Area Events & Great Dates

Community Calender of events and activities in the Whitefish area:

Click Here for Whitefish Community Foundation Calendar

January 2008

Snow Shoeing Through Glacier Park – Glacier Park
January 7th through March 16th 2008
Two-hour guided snowshoe walks suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. Snowshoe programs are offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from January 7 to March 18 (weather and snow dependent). Participants should meet at the Apgar Visitor Center, where the walks begin and conclude. Snowshoes can be rented for $2 per pair for the walks at the Apgar Visitor Center. Participants should wear winter footwear, dress in layers for a variety of winter conditions, and bring water. For more information, or to confirm a day's outings when there is severe weather or possible insufficient snow, please call the Apgar Visitor Center (open Saturdays and Sundays only from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) at (406) 888-7939. Visitors are reminded that although the snowshoe programs are free, valid park entry is required.
During winter months, entrance costs $15 for a seven-day single vehicle entry. Annual Glacier park passes are also available for $35.

February 2008

Whitefish Winter Carnival XLVII (Annual) – Whitefish
February 2-4th, 2008 Whitefish Winter Carnival Schedule
The theme this year is movies, Whitefish Style. The Grand parade and Kiddie Carnival will be Saturday, February 3, 2006. Come join us and be a part of the fascinating mythology of Whitefish for the 48th year!!! Winter Carnival – Downtown Parade – Saturday February 3, 2007 – thousands of people come!

Rocky Mountain Bullriders Challenge – Majestic Valley Arena – Kalispell
Feb. 9th-10th, 2008 Bull riding starts at 7:00pm Doors open at 6:00pm
The Bull riding event will feature some of the best talent in the Northwest. Stock will be provided by C'N Stars Bull Company, Berger Bucking Bulls and Mark Ward Rodeo Company. $4,000 added professional bull riding. Full Concessions will be available.
February 9th and 10th 7:00 to 10:00pm General admission Adult $15 and Child 12 and under $6.00

March 2008

Majestic Winter Rodeo Series – Majestic Valley Arena – Kalispell
January - March – Bar W Sponsors
Doors Open at 6:00pm – event starts at 7:00pm and goes to 10:00pm
Come watch the exciting rodeo series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Events to include Bareback Riding, Saddle Broncs, Novice Bull Riding, Bull Riding, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Ladies Barrel Racing, Ladies Breakaway, Team Roping, Jr. Barrel Racing, Jr. Breakaway Roping... Buckles in each event based on points. Men's and Women's All-Around Saddles will be awarded. Featuring Brash rodeo stock and Pistol Creek Rodeo Bulls.
Tickets – FREE for Guests of the Bar W

NWMTPA – Team Penning – Majestic Valley Arena – Kalispell
March 17–18 & 22nd, 8:00am – 6:00pm
These Northwest Montana Team Penning Association sanctioned events will be held each listed weekend with the Team Penning on Saturday and the Ranch Sorting on Sunday. Team Penning is the fastest growing western equine sport in the U.S. where three riders attempt to pen identically numbered cattle in the fastest time. Riders are national competitors to the novice. Free to spectate and a great family event to watch. Held in the indoor arena.
Tickets – FREE

April 2008

Majestic Winter Rodeo Series – Majestic Valley Arena – Kalispell
April– Bar W Sponsors
Doors Open at 6:00pm – event starts at 7:00pm and goes to 10:00pm

Come watch the exciting rodeo series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Events to include Bareback Riding, Saddle Broncs, Novice Bull Riding, Bull Riding, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Ladies Barrel Racing, Ladies Breakaway, Team Roping, Jr. Barrel Racing, Jr. Breakaway Roping... Buckles in each event based on points. Men's and Women's All-Around Saddles will be awarded. Featuring Brash rodeo stock and Pistol Creek Rodeo Bulls.
Tickets – FREE for Guests of the Bar W
.

May 2008


11th Annual Murdoch's Montana Challenge Penning–Majestic Valley Arena
May 2nd through May 4th, 2008 Starting at 8:00am to 6:00pm
Join us for the largest Team Penning event west of the Continental Divide! This is a Northwest Team Penning Association sanctioned event with Big Purses. Over $20,000 in added money with an estimated $100,000 purse winnings. Whether you are competing or spectating, don't miss the excitement of the Montana Challenge.
General Admission $12 / ages 12 and under Free

