As August brings another beautiful Montana summer to a close, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the things we have yet to do; Bozeman has so much to offer, and three months hardly seems like enough time to squeeze everything in. Visitors and locals alike have the perfect opportunity to enjoy the abundance of summer fun available throughout the month here in Gallatin Valley, and we at Bozeman Magazine are here to help you organize it all. The valley’s largest event calendar can be found at the back of this magazine and on our website, bozemanmagazine.com. You’ll find something for everyone — everything from rodeos to farmers markets, specialized classes, music and dancing, and much more. Some of the most popular August events in Bozeman center around stunning art, incredible music, and delicious food, some examples of which are highlighted below, so you can make sure you don’t miss the perfect activity for you and your family.


SWEET PEA
The annual Sweet Pea Festival of the Arts is a staple of every Bozeman summer, usually attracting around 15,000 attendees. This three-day celebration August 2nd, 3rd and 4th at Lindley Park features the original creations of artists, flower shows, a parade, music, dance and theater performances, and the Artist Marketplace, where you can buy the work of vendors straight from the creators themselves. There are engaging children’s activities to keep the kids busy while the adults enjoy the beer and wine garden, featuring Montana microbrews. Celebrating its 47th year in business, guests can count on the high quality of fun the Sweet Pea Festival has provided for decades. Grab a weekend pass and the whole family, and make unique memories that will last a lifetime! To learn more about the festival, visit www.sweet pea festival.org.

SLAM
Called “...a guaranteed feast for the eyes, ears and belly” by renowned local artist DJ House, the SLAM summer festival is a free two-day celebration showcasing the very best of Bozeman. From a diversely delectable food truck court to live music and exhibitions, SLAM is a highly anticipated event for locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some food and drink from the food court and beer garden, buy from local artists’ shops, bid on the silent auction, enjoy the live music and performances, create your own art from live artist demonstrations, and participate in family activities for the perfectly inexpensive weekend. SLAM is scheduled for the 3rd and 4th of August in Bogert Park; make sure you don’t miss out on the fun! For more information on the festival, visit https://www.slamfestivals.org/summer-festival.html.


Bridger Brewing Bozeman
Perfect for fans of craft beer, award-winning pizza, and live music, Pinky and the Floyd returns to Bridger Brewing’s Bozeman location (1609 S. 11th Ave) for a Back-to-School Block Party Celebration... And this time they’re bringing some friends!! Opening the show (and joining forces for a number of tunes) will be Bozeman favorite, “Dead Sky” - premier Grateful Dead Tribute Band. The concert will also be featuring an event exclusive beer called the “Pink Sky” IPA. Don’t miss your chance to see 2 incredible bands and 4+ hours of classic music in the front parking lot of Bridger Brewing in Bozeman! Check Bridger Brewing’s event schedule to be sure you don’t miss stuff! Find the schedule here, www.bridgerbrewing.com/events.

Music on Main
A Bozeman tradition for 24 years, Music on Main is the perfect way to enjoy live music and all the fun of Downtown Bozeman in one event. Every Thursday evening from July 11th to August 15th, come to Main Street between Rouse and Black Avenues to listen to incredible music and enjoy mouthwatering food from a variety of food truck vendors. Starting off the month on August 1st is Montana band North Fork Crossing, which describes its sound as a blend of bluegrass, rock, Americana, and folk. Following this beloved local group on the 8th is touring band, Float Like a Buffalo. Join their herd of high energy funk, ska, reggae, and rock mix lovers for an unforgettable performance. Ending the six-week Music on Main series is Michael Weber on the 15th, a lively, dynamic DJ with a nationwide audience, including notable performances at album release parties for Miley Cyrus, Olivia Rodrigo, and Gracie Abrams. Be sure to check out these incredible performers live, and make sure to visit some downtown shops and participate in local nonprofit children’s activities (which include everything from face painting to showcasing animal ambassadors like snakes and hissing cockroaches)! For more information on the event, visit downtownbozeman.org/event/music-on-main-2024.