Weekend PICKS: Thursday, December 9th thru Sunday, December 12th
It’s finally beginning to look (a little) like Christmas!
The MUG is here to guide you around town and western Montana for all the good stuff happening this weekend.
Ugly Christmas Sweater parties abound, and if you don’t have a good (bad?) one yet, there are plenty to be found at all our local vintage clothing stores and thrift shops. The tackier the better.
UM Griz Football have their (away) quarterfinals playoff game vs. James Madison in Virginia at 7pm (MST) Friday night. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2, available at many of our favorite sports establishments. GO GRIZ!
Christmas Craft & Vendor Fairs: towns large and small all over western Montana have ’em going on. The big one – the Missoula Holiday Made Fair – is happening at the UM’s Adams Center on Sunday. Support local vendors – your best gifts are not sitting on a container ship off the coast!
There’s live local music at all the regular places all around, all the way through the weekend – around 65 music happenings, by our count!
No matter what direction you wanna go, you can’t go wrong. There are several fantastic events happening this weekend in Philipsburg. And ditto all the way up the Flathead, and the Bitterroot valleys.
Get out and enjoy our locally-owned bars & restaurants with Montana grown / made food and beverages. See a comedy show. Sing your favorite Christmas karaoke song (’tis the season), or catch a live show. Enjoy safely and responsibly.
Please note that events are subject to cancellation or change at the last minute. Be sure to check the event links to confirm your plans.
“Probably the reason we all go so haywire at Christmas time with the endless unrestrained and often silly buying of gifts is that we don’t quite know how to put our love into words.”
– Harlan Miller
Thursday, December 9
5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Folky Tonk Music with Aran Buzzas
KettleHouse Brewing Co. / Bonner Taproom
605 Cold Smoke Avenue, Bonner, Montana
Join us at the Bonner Taproom for homegrown Montana folky tonk music with Aran Buzzas, Guitarist, Singer, Songwriter, & Musician. Check out his music here: http://www.aranbuzzas.com/
Thursday, December 9
5:30 pm
Missoula Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet
The Double Tree
100 Madison Street, Missoula, Montana
Fundraising banquets such as these will help ensure that waterfowl will have places to nest, raise their young, migrate through and winter in each year. Your attendance will help DU conserve wetlands and critical upland habitat vital to North America’s waterfowl and the more than 900 other species of wildlife that use these same habitats.
Thursday, December 9
5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Imagine Irish
Imagine Nation Brewing
1151 W Broadway Street, Missoula, Montana
Thursday, December 9
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Thursday Night Music with Colton Sea
Bias Brewing
409 1st Avenue East, Kalispell, Montana
Join us Thursday evenings for some live music by local favorite, Colton Sea. Colton’s originals and covers are sure to entertain, he’s been known to even break out the kazoo! Come check him out and liven up your Thursday nights!
Thursday, December 9
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
John Floridis
Draught Works Brewery
915 Toole Avenue, Missoula, Montana
John Floridis is a Missoula, Montana based guitarist, singer-songwriter and composer. He has been a resident in the “Big Sky” since 1993 having moved there from the strong shouldered, down-but-never-out city of Cleveland, Ohio. He has released 5 recordings mixing bluesy, folk-rock vocal tunes with adventurous solo acoustic guitar compositions including one seasonal recording “December’s Quiet Joy.” He has been named Missoula’s best musician by the Missoula Independent and performed in the Western region for over a decade. https://johnfloridis.com/
Thursday, December 9
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Sacred Waters Trivia
Sacred Waters Brewing Company
3250 U.S. Highway 2 East Kalispell, Montana
It’s always a packed house so be sure to arrive early to snag a table and, most importantly, a beer! Max 8 people per team. No phones. Just those brains! Top three teams win beer money. See you there!
1st place team: $30 gift card
2nd place team: $20 gift card
3rd place team: $10 gift card
Thursday, December 9
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Smarty Pants Trivia
Waters Edge Winery
2593 Hwy 2 East, Ste #8, Kalispell, Montana
Smarty Pants Trivia night at Waters Edge Winery & Bistro!
Challenge your mind in this fun game that gets everyone involved.
Enjoy great food & amazing wine while you ponder life’s head-scratching questions!
Music is involved too, so brush up. Win and get your name up on our Smarty Pants Wall of Fame!
Brought to you by Waters Edge Winery and David Crismore & Co.
Thursday, December 9
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
TNR Thursday Night Hike
Blue Mountain, Missoula, Montana
Blue Mountain Hike
This week we’ll hike the trails at Blue Mountain. The group can decide on a route.
Meet at 6:00 pm at the main Blue Mountain Trailhead.
Click HERE for the Meetup Location on Google Maps
See you there!
Thursday, December 9
7:00 pm
Doug Chadwick book signing
Ten Spoon Vineyard & Winery
4175 Rattlesnake Dr, Missoula, Montana
Thursday, December 9
7:00 pm
The Timber Rattlers
Longstaff House
601 Longstaff Street, Missoula, Montana
The Timber Rattlers are an energetic bluegrass quartet from Missoula, MT. They pull inspiration from their traditional roots, but continue to push their boundaries in the realm of acoustic music.
