Spring Events at Montana State University
Spring has arrived and there is a lot to look forward to in the next couple of months, particularly at Montana State University (MSU), the largest university in Montana and a gem of an asset for Montana's Yellowstone Country. (Fun fact: when you drive up 8th Ave in Bozeman, MSU sits regally at the end. But this wasn’t the original intention. City leaders built the grand entrance, hoping that Bozeman would be the state capital and 8th Ave would be the entrance. We’re happy the outcome was the university!)
Academia aside (and we’re exceptionally proud of the quality of education and research coming out of MSU), the school brings several significant events for the public to enjoy. March 28-29 is the 49th Annual American Indian Powwow, where Native Americans from across the region gather for traditional dancing, drumming and celebration. It’s free and open to the public, and I try to attend it each year. It’s a beautiful gathering that brings me joy and reverence every time.
Photo courtesy American Indian Council
The 4th annual “Dinosaurs and MOR! Festival” occurs March 28-30 at Museum of the Rockies. This family-friendly event features 18 talks from top paleontologists, hands-on workshops, Jr. Paleontology stations, and more!
April 7, the faculty and students from Montana State University’s School of Music are performing a collaborative chamber concert in Reynolds Recital Hall. The concert, organized as a show of gratitude for President Cruzado’s continued support of the college, and will feature composers from the retiring President’s native Puerto Rico and Caribbean Islands.
The MSU Spring Rodeo happens April 10-13, when young cowgirls and cowboys compete against nine other collegiate teams. We consider it the kick-off to rodeo season. (Don’t worry about the weather; the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse transforms into a rodeo arena, so the competition takes place indoors.)
“The Brick,” as it’s fondly referred to, also hosts some fantastic concerts, with Sturgill Simpson taking the stage on April 17, Alison Krauss and Union Station on July 26, and Zach Williams on October 24.
Spring Made Fair, Brick Breeden Fieldhouse, Montana State University
Finally, the Bozeman Spring Made Fair is coming back May 2-3. Over 190 artists will come together for one of the best art shows around. From affordable, functional art to heirloom fine art pieces, it’s not only inspiring but also a great place to shop for gifts!
Other notable spring events around the region include the opening of the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park on April 18, the Spring Rendezvous Brewfest in Bozeman on May 10, and the opening of the Beartooth Highway on May 23 (weather permitting!).