like hearts, or some eggs and toast with a little extra pepper.

Traditions for Teens and Adults Too

Older students tend to spend this time catching up with friends, setting personal goals, or making the most of one last lap around the fairgrounds before the school year hits full speed.

Some people with kids who don’t attend school anymore or sans children, might enjoy the office supplies on sale or taking themselves out for a quiet dinner. These traditions simply offer a moment alone to re-group before fall schedules fill up.

Whether it’s a walk on a favorite trail, one more river dip, or a quiet moment around the dinner table, these simple traditions can help ease the transition, blending the comfort of routine with the excitement of a fresh start to a new school year.

If you don't have a favorite back to school tradition, but would like to start one: We have a list for you to try:

10 Back-to-School Traditions for Missoula Families

First Day of School Photo on the Front Porch
A yearly snapshot marking the start of a new grade, often with a dated sign.
Shopping for the “First Day Outfit”
Choosing new clothes or wearing a favorite item to feel confident on the first day.
Backyard Bonfire or End-of-Summer Campout
A final summer night under the stars, with stories, s’mores, and family time.
Back-to-School Dinner the Night Before
A favorite meal where kids help plan the menu
Special First-Day Breakfast
Pancakes shaped like letters or favorite shapes served with extra whipped cream!
Writing Down Goals or Intentions
A quiet moment to reflect on the year ahead and set personal goals.
A Day at the Western Montana Fair
For many local teens, it’s the unofficial last hurrah before school starts.
Packing the Backpack Together
Organizing supplies, checking the list, and making sure everything’s ready to go.
One Last Summer Hike or Bike Ride
Time outdoors on local trails or near the river to say goodbye to summer.
Creating a “Last Song of Summer” Playlist
Pick a few meaningful tracks to send off the season.