Thursday, December 9
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Live music with Chuck and JD
The Shoe – Lakeview Dining & Spirits
820 Shoreline Drive, Polson, Montana
Thursday, December 9
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Wolf and the Moon
Cranky Sam Public House
233 W. Main Street, Missoula, Montana
Thursday, December 9
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Trivia
Western Cider
501 N. California Street, Missoula, Montana
Trivia at Western Cider! Come alone or bring your team for 5 rounds of questions ranging from current events and music to team-selected categories and much more. Plus, there are weekly prizes! We start right at 7pm, so make sure to arrive early to settle in, get your drinks, and prepare to strain your brain!
Thursday, December 9
7:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Blue Shadows
The Old Post Pub
103 W. Spruce Street, Missoula, Montana
Thursday, December 9 – Saturday, December 18
A Christmas Carol
Philipsburg Theatre
140 S. Sansome Street, Philipsburg, Montana
Philipsburg is excited to present to the public an iconic portrayal of Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. Directed by the returning Cassandra Hopkins, and performed by a talented cast, A Christmas Carol is sure to bring back memories, tears, and laughter throughout the night.
7 pm each night, matinee on the 11th!
For a complete list of dates/times and to purchase tickets, click here.
December 9, 10, & 11 at the UM Montana Theatre
32 Campus Drive, Missoula, Montana
December 16, 17, & 18 at the ZACC Show Room
216 W Main Street, Missoula, Montana
Doors at 7 PM // Show at 7:30 PM
Montana Repertory Theatre presents ‘Hearth: A Yuletide Tale’
By Tyson Gerhardt // Featuring The Recession Special
Tickets sold by the Montana Repertory Theatre and are ‘Pick What You Pay’ – To purchase tickets in advance visit: https://bityl.co/9y6K
On a cold December night, a young boy wanders off into a world of ragpickers, tramps, and buskers struggling to survive the winter. As they share their songs and stories, he hatches a plan to help them. But one wrong step could upset the balance of a way of life already on the edge. What begins as an act of childhood rebellion becomes a window into the wonder and the cruelty of the world.
Part concert, part reading, part new play development, Hearth is a story of hope, childhood rebellion, and the capacity for both wonder and cruelty in the world. Join us for the show and stay after to give your feedback and help us create a new holiday tradition for Missoula.
Masks are required for attendees for all Show Room events at this time. Masks may be removed for beverage consumption, but we ask that they please be worn at any time when not actively drinking. For further information, accessibility, and inquiries please visit https://www.zootownarts.org/meet-the-zacc/about/.
Thursday, December 9
Trivia 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm / Karaoke 8:30 pm – 12:00 am
Hosted by Pro DJ Entertainment
Eagles Lodge
2420 South Ave W, Missoula, Montana
Thursday, December 9
Doors at 7:00 pm // Show at 7:30 pm
KBGA Play It Forward Vol. 5 – Pale People for UM Food Pantry
Zootown Arts Community Center
216 W Main Street, Missoula, Montana
$10 in advance or at the door // Proceeds benefit UM Food Pantry
To purchase advance tickets visit: https://showroom.zootownarts.org/…/play-it-forward-vol…/
Earlier in 2021, KBGA College Radio and the Zootown Arts Community Center (ZACC) teamed up to create ‘Play It Forward’, a music series and podcast program curated to unite and uplift community artists and organizations in Missoula. Originally a live-streamed performance, Play It Forward is now in-person! For each show the ZACC and KBGA partner with a different organization and host local music performed at the ZACC Show Room, with proceeds going to that month’s organization. December’s performance boasts a Missoula cult favorite, Pale People, playing in support of the UM Food Pantry!
Masks are required for attendees for all Show Room events at this time. Masks may be removed for beverage consumption, but we ask that they please be worn at any time when not actively drinking. For further information, accessibility, and inquiries please visit https://www.zootownarts.org/meet-the-zacc/about/.
Thursday, December 9
9:00 pm – close
Karaoke with DJ Nite Wolf
Sunrise Saloon
1101 Strand Avenue, Missoula, Montana
Thursday, December 9
9:30 pm
John Dunnigan
Great Northern Bar
27 Central Avenue, Whitefish, Montana
Thursday, December 9
10:00 pm – 2:00 am
DNCE PRTY
The Badlander
208 Ryman Street, Missoula, Montana
$2 Cover | 21+
FRIDAY, December 10
Friday, December 10
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Luke Dowler
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
1380 Wisconsin Avenue, Whitefish, Montana
Friday, December 10
3:00 pm
Jazzy Friday with Jerry Clemens
The Shoe – Lakeview Dining & Spirits
820 Shoreline Drive, Polson, Montana
Friday, December 10
3:00 pm
Yule Night
Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine
21 MT-38, Philipsburg, Montana
An annual tradition returns to Philipsburg once again in Yule Night. Santa will be at Gem Mountain from 3-5 to hear Christmas wishes and shops will be open for holiday shopping. See our separate event for the Lighted Christmas Parade.
