West Yellowstone Events Calendar
For all the events listed here, the contact is through
the West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce unless another contact name
and number is provided.
Phone: (406) 646-7701. All events are subject to change without notice.
email: info@destinationyellowstone.com
October 2008
October 11, 2008: Old Faithful Fall Cycle Tour
Gather your friends together. Feed stations at Madison Junction and Old Faithful will keep your engines fueled while you provide the power. Ride all the way, or just until you're tuckered. A Ranger-led tour at Old Faithful, T-shirts, shuttles and dinner round out a great day.
Registration is limited. Contact: (406) 599-4465 or www.cycleyellowstone.com
November 2008
November 2, 2008- West Entrance to Yellowstone Closes to motorized traffic.
Winter over the snow travel by snowmobile or snow coach starts December 15, 2008.
November 25-29, 2008: The Yellowstone Ski Festival
This is a must for every cross-country skier! West Yellowstone literally comes alive in lycra in November. Hundreds of Nordic ski enthusiasts from all over the world, novice to expert, gather to learn more about the sport, practice techniques and see new equipment. Early snows, superb grooming, racing opportunities and the Nordic Skiing Exposition make this an especially inviting time. On-snow clinics take place between November 24-28. SuperTour Ski Races are scheduled for Friday and Saturday.
Web: www.yellowstoneskifestival.com and www.rendezvousskitrails.com (for races)
November 27, 2008: Biathlon Sprint Race
Held in conjenction with the Yellowstone Ski Festival November 25-29.
December 2008
December 11, 2008 - West Yellowstone Christmas Stroll
It's a time of rosy cheeks and laughter. Kick off the fun with the 6th Annual "Parade of Lights". There will be plenty of festivities for the kids and a Poker Stroll for the big kids (21 & over). Join your friends and neighbors as we light the Town Tree, greet Santa, and stroll the shops seeking just the right gifts.
December 12, 2008: National Guard Western Regional/NorAM Biathlon
Web: www.rendezvousskitrails.com
December 13 & 14, 2008: West Yellowstone Sled Dog Races
The yips of eager dogs will pierce the winter mornings as mushers prepare for the return of Sled Dog Races to West Yellowstone. After four-year hiatus, paws will pound across the Old Airport as sleds and mushers head off down the trail. Races begin at 8:30 both days with 12-dog teams the first off. 8-dog and 6-dog teams follow in order. Awards will follow Sundays races.
Conctact: (406)-646-4988 or email rodeosconcrete@msn.com
December 15, 2008 - West Entrance to Yellowstone Opens to Over-the-Snow Travel
December 20, 2008 - Spam Cup #1 – Classic Race
The first in a series of citizen’s races sponsored by WYSEF,
the Spam Cups are designed to be fun for everyone. Participants range
in age from 5 to 75 and first place is a can of Spam! Come join the
fun!
Web: www.rendezvousskitrails.com
December 2008 - Christmas for the Critters
Christmas for the Critters at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. Share in the joy of the season by donating food to the bears and wolves (please call the Center for specific food needs) and enjoy a snow filled day watching the animals play. Bring your donation and receive $1.25 off an adult regular admission, 10% off any gift shop purchase and the warm fuzzy feeling of helping the animals!
December 2008 - Christmas Bird Count
Join us for the 6th annual West Yellowstone Christmas Bird Count in conjunction with the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center and the Sacajawea Audubon Society. Enjoy a day of birding in the West Yellowstone and Hebgen Lake area. Meet at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center at 8:00 am $5 fee. Contact: (406) 646-7001
January 2009
January 2009: Harriman State Park of Idaho - Free Ski Day
Have you always wanted to try nordic skiing or want to take your family
but can't afford to? Want to learn how to build a survival snow cave? Idaho Falls Nordic Ski Patrol will be at the park offering lessons
to those that want to learn the basics to Nordic skiing. A guided ski
tour will be offered at 10:00 am that will take you up the River Trail
to the Historic Ranch. The Historic Jones House will be open to go inside
and warm up, and hot drinks will be available there.