3rd Annual Luke Warner Invitational – Majestic Valley Arena
Saturday May 17th, 2007
Doors Open at 6:00pm – event starts at 7:00pm and goes to 10:00pm
We welcome everyone to join us for the 2nd Annual LWI Bronc Ride. Check out the action on Saturday night at the Majestic Valley Arena featuring Bareback and Saddle Bronc riding along with an exciting Wild Horse Race all under one roof! 15 premier bareback riders and 15 premier saddle bronc riders have been invited to compete for the top score and $2500 added in each event. The bucking horses will be awesome as four different stock contractors are providing the roughstock, Jacobs Livestock Rodeo, Red Eye Rodeo Company, Whitford Bucking Stock and Brash and Son Bucking Horses. The top four in each event will come back to the First Interstate Bank Short Round. Buckles will be given to the top riders on a two head average. If that isn't enough action, you won't want to miss the Eisinger Motors Wild Horse Race. A minimum of five three man teams will try to saddle and ride darn sure wild, rank horses a designated distance around the arena. This will surely be one of the highlights.
Tickets – General Admission – Adults $12.00 - Children 12 and under Free
Hungry Horse Summer Slide & Hungry Horse Derby/Maturity Majestic Valley Arena
May 22rd-25th, 2008
Thursday through Sunday from 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. (Saturday 8:00am to 12:00 pm)
Montana Reining Horse Association (MRHA) will be hosting a reining show May 22rd-25th, 2008. In addition to the NRHA/MRHA ancillary classes, a four year old Open and Non-Pro Derby and a five and six year old Open and Non-Pro Maturity will be offered. Competitors from Montana, Idaho, Washington, Canada and other areas will be competing for payouts and prizes. Added money to the classes will be $33,900 with Lawson bronze trophies awarded in ten classes and buckles awarded in all classes. The show is free to the public and starts 8 a.m. Friday and concludes Sunday at noon. The Derby and Maturity are scheduled for Friday and Saturday evening. There will be a BBQ Friday evening. For more information check out the MRHA at MTRHA.com Full concessions will also be available.
Tickets – FREE
Bar W Guest Ranch Cattle Drive
May 24th through the 31st
Beginning on May 24th you’re invited to be part of a real special week. Riding, sorting, branding, and driving cattle. You’ll be moving back in time to an era when life was difficult but simple. No cell phones, faxes, e-mails, or palm pilots. Just horses, cattle, mountains, grass, your cowboy and cowgirl compadres and you! <More>
Hunter/Jumper Shows at Rebecca Farm
May 31- June 1
Rebecca Farm hosts a hunter/jumper show. Call for more information
June 2008


Cowgirl Up at the Bar W Guest Ranch
June 1st through the 7th
Retreat to the beautiful Bar W Guest Ranch on Spencer Lake in Northwest Montana for a 6 night / 5 day get-a-way. The Bar W is offering an all inclusive package for women to “Cowgirl Up” with their best friends, sisters, daughters, or just come alone and enjoy the camaraderie as the "girls" take over the ranch. This special package combines nature’s simplicity with western informality and provides you with a true Montana retreat to refuel your spirit and delight your body. <More>

Hunter/Jumper Shows at Rebecca Farm
June 21st and 22nd
Rebecca Farm hosts a hunter/jumper show. Please call for more information
"Meet Me In Montana" BRN4D Barrel Races / Majestic Valley Arena
June 28-29, July 19-20, Sept 6-7, Oct. 25-26 2008
9:00 am Sharp! Until we are finished
Come watch a full day of the Northwest's fastest Barrel Racers! This is one of the largest Barrel Races in the state of Montana. Racers will run all day long with a short lunch break. Come and watch girls get in the dirt and "turn and burn". Whether you are watching or competing you won't want to miss the action. Awards series for open, youth, senior, novice, all peewees will receive an award. For more information please contact Brooke Johnston at 406-837-3669. $2600.00 added.
Tickets – FREE
July 2008

Montana Quarter Horse Youth Association Show / Majestic Valley Arena
July 3-6th, 2008 / 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Daily
The Stampede 1000 Pro-Am Trail Sweepstakes will be held on Friday July 4th at 6:00 p.m. $1,000.00 added money. Youth, Amateurs and Professionals compete in all aspects of riding. They will be performing in riding, pleasure, trail and english classes while riding only American Quarter Horses. A benefit with proceeds supporting the Montana Quarter Horse Youth Association. The Western BBQ will start at 5:00 p.m at $12 per person. Come join us for dinner. We hope to see you here. Concessions available.