Friday, December 10
3:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Western Wax
Western Cider
501 N. California Street, Missoula, Montana
Calling all KOOKS! Powder’s flying soon and it’s time to get your gear together for the season! We’re teaming up with our amigos at Board Of Missoula to offer a FREE WAX with the purchase of a cider. Snowboards and Skis are welcome! Limited availability. We are accepting skis and boards till 8PM – so, get here quick! Skrrrt!
Friday, December 10
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Holiday Open House
Corwin Galleries
315 West Main Street, Hamilton, Montana
We will be serving beverages and tasty appetizers in our beautifully decorated gallery. Special holiday pricing will be offered on original paintings, prints, beautiful notecards, 8×10 studies and we are happy to announce the availability of Gift Certificates as a new offering.
Friday, December 10
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Awkward Family Photos with Santa
Great Northern Bar & Grill
27 Central Avenue, Whitefish, Montana
We’re keeping the long-standing Whitefish tradition alive at a new location. This Christmas Stroll, come to the Great Northern Bar between 5-8pm for your Awkward Holiday Photos with Santa. Free digital downloads courtesy of Picture Montana. Find your ugliest sweater and matching pajamas. Drag along your friends and coworkers. If you’re feeling generous, bring a donation for Santa’s beer fund. Kids are welcome between 5 and 6:30 pm.
Friday, December 10
5:00 pm on ESPN2
UM Griz Football vs James Madison University
(Away game in Harrisonburg, Virginia)
With Friday’s win over Eastern Washington, the Montana Grizzlies have advanced to the Quarterfinal round of the FCS playoffs for the 14th time in program history, and will once again play under the lights in primetime in front of a national audience. The No. 6 Grizzlies will now travel to Harrisonburg, Virginia, to take on the No. 3 seed James Madison Dukes on Friday, December 10, with kickoff from Bridgeforth Stadium set for 5 p.m. Mountain Time, 7 p.m. Eastern.
ESPN2 will broadcast the game nationwide. Montana is 1-1 all-time against James Madison. The Griz fell to the Dukes 21-31 in the 2004 National Championship Game in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Montana beat JMU in 2008 when the Griz went to Harrisonburg and came away with a 35-27 win in the FCS Semifinal. The Grizzlies advanced to the quarterfinal round with a thrilling 57-41 win over Eastern Washington in Missoula on Friday to move to 10-2 on the season. UM heads to Harrisonburg on a six-game win streak that included a win over rival Montana State. Should the Grizzlies win they will advance to the FCS Semifinal to face the winner of the North Dakota State/Eastern Tennessee game on December 17 or 18.
Friday, December 10
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Luke Lautaret
Sacred Waters Brewing
3250 U.S. Hwy 2 E, Kalispell, Montana
Friday, December 10
5:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Whitefish Christmas Stroll 2021
Downtown, Whitefish Montana
Eat, sing, catch up with friends, be amazed by the fire dancers, take a picture with Santa, pet the sled dogs, support your local shops and businesses and so much more! You won’t want to miss it! Come by and enjoy the Christmas season in historic Downtown Whitefish.
Follow us on Facebook – Whitefish Christmas Stroll
We have some exciting plans for this year to make 2021 better than ever!
Event by Whitefish Christmas Stroll, Flathead Small Business Saturday and Whitefish Chamber of Commerce
Friday, December 10
6:00 pm
Lighted Christmas Parade
Philipsburg, Montana
Motorized Entries Line up at Grade school Parking lot between 5 and 5:30 pm
Walking Entries are welcome to join at Bear Park
No Entry Fee. Please phone Gem Mountain at 406-859-4367 to Participate
For the fun of it light it up – no individual prizes. Gem Mountain Sapphires will donate $100 to the non-profit, civic group, club or organization of the “Winner’s” choice.
$100 each for the “Best”: 1) Motorized entry and 2) Non-Motorized Entry
The parade will also be broadcast live on the Facebook page of the Flint Creek Courier.
Friday, December 10
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Hillary O
Bias Brewing
409 1st Avenue East, Kalispell, Montana
Friday, December 10
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Allison Stayer
MontaVino Winery
38 1st Avenue E, Suite D. Kalispell, Montana
Friday, December 10
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Luke Dowler
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
1380 Wisconsin Avenue, Whitefish, Montana
Friday, December 10
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Beth Lo & Dave Horgan
Ten Spoon Vineyard + Winery
4175 Rattlesnake Drive, Missoula, Montana
Friday, December 10
7:00 pm
Karaoke with Kaleidoscope Entertainment
The Jack Saloon
7000 Graves Creek Road, Lolo, Montana
Friday, December 10
7:00 pm – 7:00 am Sleep Out
When The Night Comes
Sparrow’s Nest of Northwest Montana
Northwest Montana Fairgrounds
265 Meridian Road, Kalispell, Montana
This event is about our community being the change for homeless youth and supporting our residents by raising funds and sleeping out so our homeless youth never have to. The students we serve come from all backgrounds, but the one thing they all have in common is their need for a safe and stable place to call home. No child should have to sleep in cars, tents or couch surf when the night comes. Hope to see you there!