Contact: (208) 558-7368
January 10,2009: Spam Cup #2 – Freestyle Race
The second in a series of citizen’s races sponsored by WYSEF, the Spam Cups are designed to be fun for everyone. Participants range in age from 5 to 75 and first place is a can of Spam! Come join the fun!
February 2009
February 14 & 15, 2009: Junior Olympic National Qualifier
February 15, 2009: Spam Cup #3 - Freestyle Race
The second in a series of citizen’s races sponsored by WYSEF, the Spam Cups are designed to be fun for everyone. Participants range in age from 5 to 75 and first place is a can of Spam! Come join the fun!
March 2009
March 7, 2009: Yellowstone Rendezvous Marathon Ski Race
Held on the first Saturday in March on the world-class Rendezvous Ski Trails, this event draws hundreds of cross-country skiers. With the blast of a black powder canon, racers sprint out to compete in a variety of age classes and distances in both classic and freestyle of 5 to 50K lengths. With grooming provided by Yellowstone Track Systems, this is arguably the best track to be found all year. The camaraderie and festive atmosphere have kept this an annual event, now in its 29th year. Contact: (406) 599-4465 or www.rendezvousskitrails.com
March 8, 2009: West Yellowstone Youth Festival
Only for kids and sponsored by the West Yellowstone Ski Education Foundation. The Youth Festival is an opportunity for our future Olympians, World Cup Skiers and National Masters competitors to participate in an event that is just for them. A series of fun events such as obstacle course, matched sprints, relay and speed trap are included.
Contact: (406) 599-4465 or www.rendezvousskitrails.com
March 15, 2009: Yellowstone Closes to Over-the-Snow Travel
Yellowstone's west entrance will reopen to vehicle travel April 17, 2009, when regular vehicle travel begins from the West Entrance.
March 12-15, 2009: World Snowmobile EXPO 2009
A terrific end and beginning for snowmobilers! The World Snowmobile Expo culminates a year of Sno-Cross racing for many Rocky Mountain competitors with four days of racing thrills. Then, snowmobile manufacturers and after-market companies strut their 2010 stuff at the exposition hall. Nighttime activities include a “Funny-Money” Casino night and plenty of laughs. Plan now to attend!
Exhibit Information Contact: Marge Wanner (406) 646-7895
Events & Activities: Visit: www.snowmobileexpo.com
March 28 & 29, 2009: Equinox Ski Challenge
The Equinox Ski Challenge is a 24 Hour nordic ski race. There will
be 6, 12, and 24 hour divisions open to both relay teams and solo entrants.
This event will raise funds for the West Yellowstone Ski Education Foundation
and Mania Youth Programs. Those bringing food donations for the West
Yellowstone Food Bank will be entered in a special raffle as well.
Contact: (406)-209-3533 or www.equinoxskichallenge.com
April 2009
April 1 - 16, 2009 - Yellowwstone Cycle Days!!
Ride in Yellowstone for free and before the Park is open to public
automobiles or buses. It's a perfect way to spend a day. From West Yellowstone
you can ride to Madison Junction and then to the Grand Canyon of the
Yellowstone or Mammoth Hot Springs (the road between Madison and Old
Faithful remains closed to all until later in April) . Feet and Roller
blades are welcome, too.
Web: www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/springbike.htm
April 17, 2009- West Entrance to Yellowstone Opens to Motorized Travel
West Yellowstone to the Madison Junction, Norris Junction and to Canyon
West Yellowstone to Mammoth Hot Springs
West Yellowstone to the Norris Junction
West Yellowstone to the Madison Junction to Old Faithful
May 2009
May 2009 - Spring Cycle Tour
Join us! This casual ride begins in West Yellowstone
and travels around Hebgen and Earthquake Lakes. Don't want to ride the
whole 60 miles? Not to worry - we'll provide a shuttle whenever you
feel tuckered. T-shirts, feed stations and dinner are also included.
