BBQ, Brews and Family Fun in Montana's Yellowstone Country

Summer Events in Stillwater County

Stillwater County, Montana, is an area of Montana’s Yellowstone Country known for its stunning landscapes and a well-preserved rural way of life. In this part of the region, the landscape slows you down, and you find yourself taking the time to soak in the unbelievable beauty. It’s where roads run for miles without houses, and the rolling hills are shades of green, turning gold as autumn approaches.

The communities around here are tight-knit, spending time at school sporting events and community gatherings – events created simply as a reason to get together. This summer is full of them, so if you’re coming through Yellowstone Country, take note - participating in the camaraderie is worth a trip.

 

Montana BBQ Cookoff, June 9-10

A qualifier for the American Royal and Jack Daniels Invitational Draws, 40 people will compete for the title of Montana’s best this year. It’s a grand time, with live music, food trucks, and BBQ samples from the competitors!

 

Stillwater County Brewfest

June 17, 2023

A benefit for the Museum of the Beartooths, Stillwater County Brewfest features local breweries, food trucks, and live music by El Wencho.

 

Columbus Town-Wide Garage Sale

June 17, 2023

If you’re a treasure hunter, you’ll love the city-wide garage sale in Columbus. Antiques, gently used gems, and all sorts of unique relics pop up around here!

 

Nitro National Hillclimb

June 23-24

For those who love the thrill of motorsports, the Nitro National Hillclimb does not disappoint! Camping passes are available for those who want to make a weekend of it!

 

Fishtail Family Fun Day

June 24, 2023

Start the festivities with a pancake breakfast, followed by a bake sale, gun raffle, cornhole tournament, parade, Lunch in the Park, live music, a duck race, kid’s activities, and bingo!

 

Stillwater County 4-H Fair

July 14-21st, Party on June 21st

Stillwater County Civic Center

Watch as hardworking youth present their 4-H projects in a friendly, fair competition. Take the little ones to see all the animals up close!

 

Nye Goes Nuts

July 15, 2023

The whole area gathers at the Nye Firehall for a balloon launch, climbing wall, cornhole tournament, live music, tour car rides, classic chicken chase, food, and raffles.

 

Absarokee Days

July 29, 2023

Another small-town favorite, this celebration starts with a pancake breakfast, crafts, food vendors, a cornhole tournament, a softball tournament, and live music.

 

Columbus Farmers Market

Thursdays through August 4-6:30 pm

Railroad Park

Meet the local producers and stock up on fresh produce, baked goods, preserves, and crafts!

 

Reed Point Sheep Drive

September 3, 2023

The Great Montana Sheep Drive is now in its 35th year and is still going strong. Each year it draws crowds nearing 8,000 people who come to witness a piece of Montana history. The day starts with a parade and is loaded with a street fair full of vendors, children’s rides, and hay bale races. They shear sheep, spin the wool, and wrap up with live music and a street dance.