Don’t forget to register for the event here: https://www.sparrowsnestnwmt.org/when-the-night-comes-1
To give: https://donate-usa.keela.co/when-the-night-comes-dec-2021
December 10,11,17,18 7:30 pm
December 12, 19 2:00 pm
Elf the Musical Jr
Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre
526 Electric Avenue, Bigfork, Montana
ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, a young orphan child who mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported back to the North Pole. Unaware that he is actually human, Buddy’s enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father, discover his true identity, and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. This modern day Christmas classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner ELF.
Tickets will be available online and at the box office 1 hour before performance times.
Friday, December 10
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Songs and Stories – Open Mic Night
Gather All Souls
130 E Broadway Street, Missoula, Montana
Questions? Email us at gather.allsoulsmissoula@gmail.com
Friday, December 10
Doors at 7:00 pm // Show at 7:30 pm
Zootown Cabaret presents ‘British Invasion’
Zootown Arts Community Center
216 W Main Street, Missoula, Montana
$15 // Advance tickets recommended
To purchase advance tickets visit: https://showroom.zootownarts.org/…/zootown-cabaret…/
Join us for a revue of songs from British musicals such as Jesus Chris Superstar, Les Misérables, and Mamma Mia, as well as songs by famous bands from the UK from The Beatles and the Bee Gees to Radiohead and Adele. Zootown Cabaret is a performing ensemble in the University of Montana School of Music, performing songs from musical theatre and popular music.
Masks are required for attendees for all Show Room events at this time. Masks may be removed for beverage consumption, but we ask that they please be worn at any time when not actively drinking.
For further information, accessibility, and inquiries please visit https://www.zootownarts.org/meet-the-zacc/about/.
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown 2021
Friday, December 10, 2021 7:30 pm
Saturday, December 11, 2021 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 12, 2021 2:00 pm & 6:30 pm
Thursday, December 16, 2021 7:30 pm
Friday, December 17, 2021 7:30 pm
Saturday, December 18, 2021 2:00 pm & 7:30 pm
Sunday, December 19, 2021 2:00 pm & 6:30 pm
Missoula Community Theatre
200 N Adams Street, Missoula, Montana
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown is an iconic story that it needs little description—will it be fun for children? Absolutely. Will grown-ups think back to their childhood? Good grief, YES! All the familiar and beloved characters will be brought to life on stage, portrayed by a cast of adult actors. Snoopy’s enthusiastic “Suppertime”, a full-cast rendition of Schroeder’s favorite composer’s birthday “Beethoven Day” and Linus’ ode to his beloved possession, “My Blanket and Me” are among the many numbers sure to wrap up the audience in a warm, musical blanket. (Kids– of all ages– can even bring their favorite blanket).
This full-length production features six adult actors in the roles brought to life by Clark Gesner, who wrote the book, music and lyrics for the original 1967 version and subsequent revival, which won several Tony Awards and nominations, a Grammy nomination and other honors while also winning the hearts of children and adults of all ages. Gesner noted that “None of the cast is actually six years old. And they don’t really look like Charles Schulz’ “Peanuts” cartoon characters. But this doesn’t seem to make that much difference once we are into the play, because what they are saying to each other is with the openness of that early childhood time, and the obvious fact is that they are all really quite fond of each other.”
Click HERE for Tickets!
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown is a production of the Missoula Community Theatre and sponsored by PayneWest Insurance, US Bank, and Rhoades, Seifert & Erickson, PLLP.
*Thursday, December 9th is Premiere Night which includes a catered reception for a special price.
Contact Beth at bfrazee@MCTinc.org.
Friday, December 10
8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Whiskey Rose
Kalispell Eagles
1820 US Highway 93 South , Kalispell, Montana
Friday, December 10
8:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Jeremy McComb-Yule Night!
Philipsburg Theater
140 South Sansome Street, Philipsburg, Montana
Add a cowboy Christmas to your Yule night celebrations this December as the one and only Jeremy McComb graces the stage of Philipsburg with his voice and brings the community together to feel the spirit of Christmas.
Friday, December 10
8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Ugly Sweater Party
Cowboy Troy’s
2359 US Highway 93 N, Victor, Montana
Friday, December 10
8:00 pm
Kenny James Miller
Kalispell Elks Club & Event Center
1820 US Highway 93 S, Kalispell, Montana
Friday, December 10
8:00 pm
Dueling Pianos
Stave & Hoop
223 N. Higgins – Alley Entrance, Missoula, Montana
Enjoy an interactive, semi-raucous and fully fun evening with Dr. Doug & Josh Farmer – No Cover!
