It’s always festival time in Big Sky Country! We love to celebrate our seasons, our heritage, and our wonderful culture and rich history. But these aren't just any 'ole run-of-the-mill annual events in Montana. Full of excitement and quirkiness, these 12 unique festivals in Montana should be slated on your calendar at least once. But after you attend one, we bet you'll hit a bunch every year!
The Sweet Pea Festival is a three-day event that is held the first weekend of August. With a children’s parade, Shakespeare in the Park, Chalk Walk, and many other forms of entertainment and food, there’s something for everyone at Sweet Pea.
Editor’s Note: After 35 successful years, Testy Festy has shuttered its doors. Too bad because it was one of the largest and most popular festivals in Montana. But don’t worry, there’s plenty more to do in the town of Clinton.
Cherry pie, cherry cooking contests, local vendors… this July festival in the beautiful town of Polson is fun for the whole family. It is not only oh-so-tasty but one of the best festivals in Montana too!
The World Famous Miles City Bucking Horse Sale is old-school, Wild West Montana at its finest. Held the third full weekend in May each year in the town of Miles City, this annual event is one of the most well-known Montana festivals. Bucking horse riding, bull riding, and other rodeo events are all part of the fun here.
Editor’s Note: After 16 successful years, the Evel Knievel Days Festival in Butte has made its final ride. The event celebrated the legendary career of hometown hero Evel Knievel and the mark he made in the motorcycle stunt riding world. However, if you're looking for other great things to do in Butte, check out some of its historic landmarks.
Huckleberries grow wild in some Montana regions, and for over 30 years, the Trout Creek Huckleberry Festival has celebrated this delicious fruit every August. A true Montana tradition, this is a festival not to be missed!
The annual Winter Carnival in the town of Red Lodge is full of fun and excitement. Held in March there is a torch light parade, fun costumes, fireworks, and other carnival-themed events.
Ranked by National Geographic as one of the world’s Top 10 Winter Carnivals this festival celebrates Ullr, the snow god, and his court. Held in Whitefish, the Whitefish Winter Carnival is definitely one of the best festivals in Montana. Food, entertainment, an amazing fireworks display, and lots of shenanigans are all a part of the annual fun.
advertisement
9. Battle of the Little Bighorn Reenactment, Hardin
Almost 140 years ago, "Custer's Last Stand" became a historic event in our nation. This June festival in the town of Hardin commemorates this important yet sobering anniversary of the encampment of the Sioux Nation Native Americans along the banks of the Little Bighorn River where the famous Sitting Bull had placed his tribe’s camp. The annual reenactment is one of the most important historic traditions in Montana and is attended by thousands of people from across the state.
Held in June at Gibson Park in Great Falls, this festival is an opportunity to relive history through the pages of the daily journals Lewis and Clark kept, which are shared with visitors through presentations, ceremonies, exhibits, and events.
Held in Butte, this free music festival comes to town every July. Celebrating the unique culture of folk music, the 3-day festival also encompasses delicious ethnic and festival foods, folklife demonstrations, a family fun area, workshops, and more that celebrate Montana’s unique heritage.
12. Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering & Western Music Rendezvous, Lewistown
A four-day Montana cowboy poetry gathering in August is as fun as it sounds. Between the music, poems, and the Western Art & Gear Show, it’s worth making the trip to the beautiful town of Lewistown to experience it all. As festivals go, it is one of the most unique festivals in Montana.
advertisement
Have you attended any of these Montana festivals? Which ones were your favorites? Would you agree that they are among the best festivals in Montana? We'd love to see your photos and hear about your experiences.
If you're looking for other cool things to do in Big Sky Country, there are lots of activities that are free!
While out and about, you may want to stay a few nights to lengthen your journey. If in Bozeman, consider the beautiful Element Bozeman Hotel.
If you’re still in the mood for more Big Sky adventures, take a look at this video:
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
advertisement
Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
advertisement
If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
While it's always a bit difficult to say goodbye to a fabulous summer in Montana, the promise of a beautiful fall always makes it easier. From river dips to warm-weather hikes, I tend to appreciate when the season heads out slowly so I can do a few more fun things outside. However, I do need to remind myself that there's still plenty to do outside when the season changes. And, the best fall festivals in Montana certainly offer a great way to celebrate this. So, pull out your calendar and start planning the rest of the season with some of these (and lots of other) fun events:
advertisement
1. Kootenai Harvest Festival, Libby, MT - September 14, 2024
The festivities for the 10th annual Kootenai Harvest Festival take place at Riverfront Park Pavilion on the edge of the Kootenai River. Each year attendees of this event enjoy live music all day, along with the chance to shop local vendors and enjoy a locally sourced Harvest Meal. There's quite a bit for kids to enjoy as well so be sure to show up early and plan on staying late. You can learn more at the Libby Chamber of Commerce website or the official Kootenai Harvest Festival Facebook page. This is certainly one of the best fall festivals near Kalispell.
2. The Great Northwest Oktoberfest, Whitefish - September 26-28 and October 3-5, 2024
Head to downtown Whitefish for one of the most fun events of the year. Held under the big top downtown, you'll find both local beer and German beer options. There's also plenty of German food and lots of live music. Those who want to get into the competitive spirit will appreciate contests like keg throwing, stein holding, brat eating, and log sawing. Learn more and start planning how to attend by checking out the Whitefish Oktoberfest website.
3. The 2024 Montana Brewers Fall Rendezvous, Missoula - September 29, 2024
One part fall and one part brews, this fun annual festival allows you to mix both. Held by the Montana Brewers Association, attendees will enjoy Montana-made craft beer, live music, and great food. Tickets will also give you a free glass for tasting. You can enter as a VIP or as a General Admission attendee. More information and tickets can be found at the Montana Brewers website. Fun fact: I consider this the best fall festival near me!
advertisement
4. Townsend Fall Fest, Townsend - October 4-6, 2024
The tiny town of Townsend has a population of less than 2,000 people, but that doesn't make it any less fun when it comes time for the Townsend Fall Festival. There's a lot to love about this festival, including a hay sculpture contest, beer and brats, and a classic car show. There's even live music and fun games for kids. Check out the official Townsend Fall Fest website for a complete schedule. You can also follow the Townsend Fall Fest Facebook page. This is one of the best fall festivals near Bozeman.
Celebrating Missoula's sister city of Neckargemünd, this fun event includes all things Germany. Attendees will love the traditional German food, beer, and folk dancing. There's also live music and keg tapping. Be ready to leave with a commemorative stein. And, believe it or not, there are lots of kids' activities during the event, too. Learn more by following ARTS Missoula on Facebook or checking out the Germanfest page on the ARTS Missoula website.
advertisement
Have you been to any of the best fall festivals in Montana? If so, let us know your favorite! And, if you have any good tips or tricks for making the most of each one, we'd love to hear them. Otherwise, what are some of your favorite Montana fall festivals? And in general, how do you like to spend fall in Montana?
And, if you're not quite ready to take off summer hiking boots there's still plenty of time to get outside. Consider checking out the autumn hike to Morrell Falls at the base of the Swan Mountain Range. And, before you head out, check out the ultimate hiking packing list.
Thinking about taking a Big Sky vacay soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club.
