While most consider Montana an escape from the lively crowds and a quiet outdoor retreat, you may be surprised to learn that we not only have high-class music acts regularly traveling through the state, but that these mountains and skies make for some of the most incredible staging backdrops around. While we’d highly recommend doing a little searching for some of our more unique Montana venues, we’d also recommend checking into a music festival or two on your next pass through. The list grows every year, but these are some of the top festivals that annually grace the big sky!
Red Lodge Songwriter Festival
(JUNE)
The original Montana songwriter fest, this uniquely intimate event is held annually in beautiful Red Lodge. Started by local talent and Nashville songwriters, you’ll be amazed at the talent you find here. Plan on staying too, because the entire town RSVPs to the party.
Folk Fest - Butte
(JULY)
One of the coolest events you’ll ever attend, be sure to plan on making a Folk Fest visit. An annual event featuring acts from around the world, you never know what you will find here. Unique foods, local artists, and jam bands from who knows where grace this free event in uptown Butte with visitors from all over.
Under The Big Sky - Whitefish
(JULY)
A newer Montana event that exploded in popularity, be sure to look for tickets and lodging early or you’ll be left behind. Set with multiple stages and vendors at an amazing venue, this one is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for all involved.
Red Ants Pants - White Sulphur Springs
(JULY)
A favorite in the running, this event is held in a wide-open field surrounded by nothing but the stunning Montana mountains. Big skies and loud acts grace this stage every year with a campground worth visiting just for the party.
Bob Marshall Wilderness Music Fest - Seeley Lake
(AUGUST)
One of the more unique festivals you’ll attend right in the heart of Seeley. Visit for the music, party, and outdoors. Right next to the wild Bob Marshall Wilderness and the beautiful Seeley Lake, you’ll be camping and enjoying life in paradise.
Sweet Pea - Bozeman
(AUGUST)
Nearly 50 years of music, arts, and fun in Bozeman’s downtown park. Acts from across the states come through here with local vendors and artists lining the outskirts. This event is great for the family if you are looking for things to do in Bozeman and features sidewalk chalk art contests, runs, and more.
Magic City Blues - Billings
(AUGUST)
An annual blues fest that rocks the city. Incredible acts make their way through these stages in downtown Billings. Plan on spending the weekend, because it’s a couple of days before this party ends.
Big Sky Blues - Noxon
(AUGUST)
A smaller festival, but not to be missed, the annual Noxon Big Sky Blues Fest showcases talent both local and national in a beautiful outdoor setting. Featuring some great blues, they also gear the show towards jam sessions and teaching the kids a thing or two about music. Great fun for the whole family, don’t miss it on your next trip through!
Rockin’ The Rivers - Three Forks
(AUGUST)
The original Rock Fest to grace Montana, both the Country Jam and Rockin’ The Rivers are held on this beautiful plot of 140 acres. Join the party for camping and class acts during this three-day rockin’ event.
Headwaters Country Jam - Three Forks
(AUGUST)
The ever popular annual country jam right outside of Three Forks Montana, this three-day fest is one for the books with camping and an amazing lineup for country fans. It is a family event, but come prepared to party!
Wake the Giant - Helena
(AUGUST)
A new event in Helena created to benefit individuals with disabilities. Sponsored by Helena local businesses, the show features local acts and farm-themed goods and activities!
Summer Slam Fest - Bozeman
(AUGUST)
A free event hosted every year in downtown Bozeman filled with music, arts, and other live performances. Bring the family and explore the impressive local talent that Montana has to offer!
Wildlands Festival - Big Sky
(AUGUST)
A new event in Big Sky’s beautiful arena featuring an iconic backdrop and high-end lineups! Celebrate the wildlands and conservation with great music, food, and friends.
Lincoln Art & Music Festival
(AUGUST)
Lincoln, home to an ongoing incredible outdoor art exhibit, hosts their event every year to showcase local artists and musicians. Bring the family for food, fun, and more!
Whitefish Songwriter Fest
(SEPTEMBER)
Visit Whitefish during the annual three-day event and discover talented up-and-coming musicians, as well as well-known singers and songwriters from across the nation. An extension of the infamous Red Lodge Songwriter Festival, explore around town and find numerous acts in all the local venues throughout the day. The event culminates in one large showcase of talent on the last day of the festival.