Friday, December 10
8:30 pm
Unwound
Maverick’s Road House
7254 US Highway 93, Lakeside, Montana
The one…The only… Garth Brooks…Tribute Show performed by the ever loved local band Unwound! I know we’ve all got “Friend in Low Places” just let that “Thunder Roll” your car down to Mavericks this Friday night. Music starts at 8:30 pm.
Friday, December 10
9:00 pm – 12:00 am
Cosmic Sans & Buttah Puppy
Monk’s Bar Missoula
221 Ryman, Missoula, Montana
Come down to Monk’s Bar & support your local artists!
Doors open at 9 pm, music starts at 10 pm!
Epic night of psychedelic jazz and hot buttered funk at Monk’s! $6 cover.
Bring your dancing shoes and your friends. Strap in. Don’t touch that dial.
21+
Friday, December 10
9:00 pm to 1:00 am
Solid Sound Karaoke in the Bowl Dog Lounge
Westside Lanes & Fun Center
1615 Wyoming St., Missoula, Montana
Friday, December 10
9:00 pm – 1:00 am
Karaoke with Bluette
The Sitting Duck
15265 Mt Highway 35, Bigfork, Montana
Friday, December 10
9:00 pm
The Workers
Union Club Bar & Grill
208 E Main Street, Missoula, Montana
Friday, December 10
9:00 pm to close
Karaoke w/DJ Nitewolf
Evaro Bar and Casino
17025 US Highway 93 North, Evaro, Montana
Friday, December 10
9:00 pm
Nitewolf Productions
Dark Horse Bar
1805 Regent Street, Missoula, Montana
Friday, December 10
9:00 pm
Tim Helnore
Perfect Shot Tavern
218 Main Street, Polson, Montana
Tim Helnore is back this Friday @ 9 pm. If you haven’t heard him check out his page https://www.facebook.com/TimHelnoreMusic
Tim puts on a great show! See you all Friday night!
Friday, December 10
9:30 pm – 1:00 am
Luke Dowler and The Midnight Conversations
Great Northern Bar
27 Central Avenue, Whitefish, Montana
$5 at the Door
Friday, December 10
9:30 pm – 1:30 am
Wild Prairie Smoke
Sunrise Saloon and Casino
1101 Strand Avenue, Missoula, Montana
Influenced by funk, punk, metal, and southern rock musings, WPS is at it again playing your favorite rock, pop, country, and Motown songs, as well as some newly minted originals. Join them as they light up The Sunrise for another fun night of dancing and drinking with old friends and new.
Friday, December 10
10:00 pm – 2:00 am
Dead Hipster presents-I Love the 90s+2000s Dance Party
The Badlander
208 Ryman Street, Missoula, Montana
SATURDAY, December 11
Saturday, December 11
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Orchard Homes Holiday Markets
Orchard Homes’ Farmers’ Market
2537 S 3rd Street W, Missoula, Montana
Saturday, December 11
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Missoula Valley Winter Market
2901 Brooks Street (inside the halls of Southgate Mall, near Scheels), Missoula, Montana
The weekly #missoulavalleywintermarket happens Saturday at 9 am – 2 pm in the Southgate Mall! We’re located inside the newly remodeled WEST entrance behind Scheels. Approximately 40 LOCAL vendors each Saturday.
We also have a weekly Wednesday evening market from 4:30-7:00 pm in case you miss Saturday.
Our local vendors are so excited to see you!
And don’t forget to take advantage of TRIPLE SNAP dollars this year!
Saturday, December 11
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Big Sky Drama Holiday Craft Fair
Big Sky High School
3100 South Ave W, Missoula, Montana
This event is free and open to the public. Masks are required. Proceeds generated from this event support scholarships for Drama students as well as the much needed materials that make our department successful. This event is also a great way to support local artists and crafters!
Saturday, December 11
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Paper Garlands
Ravalli County Museum
205 Bedford Street, Hamilton, Montana
Deck the halls with red, green, and gold! These paper garlands will be fun to make and look very festive in your home! Just curl strips of construction paper into circles and staple them together as you loop them into a chain. A holiday tradition for every family! All family events are at the Ravalli County Museum in Hamilton, MT (406)363-3338
Saturday, December 10
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Explore the Wilds and Wonders of Winter
Travelers’ Rest State Park
6717 Highway 12 W, Lolo, Montana
Step into a winter wonderland at Travelers’ Rest State Park with expert naturalist guide Hobie Hare. Learn how to enjoy the woods and wilds in wintertime; what to look for and what to bring. Hobie will help focus your attention on bird sounds and views, animal tracks and trails, the quiet senescence of plants, and the soft quality of light and shadow. As you wander the trails get a spectacular view of snow-covered Lolo peak. Bears, mountain lions, foxes, and bobcats have all be seen in the park as well as our more common winter birds and small creatures. Practice naturalist skills you can use throughout Montana’s longest season.
Instructor, Hobie Hare, served as an interpretive seasonal ranger in Yellowstone for eight seasons, including a winter season at Fishing Bridge (which is over 50 miles from a paved road during this season). He works as a naturalist mentor, speaker and educator, and guides backpacking tours and single day trips. Hobie works to help you quickly connect with and relax in the beauty of the natural world, better equipping you to navigate life changes, challenges and opportunities.
