Central Montana’s Great Falls has much to offer throughout the year by way of events, gatherings, and festivals. There is a strong community spirit behind many of the activities, and some of the main events like the Ice Breaker Road Race and the Easter Egg Hunt are due to the efforts of The Park and Recreation Department.
Various other events are organized with a sense of support for the local culture through the promotion of local traditions and community events. Throughout the year the focus is always on building and maintaining the renowned Great Falls spirit and sense of community.
Plenty of events have become annual traditions in Great Falls, and we’ll feature popular events in Great Falls, Montana that you won’t want to miss. You can also check out the many small, regular events and special evenings that occur constantly within the community HERE.
Top Events in Great Falls, Montana
PRCA Circuit Finals Rodeo – January
Rodeo fans from near and far to Great Falls will be excited to hear of the Montana PRCA Circuit Finals Rodeo. This occurs in January and features three nights of professional rodeo action, including Top Pro Rodeo contestants competing for the title.
Other events include Bull Riding, Cowgirl’s Breakaway, Roping, Saddle Bronco Riding, Steer Wrestling, and Team Roping, and there’s always plenty of lively action, entertainment, and refreshments on hand.
January 12-14, 2023 is the date to be at the Four Seasons Arena, where the event kicks off on Thursday at 7:00 pm and winds up late Saturday. Performances are at 7 pm nightly, at the Montana ExpoPark in Great Falls.
Easter Egg Hunt – April
The annual Easter Egg Hunt is held at Gibson Park and is aimed at kids between the ages of around 1 and 9 years old. The three different egg hunt areas are designated according to age groups, namely 1-3 year-olds, 4-6 year-olds, and 7-9 year-olds—so all is fair.
It starts at the south end of the park at 11:00 am, typically on the Saturday before Easter. Apparently, the eggs can start to disappear pretty quickly so entrants need to be prompt and lined up before the kick-off.
Ice Breaker Road Race – April
For fitness and running enthusiasts, the annual Ice Breaker Road Race is the largest attraction of its kind throughout the year in Great Falls and occurs sometime in April (last date 23rd).
There are typically thousands of participants—whether running competitively, jogging, or walking in either of the 2 different courses, which cover 5 miles and 3 miles respectively. The 5-mile event starts first at 1 pm and is followed by the other two on the hour, with all races starting in front of the Civic Center on Central Avenue.
Registrations for the race usually begin around the time of Monday, March 6th at the Park & Recreation Department or online.
The race has been featured in Runner’s World Magazine as one of the top 100 road races in the nation and is accommodating to families and fun runners as well as elite athletes.
It has become something of a Great Falls tradition now spanning four decades, and all participants receive a finisher medal.
Western Art Week – March (15-19)
Great Falls transforms into the Western Art Capital of the World for a special 5-day festival in March (15-19 is set for 2023). The event features various aspects of Western Art in different venues, with the works and exhibits covering everything from oil, watercolor, and sculpture in various styles.
From classic to modern contemporary interpretations, attendees can expect to witness plenty of bright and colorful displays. Participants will also find the classics like the works of C.M. Russell alongside some lesser-known artists and Native art.
There are also a number of featured live music performances, auctions, and other associated activities. The venues typically include places like the Montana ExpoPark, the Wine Snug at the Dark Horse, the First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park, the Heritage Inn, the Great Falls Lodge, Great Falls Convention Center, and more!
You can check out the day-by-day events in more detail HERE.