Fourth of July Celebrations Across Montana’s Yellowstone Country
Red Lodge, photo by Andy Austin
The Fourth of July is a highly anticipated celebration in Montana’s Yellowstone Country. Amid the rush of summer fun, residents are serious about commemorating our country’s independence. Across the region, there are community-wide events such as parades, rodeos, live music, and, of course, fireworks.
Make a Day of it in West Yellowstone
Family-friendly events happen all day in West Yellowstone. Their farmers market starts the festivities, followed by Pie on the Porch, the Buffalo Chip Chuck, parade, Music in the Park, Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo, and fireworks to wrap up the night!
Music, Fun Run and Resort Activities in Big Sky
The day begins with the Big Sky Community Organization’s 5K Fun Run. The run starts at Len Hill Park and includes family activities such as face painting and crafts. Afterward, head up to Big Sky Resort for scenic lift rides, guided hikes, ziplining, and Après in the Plaza with lawn games and live music. A special night of Music in the Mountains concludes the day with the Tiny Band back at the park. (Sorry, no fireworks in Big Sky, the fire danger is too much of a risk.)
West Yellowstone
Lace Up Your Running Shoes in Bozeman
The Bangtail Divide 38K is one of the most popular races in Bozeman. Starting at Crosscut Mountain Sports Center, runners will be shuttled to the base of the Bangtails to begin one of the most stunning runs in the area. End the day with a fireworks display at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds!
Rodeo, Parades, and Fireworks in Livingston
The Livingston Roundup Rodeo, Montana’s oldest rodeo, draws hundreds over the course of four days. Don’t miss the America 250 parade on July 2 at 3 p.m. and the Kiddie Rodeo on July 3. Plus, they go all out on the fireworks, which take place every night from July 1 to 4.
A Mountain Picnic in Cooke City
Celebrate with the EMS Fourth of July Parade and Fireman’s Picnic under the backdrop of towering mountain peaks in Cooke City. Enjoy good community fun like the Chamber of Commerce Duck Races, a pancake breakfast on July 5, and the Beartooth Run on July 6.
Red Lodge, photo by Andy Austin
Ropin’ and Ridin’ in Red Lodge
The Home of Champions Rodeo in Red Lodge is another of the region's larger events. Start the weekend on July 1 with the PRCA Xtreme Bulls competition, followed by three days of rodeo, including a parade each day at noon!
Block Party and Fireworks in Belgrade
Celebrate America’s 250th with a block party July 3, downtown Belgrade, from 5-8pm, followed by fireworks at 10:30pm!
Livingston parade
Hot Dogs and Pie in Three Forks
The City of Three Forks is celebrating America 250 with a BBQ July 2 at the Farmers Market. Enjoy hot dogs, and a pie tasting contest centered around creative red, white and blue themed pies!
On the Topic of Fireworks…
Please remember that fire danger can be great in Montana. Montana law allows for fireworks to be sold from June 24 through July 5, and while the state allows fireworks on private property, many local municipalities and all public or federal lands have their own specific bans, dates, and time restrictions. Please be safe and conscientious this holiday.