What to Bring:
-Clothes appropriate for changing winter weather- jackets, hats, gloves, hand and foot warmers, layers, sunglasses, etc.
-Good walking boots
-Water and snacks
-Mask
-Journal and writing utensil (optional)
-Camera (optional)
-Binoculars (we will have some borrow)
Cost*: $30 MNHC members / $35 non-members
*You can add an MNHC membership at checkout. This class is open to only 12 participants. What’s the refund policy?
The course fee (minus a 25% administrative fee) is refundable if a cancellation is made up to 7 days before the event. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this deadline. This ticket is non-transferable to other programs or events. See our full refund/cancellation policy here: https://www.montananaturalist.org/refund-policy/
Saturday, December 11
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Pictures with Santa
Bitterroot Shedz
2101 N 1st Street, Hamilton, Montana
Saturday, December 11
10:00 am -2:00 pm
Christmas Bazaar in Drummond
Drummond Montana Community Hall
54 E Broad Street, Drummond, Montana
Saturday, December 11
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Enchanted Christmas Village
9 Mile School House
18815 Remount Road, Huson, Montana
Ride a country train, send a letter to the North Pole, decorate a cookie, wander through the elves’ workshop, and meet with Santa to have your photo taken! Soup lunch and hot chocolate stations, not to mention a cup of Christmas cheer for the adults by the bonfire. Craft vendors and live caroling- there really is something for everyone.
Saturday, December 11
12:00 pm
TubaChristmas
Bonner Park Bandshell
Hastings & Ronald Streets Missoula, Montana
Saturday, December 11
12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
3rd Annual European Christmas Market
MontaVino Winery
38 1st Avenue E, Suite D. Kalispell, Montana
Do a little holiday shopping while enjoying complimentary European cookies and hot chocolate or sip on a German Glühwein (spiced mulled wine), a Christmas wine cocktail or glass of your favorite varietal.
Saturday, December 11
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Pet Photos with Santa
Happy Hounds Pet Supply
7935 Mt Highway 35, 107, Bigfork, Montana
Get the whole family into the Holiday spirit and pick up some extra special presents for your pup. While in Bigfork, don’t forget to head downtown to check out all the decorations and store fronts while getting the last of your Christmas shopping done. Pet photos will be outside at Branding Iron Station. There is no charge but donations to Dog Tag Buddies are gladly accepted.
Saturday, December 11
2:30 pm
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
The Roxy Theater
718 S Higgins Avenue, Missoula, Montana
In this live-action adaptation of the beloved children’s tale by Dr. Seuss, the reclusive green Grinch (Jim Carrey) decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. Reluctantly joined by his hapless dog, Max, the Grinch comes down from his mountaintop home and sneaks into town to swipe everything holiday-related from the Whos. However, the bitter grump finds a hitch in his plans when he encounters the endearing Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen).
Buy tickets here.
Saturday, December 11
3:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Meat and Greet with Montana Grit
Philipsburg Brewing Company
106 Brewery Road, Philipsburg, Montana
We are hosting the annual Meat and Greet event brought to you by Montana Grit Outdoors this year at The Springs taproom. This meat donation event is held every year to help fill freezers of those who need it most. Bring in your packaged meat donation from 2020-2021 harvests to be donated to fill freezers in need, accepting locally raised beef, pork, elk, or deer, please no store-bought items. For every 15lbs donated, you will get a free raffle ticket for the gun raffle! This year Montana Grit will be raising money for Braach Shepherds for Veterans from all of the silent auction items. There will be a taco bar, live music from 5-8 pm by Andrea Harsell, 50/50, raffle items, silent auction, gun raffles, and more! Stay tuned for specifics on this great event! If you can’t make it but would like to donate meat ahead of time, please message us or Montana Grit to arrange pickup. Thank you and we hope to see you there for this great cause!
Saturday, December 11
EARLY SET Doors open at 4:30// 5-6:30 PM //
LATE SET Doors open at 7:30 // 8-9:30 PM //
UM Jazz Holiday Swing / ‘Home for Christmas’ with Scott Jeppesen
Zootown Arts Community Center
216 West Main Street, Missoula, Montana
$250 6-top Sponsorship Table (includes three bottles of wine, sweets & treats, and name as a sponsor on the program and advertisements)
$100 4-top Table (includes one bottle of wine, sweets & treats)
$20 General Admission
TICKETS FOR EACH INDIVIDUAL EVENING SET MUST BE PURCHASED SEPARATELY.