July 4th Celebration
July 4th 8:00pm – 12:00pm
Each year the Bar W rents two platoon boats and goes to the middle of Whitefish Lake to see the fireworks. Now, the fire works from the Town of Whitefish are something else, but all the residents on the lake take on the responsibility of putting on their own shows. It is quite a site from the middle of the lake.
Tickets $30 per person

The 57th Annual North American Indian Days (Annual) – Browning
July 10th – 13th – All day long
The celebration in Browning, Montana, is always held the second week in July for four days. It is an intriguing way to see authentic Blackfeet traditions. Tipis are pitched on the powwow grounds for four days of contest dancing, games, a number of sports events and socializing. Comprising one of the largest gatherings of United States and Canadian tribes, the celebration is an unforgettable experience. Once you hear and feel the mystery of the drum, see the traditional and fancy dancing, and the many proud Native people, then you will begin to understand the Blackfeet. This is one of the very best rodeos you will ever see.
Tickets are required for certain events.

The Event at Rebecca Farms (Annual)- Kalispell
July 24th,25th, 26th, and 27th Starts at 9:00am and goes all day
The Event at Rebecca Farms is Eventing at its finest. Eventing is an equine competition that includes the triple disciplines dressage, cross country jumping and show jumping. The same horse and rider team perform these three tests in three consecutive days. This is an event pulling in 10,000 spectators from around the world and should not be missed.
General Admission is Free

"Meet Me In Montana" BRN4D Barrel Races / Majestic Valley Arena
July 19-20 - 9:00 am Sharp! Until we are finished
Come watch a full day of the Northwest's fastest Barrel Racers! This is one of the largest Barrel Races in the state of Montana. Racers will run all day long with a short lunch break. Come and watch girls get in the dirt and "turn and burn". Whether you are watching or competing you won't want to miss the action. Awards series for open, youth, senior, novice, all peewees will receive an award. For more information please contact Brooke Johnston at 406-837-3669. $2600.00 added.
Tickets – FREE

Kellie Pickler & Phil Stacey - American Idols in Concert / Majestic Valley Arena
Saturday July 26, 2008
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with concert starting at 7:00 p.m.
Kelli Pickler, Small Town Girl, will be in concert at the Majestic Valley Arena on July 26th. Even before she made it to the finals of the fifth season on one of the most influential televised talents shows ever, signed a contract with 19 Recordings/BNA Records, criss-crossed the country with the American Idols Live! Tour 2006, Pickler has triumphed over what could have easily been her destiny. "There's a difference in running from your problems and overcoming them". Kellie's vibrant vocals, boundless energy, bubbly personality and refreshing honesty not only won over the judges, but endeared her to viewers as well, and she made it all the way to the top six, before being voted off the show.
Tickets:
Premiere VIP Seats Rows A-E $75.00
VIP Floor Seats Rows F-M $50.00
General Admission - Bleacher Seats $35.00

Canadian & American Cup Team Penning – Majestic Valley Arena
July 31st and August 1st-3rd 2008 – 9:00am – 6:00pm Daily
Come see the teams compete in this quick paced sport in which three riders attempt to pen identically numbered cattle in the fastest time. Riders are skilled and compete nationally for prize money. Great for the whole family to come and watch.
Tickets – FREE

August 2008

Huckleberry Days
AUGUST 8, 9, 10, 2008 – All times of the day
In the middle of August, Whitefish celebrates the native huckleberry. This annual arts festival hosts the finest Artists in the U.S. Browse through artwork, jewelry, paintings and crafts, all handmade and sold by the artists. Food vendors, kids activities and other special events accompany the festival.

Manntana Futurity and Derby Classic – Majestic Valley Arena – Kalispell
August 11th–17th, 2008 – 9:00am – 7:00pm
Come visit us these days for the Manntana Classic Reining & Futurity, NRHA & MRHA approved. Competitors will be competing in the incredible reining events. Over $100,000 in payouts with $20,000 added Open Futurity, $9,000 added Intermediate Open Futurity and $4,000 added Limited Open Futurity. Bob's Custom Saddles awarded to Open & Non-Pro Futurity Champions. Buckles awarded in every class. Plus a full slate of Anchillary classes with more than $15,000 added money. For premium and entry forms see www.manntanaclassic.com.
Tickets – FREE

The Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo – Kalispell
August 13th–17th, 2008 – 7:30pm
Don’t miss the THRILLS & SPILLS of the PRCA & WPRA Rodeo. With Kesler Rodeo Stock, the colorful depiction given by rodeo announcer; Bob Tallman. There are three evenings to choose from or take them all in, as many fans do. Get your tickets early to be sure you have a seat for the rodeo of your choice. Performances are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday each beginning at 7:30 p.m. After the last rodeo event each evening there will be a dazzling fireworks exhibition sponsored by “I’m lovin’ it” McDonalds.
Tickets adults $5.00 and Children 6 – 13 years FREE

September 2008

Hunter/Jumper Shows at Rebecca Farm
September 6th and 7th
Rebecca Farm hosts a hunter/jumper show.

