Symphony performances under the Big Sky, local artisan goods galore and the best sweet potato sticky buns around — do you really need another reason to visit Northwest Montana? If so, your chance to see the Flathead community come alive is just that. Summertime in Kalispell entails more than hiking in fields of lupine in Glacier National Park and sailing the crystalline waters of Flathead Lake. It’s a season full of energy, starting with musical magic.
Bigfork Summer Playhouse: May 19 – September 9
Five rotating shows (www.discoverkalispell.com/bigfork-summer-playhouse) define the Theatre by the Bay’s 58th season of musical theater. With stars from across the country, this live professional theatre creates a memorable evening after a day of exploring Kalispell’s outdoor wonders.
Taste of Kalispell: June 22
From bison sliders to huckleberry mojitos, the edible bounty that makes the Flathead special is showcased at this historic downtown event. Join the community and spend a beautiful June evening listening to live music with everything else you need to enjoy it right at your fingertips.
Symphony Pops at Rebecca Farm: July 7 & 8
Where else would you hear contemporary and classical music while relaxing on the rolling lawns of a world-class equestrian facility? Just like at a drive-in theater—only better (including better picnics)—you sit back and relax and eat… and dance if you choose. The Glacier Symphony Orchestra will take care of filling the summer evening breeze with music.
Arts in the Park: July 14 – 16
The arts, crafts and music festival presented by the Hockaday Museum of Art enters its 49th year. Explore the works of more than 100 local and visiting artists and craftsmen—perhaps with a treat from one of the food and beverage vendors in your hand.
The Event at Rebecca Farm: July 20 – 23
Come watch the largest equestrian eventing competition in the U.S. With dressage, cross-country and show jumping, this event celebrates the harmony and partnership between horse and rider. Watching the family-friendly event puts you right in the middle of all the action. But remember, horses always have the right of way (http://www.discoverkalispell.com/event-rebecca-farm/).
Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo: August 16 – 20
A summer in Montana isn’t complete without a rodeo. Kalispell’s heritage and culture are on display with three nights of rodeo action, huge concerts, carnival rides, a livestock show and fantastic fair food. Don’t miss the thousands of exhibits showcasing the interests, talents and passions of the locals, from floriculture to miniature horses.
Montana Dragon Boat Festival: September 9 & 10
Teams from across the U.S. and Canada race in 46-foot-long Hong Kong-style boats on Flathead Lake for this unique competition. This year the competition promises to be extra lively with an inaugural elite division—top dragon boat teams will compete for the title of Rocky Mountain Dragon Boat Champion.
Visit http://www.discoverkalispell.com/events-listing/ to learn more about Kalispell’s summer celebrations and to view lodging specials.