Advance purchase for tables required. To purchase a table or general admission ticket visit: https://showroom.zootownarts.org/
The University of Montana Jazz Program is pairing up with the ZACC and Billings Woodwind Artist, Scott Jeppesen, for an evening of fun holiday jazz entertainment as a fundraiser for the UM Jazz Program and the 42nd Annual Buddy DeFranco Jazz Festival. In addition to an internationally recognized woodwind artist, Scott Jeppesen, along with auction items, special surprises, and holiday big band favorites! Scott Jeppesen is an artist who performs in a variety of settings and styles including big bands, small groups, orchestras and movie and television soundtracks as well as theater. He has performed with numerous jazz luminaries and has recorded in Los Angeles with some of the busiest jazz artists in the business. Joining Scott at this wonderful event is the UM Jazz Ensemble I under the direction of Rob Tapper and Missoula Jazz Collective made up of jazz faculty including David Morgenroth (piano), Jeff Troxel (guitar), Bob LedBetter (drum set) and Tommy Sciple (bass). The UM Jazz Ensemble I will perform some toe-tapping holiday favorites along with pieces featuring Scott. This event occurs in part to raise money for the UM Buddy DeFranco Jazz Festival, UM jazz scholarships and to help with UM Jazz Program activities including guest artists, equipment and student travel to festivals across the West Coast. Come and join us for an evening of jazz entertainment presenting holiday classics from Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Stan Kenton, as well as fresh and new big band tunes.
Masks are required for attendees for all Show Room events at this time. Masks may be removed for beverage consumption, but we ask that they please be worn at any time when not actively drinking. For further information, accessibility, and inquiries please visit https://www.zootownarts.org/meet-the-zacc/about/.
Saturday, December11
5:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Ugly Sweater Party
A Sip of Montana
14509 MT HWY 35, Bigfork, Montana
Saturday, December 11
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Halladay Quist
Sacred Waters Brewing
3250 U.S. Hwy 2 E, Kalispell, Montana
Saturday, December 11
6:00 pm
Christmas Light Cruise
Main Street, Kalispell, Montana
Event by ElevatioN, NW Montana Cars and Coffee and Montana Car Shows & Cruises
Saturday, December 11
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
James Hudson
Imagine Nation Brewing
1151 W. Broadway Street, Missoula, Montana
Saturday, December 11
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Modified Lockdown
Blacksmith Brewing Company
114 Main Street, Stevensville, Montana
Modified Lockdown is an eclectic duo from Montana’s Bitterroot Valley, featuring DK Schmidt and Amy Smart.
Saturday, December 11
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
John Dunnigan Live
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
1380 Wisconsin Ave Whitefish, Montana
Saturday, December 11
6:00 pm
Eric Alan
The Shoe – Lakeview Dining & Spirits
820 Shoreline Drive, Polson, Montana
Saturday, December 11
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Zootown Music
Cranky Sam Public House
233 West Main Street, Missoula, Montana
Don’t be surprised when Zootown Music follows up a country classic from Johnny Cash with a fresh hit from Kanye. These guys have got variety to go along with their own originals. Come check them on out Saturday and grab a pint and dinner.
Saturday, December 11
7:00 pm
Whiskey Rose live music
Kalispell Elks Club & Event Center
180 US Hwy 93 S, Kalispell, Montana
Whiskey Rose is coming to rock the Elks Lodge and help us feed the Valleys neediest. Flathead Valley Food Bank is a charity we all are happy to help!
Saturday, December 11
8:00 pm – 11:45 pm
Russ Nasset and the Revelators
The Jack Saloon
7000 Graves Creek Road, Lolo, Montana
Come early and have dinner, stay for the music. The grill closes at 8 pm, we will keep the fryer on till close for quick bites to keep you dancing! The campground is open for dry camping for superstars, first come first serve, must check-in at the Bar and register. Call 406-273-6264 for cabin availability. Anyone that cannot stay, please be responsible.
Saturday, December 11
9:00 pm to 1:00 am
Solid Sound Karaoke in the Bowl Dog Lounge
Westside Lanes & Fun Center
1615 Wyoming St., Missoula, Montana
Saturday, December 11
9:00 pm – 1:00 am
Karaoke with Bluette
The Sitting Duck
15265 MT Highway 35, Bigfork, Montana
Saturday, December 11
9:00 pm
Jackson Holte
Union Club
208 E Main Street, Missoula, Montana
Saturday, December 11
9:00 pm – 2:00 am
Intice, Deathcare Industries, and Super Sport
Monk’s Bar Missoula
221 Ryman Street, Missoula, Montana
21+, $7 cover charge at the door
Saturday, December 11
9:00 pm to Close
Karaoke with DJ Nite Wolf
Sunrise Saloon
1101 Strand Avenue, Missoula, Montana
Saturday, December 11
9:30 pm – 1:30 am
Engine Ninety Nine – Kicking Off the ’21-’22 Ski Season
Great Northern Bar
27 Central Avenue, Whitefish, Montana
SUNDAY, December 12
Sunday, December 12
11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Missoula Holiday MADE Fair 2021
UM Adams Center
32 Campus Drive, Missoula, Montana
The 14th annual Missoula Holiday MADE fair is a modern handcrafted market with over 200 local artists & makers. Our curated collection of artisans, as well as a handful of non-profits, represents the best of the best and we put on quite a show. You can expect to see everything from affordable, functional works of art to fine heirloom pieces at the show. Shop all three levels of the Adams Center (balcony, arena floor, and upper gyms) and discover new artists and shop your favorites. Do you want a little head start on your shopping? Beat the crowds by purchasing a $10 VIP pass to get in the doors an hour before the show opens! All of the proceeds will go to the Jeannette Rankin Peace Center. Tickets will be available online and at the door. Please bring a non-perishable food item to help support the Missoula Food Bank. Presented by handMADE Montana—recently named Retailer of the Year by the Made in Montana Program.