"Meet Me In Montana" BRN4D Barrel Races - Majestic Valley Arena
September 6th-7th / 9:00 am Sharp! Until we are finished
Come watch a full day of the Northwest's fastest Barrel Racers! This is one of the largest Barrel Races in the state of Montana. Racers will run all day long with a short lunch break. Come and watch girls get in the dirt and "turn and burn". Whether you are watching or competing you won't want to miss the action. Awards series for open, youth, senior, novice, all peewees will receive an award. For more information please contact Brooke Johnston at 406-837-3669. $2600.00 added.
Tickets – FREE

Bar W Guest Ranch Cattle Drive!
September 20th through the 27th
Beginning on September 20, 2008 you’re invited to be part of a real special week. Riding, sorting, branding, and driving cattle. You’ll be moving back in time to an era when life was difficult but simple. No cell phones, faxes, e-mails, or palm pilots. Just horses, cattle, mountains, grass, your cowboy and cowgirl compadres and you! <More>

Western Super Finals Team Penning - Majestic Valley Arena
September 26th through September 28th 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Daily
Come and join in on the fun at the USTPA Regional Western Super Finals Team Penning. This is the combined regional finals for USTPA regions 5 & 9. Estimated $18,500 in combined added money & awards. Don't miss the opportunity to see how the Team Penning and Ranch Sorting is done. Join everyone Saturday evening for the SuperFinals Barbeque, included for all competitors. Non competitors may join in for $10 per person. Also full Concessions available.
Tickets – FREE

Cowgirl Up at the Bar W Guest Ranch!
September 28th through October 4th
Retreat to the beautiful Bar W Guest Ranch on Spencer Lake in Northwest Montana for a 6 night / 5 day get-a-way. The Bar W is offering an all inclusive package for women to “Cowgirl Up” with their best friends, sisters, daughters, or just come alone and enjoy the camaraderie as the "girls" take over the ranch. This special package combines nature’s simplicity with western informality and provides you with a true Montana retreat to refuel your spirit and delight your body. <More>

October 2008

Northwest Montana Team Roping Finals – Majestic Valley Arena – Kalispell
October 4th and 5th, 2007 – All Day 8:00am to 6:00pm
These Northwest Montana Team Penning Assocation sanctioned events will be held each listed weekend with the Team Penning on Saturday and the Ranch Sorting on Sunday. Team Penning is the fastest growing western equine sport in the U.S. where three riders attempt to pen identically numbered cattle in the fastest time. Riders are national competitors to the novice. Free to spectate and a great family event to watch. Held in the indoor arena with full concessions available. Contestants please contact Annie Britz at 406-257-5368Tickets – FREE

Montana Reining Cow Horse Association Derby – Majestic Valley Arena
October 9th – October 12th, 2007- 9:00am – 7:00pm Daily
Come and see one of the most exciting equine events where riders and horses match their skill against cattle. Fun for the whole family! Full concessions and bar available.
Tickets – FREE

Majestic Winter Rodeo Series – Majestic Valley Arena – Kalispell
October – 17th and 18th 2007 Doors Open 6:00pm – event starts 7:00pm goes to 10:00pm
Come watch the exciting rodeo series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Events to include Bareback Riding, Saddle Broncs, Novice Bull Riding, Bull Riding, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Ladies Barrel Racing, Ladies Breakaway, Team Roping, Jr. Barrel Racing, Jr. Breakaway Roping... Buckles in each event based on points. Men's and Women's All-Around Saddles will be awarded. Featuring Brash rodeo stock and Pistol Creek Rodeo Bulls. Full Concessions will be available.
Tickets – FREE for Guests of the Bar W

"Meet Me In Montana" BRN4D Barrel Races
Oct. 25-26 2008 9:00 am Sharp! Until we are finished
Come watch a full day of the Northwest's fastest Barrel Racers! This is one of the largest Barrel Races in the state of Montana. Racers will run all day long with a short lunch break. Come and watch girls get in the dirt and "turn and burn". Whether you are watching or competing you won't want to miss the action. Awards series for open, youth, senior, novice, all peewees will receive an award. For more information please contact Brooke Johnston at 406-837-3669. $2600.00 added.
Tickets – FREE