VIP PASS: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/handmademontana/579778
Sunday, December 12
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Holiday Market
The Tailing Loop Winery
1498 Mt Highway 35, Kalispell, Montana
Sunday, December 12
12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Sunday Funday Board Games
Cranky Sam Public House
235 W. Main Street, Missoula, Montana
Celebrate Sunday Funday with us at Cranky Sam Public House! Every Sunday earn you and your gamer friends a buy-one-get-one-free flight of Cranky Sam beer just for bringing in a game to play at the pub! It doesn’t matter if it’s Cribbage or Catan, Dominoes or DnD, we love to see the gamers using our nice big tables! So, shake off the hangover, grab some food, sip a bevvy, and bring some friends to enjoy your Sunday with us game nerds!
Sunday, December 12
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Hot Toddy Holiday Market
Westslope Distillery
172 S. 2nd Street, Hamilton, Montana
5 amazing artists and makers within the cozy setting of Westslope Distillery.
Merriment and cheer to be had by all!~ Ruby and Revolver – Favorite local silversmith to you and the stars.
~ Two Poppies Apothecary – Herbal gifts, teas, remedies, and skincare
~ Furrow and Ridge – Conscious clothing and the greatest jackets you’ll ever meet.
~ Kick Turn Studio – Badass ceramics.
~ High Lonesome – Paintings, mixed media, vintage silver and more. Excited to show you all what we have in store for your holiday gifting needs and wants.
Sunday, December 12
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Audacious – Rollerblades & Skates
Fort Missoula
2725 CCC Road, Missoula, Montana
We gather every week to meet new friends who love to skate, blade, longboard, or simply hang out.
Traditional and electric personal vehicles are welcome!
Don’t worry if that’s your first time on wheels under your feet, we are always happy to help! We offer a class on the basics that spans across two weekends. We just love to blade and skate and we want to help people connect, improve their skills and share their exitement for that liberating sport.
Classes are designed for beginners and last 45min. They are free and take place with a minimum of 3 participants.
Skates – Learn the basics including 2 different ways to stop, how to fall, turn, ride on one blade, maintenance and rollerblade types.
Electric Longboards – Startup guide. Posture, turning, carving, emergency breaking, surface awareness and maintenance.
We are excited to meet e-skaters, one-wheelers, EUCs and electric scooters. There is a growing electric community in Missoula and we are happy to be part of it. Come and meet others who choose to move the way you do.
Please note that everyone is responsible for the level of safety they consider appropriate and that the organizer bears no responsibility.
Sunday, December 12
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Love is a Dog From Nebraska (Travis Yost)
Draught Works Brewery
915 Toole Avenue, Missoula, Montana
Sunday, December 12
Doors at 7:00 pm // Show at 7:30 pm //
Itchy Kisses + Cal Fish + Jesse the Ocelot
Zootown Arts Community Center
216 West Main Street, Missoula, Montana
$10 General Admission // $15 Tour Supporter Ticket
To purchase advance tickets visit: https://showroom.zootownarts.org/…/itchy-kisses-cal…/
Itchy kisses (she/they) is an electronic and visual artist from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Through the use of samples and synth loops they create distorted and whimsical soundscapes and pop songs with elements of improvisation and an array of vocal techniques. Their album In color just came out on all streaming platforms.
Cal Fish is an artist who works across many mediums and is very interested in interactive sound art. They are from New York where they make upcycled custom clothing and help run a multi-purpose event space called The Living Gallery. Cal’s album Simple as a Sunset is a collection of ambient flute dance music that just came out on cassette, bag, and all streaming platforms for you to sleep or dance to.
Jesse, The Ocelot is a solo artist from the mountains of Montana who uses guitar and vocal loops to create atmospheric soundscapes. Dreamy sounds of reverb-y vocal harmonies and warm guitar melodies combined with jazzy, soulful style. Jesse, The Ocelot wants to help guide you through the cosmos with meaningful lyrics and good energy.
Masks are required for attendees for all Show Room events at this time. Masks may be removed for beverage consumption, but we ask that they please be worn at any time when not actively drinking. For further information, accessibility, and inquiries please visit https://www.zootownarts.org/meet-the-zacc/about/.
Sunday, December 12
9:00 pm to Close
Karaoke w/DJ Nitewolf
The Sunrise Saloon
1101 Strand Avenue, Missoula, Montana
Please note that events are subject to cancellation or change at the last minute. Be sure to check the event links to confirm your plans.