November 2008

Wahl Walkabout Tour with Clinton Anderson
November 1 & 2, 2008 Doors Open at 7:30 a.m.
Stuck in a horsemanship rut? Want to be the best rider that you can be? Like your horses to be safer and more respectful? Looking for new training techniques? Join world-renowned trainer and RFD-TV personality Clinton Anderson at a Wahl Walkabout Tour! Each of the tour stops is a non-stop, no-holds barred, two day learning packed equine extravaganza you won't want to miss. The tour features an ALL NEW format with exciting demonstrations, contests, prize drawings and more. See Clinton's world famous colt starting techniques that won him the Road to the Horse colt starting championship... twice in a row! Watch as Clinton takes problem horses and turns them into willing partners right before your eyes! Does your horse buck, spook, bolt, kick, shy or rear? Clinton will show you his proven techniques for safely and effectively turning your horse's fear and aggression into useful energy. Learn how to teach your horse to crave the safety and security of the trailer so he loads safely and reliably for you every time. Soak in the techniques Clinton gives you to get a horse soft, supple and collected on the ground and under saddle. You won't be able to wait to get home and try these techniques on your own horses! Shop and save with special bargains only available to tour attendees! Meet Clinton's horses, Mindy and Diez. Get up close and personal with Clinton. Ask him your questions or get him to autograph his new book for you. No other event of the year gives you more direct access to Clinton, his methods and his training tools. Don't miss out on the opportunity to improve your relationship with your horse!
Tickets:
Children - 16 years and younger FREE
Adult Advance Purchase - Two Days $25.00
Adult - Door Price or online each day $50.00
Event Show Times:
November 1, 2008 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
November 2, 2008 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Majestic Winter Rodeo Series – Majestic Valley Arena – Kalispell
November (Dates to be determined) Doors Open 6:00pm – event starts 7:00pm goes to 10:00pm
Come watch the exciting rodeo series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Events to include Bareback Riding, Saddle Broncs, Novice Bull Riding, Bull Riding, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Ladies Barrel Racing, Ladies Breakaway, Team Roping, Jr. Barrel Racing, Jr. Breakaway Roping... Buckles in each event based on points. Men's and Women's All-Around Saddles will be awarded. Featuring Brash rodeo stock and Pistol Creek Rodeo Bulls. Full Concessions will be available.
Tickets – FREE for Guests of the Bar W

Rocky Mountain Bullriders Challenge – Majestic Valley Arena – Kalispell
Nov. 28th and 29th, 2008 – Bullriding starts at 7:00pm Doors open at 6:00pm
The Bullriding event will feature some of the best talent in the Northwest. Stock will be provided by C'N Stars Bull Company, Berger Bucking Bulls and Mark Ward Rodeo Company. $4,000 added professional bull riding. Full Concessions will be available.
November 23rd and 24th 7:00 to 10:00pm General admission Adult $15 and Child 12 and under $6

December 2008

Whitefish Christmas Stroll (Annual) – Whitefish
December 5th, 2008 – Afternoon – Evening
Occurring on the fist Friday in December for the next 8 years, the annual Whitefish Christmas Stroll is sure to become one of your all time favorite events. Bundle up in your most festive holiday attire, put on that holiday smile and get ready to stroll through the streets of Whitefish as a kickoff to the holiday season. In addition to getting a start on your Christmas shopping by visiting all the local stores, you can treat yourself to a horse-drawn wagon ride, munch on roasted chestnuts or simply enjoy the enchanting sounds of the season. Carolers will be strolling, too.

January 2009

Snow Shoeing Through Glacier Park – Glacier Park
January 7th through March 16th 2009
Two-hour guided snowshoe walks suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. Snowshoe programs are offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from January 7 to March 18 (weather and snow dependent). Participants should meet at the Apgar Visitor Center, where the walks begin and conclude. Snowshoes can be rented for $2 per pair for the walks at the Apgar Visitor Center. Participants should wear winter footwear, dress in layers for a variety of winter conditions, and bring water. For more information, or to confirm a day's outings when there is severe weather or possible insufficient snow, please call the Apgar Visitor Center (open Saturdays and Sundays only from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) at (406) 888-7939. Visitors are reminded that although the snowshoe programs are free, valid park entry is required.
During winter months, entrance costs $15 for a seven-day single vehicle entry. Annual Glacier park passes are also available for $35.

February 2009

Whitefish Winter Carnival XLVII (Annual) – Whitefish
February 6, 7, and 8th, 2009 Whitefish Winter Carnival Schedule
The theme this year is movies, Whitefish Style. The Grand parade and Kiddie Carnival will be Saturday, February 3, 2006. Come join us and be a part of the fascinating mythology of Whitefish for the 49th year!!!
Winter Carnival – Downtown ParadeSaturday February 3, 2007 – thousands of people come!