Contract: (406) 599-4465 or www.cycleyellowstone.com
May 2009: Memorial Day Services
Each year our community honors those who have served our country in the armed services. Those who have bought peace through sacrifice. “In Flanders fields the poppies grow, betwixt the crosses, row on row…” We remember. The service is held at the Fir Ridge Cemetery, 9 miles north of West Yellowstone on US 191. Time TBD Contact: (406) 464-7701 after May 18th to inquire.
June 2009
June 2009: Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo
Born in the past to ease the cowboys’ boredom, today’s rodeos are pure excitement! Bareback Riding, Team Roping, Saddle Bronc Riding, Breakaway Roping and Bull Riding are just some of the scheduled events. Performances are at 8:00 pm each night and will be held at the Rodeo arena just 4 miles west of town. Join the fun!
Contact: (406) 560-6913 or www.yellowstonerodeo.com
June 11 - 14, 2008: Train Days
This day commemorates the arrival in West Yellowstone of the first Union Pacific passenger train filled with Yellowstone bound tourists in 1908. FREE admission to the Museum of the Yellowstone!
Contact: Yellowstone Historic Center (406) 646-7461 or www.yellowstonehistoriccenter.org
June 2009: Janet Clarkson Memorial Triathlon
Janet Clarkson was an avid participant in many racing events. Janet passed
away at age 37 from Ewing's Sarcoma, a bone cancer. This annual event
in honor of Janet, and for the benefit of the West Yellowstone School's
Scholarship Fund and the American Cancer Society, is held in and around
Janet's summer-time home, the Madison Arm Resort on Hebgen Lake. Considered
a mini-triathlon, there is a 1000 meter swim, followed by a 13.3 mile
bicycle ride and concludes with 5.7 mile run. An awards ceremony immediately
follows the competition.
Contact: Jack Clarkson at (406) 646-9328 or www.janetstriathlon.com
June 2009: Junior Smokejumper Program
Join a real smokejumber and learn about smokejumping, and become an official Junior Smokejumper. This FREE program is open to children ages 5-12 and will be held in the town park 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. Parent or guardian must be present at sign up 8:30 am. Bring a water bottle, walking shoes and sunscreen. Smokejumper Program Booklets and t-shirts will be available for a $5 fee.
July 2009
July 2009: Junior Smokejumper Program
Join a real smokejumber and learn about smokejumping, and become an official Junior Smokejumper. This FREE program is open to children ages 5-12 and will be held in the town park 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. Parent or guardian must be present at sign up 8:30 am. Bring a water bottle, walking shoes and sunscreen. Smokejumper Program Booklets and t-shirts will be available for a $5 fee.
July 4, 2009: Celebrating America
Our Fourth of July celebration this year carries the theme: Centennial Celebration! It includes some "down home" fun--outdoor barbeque benefit for the fire department, parade, music and fireworks (conditions permitting). Parade line up at 5:00 and parade starts at 5:30-6:00. fireworks start at 10:00 pm. Parade Registration [pdf]
July 4, 2009: Outdoor BBQ Benefit for the Fire Department
Enjoy an outdoor BBQ of hamburgers, hotdogs, chili, chips for $5 per plate with the West Yellowstone Fire Department in the Chamber of Commerce Parking lot from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm. Proceeds raised will support the Volunteer Fire Department for equipment and training. They will also be hosting a motorcycle ride and selling raffle tickets for a winter package.
July 4, 2009: Music in the Park
Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, picnics (although the Fire Department will be cookin' up their barbeque benefit) and the kids. Enjoy a casual evening of live music in the great outdoors! This summer's first evening of Music in the Park will feature regional and local talent with the feel of rhythm & blues. Fee of charge and begins in the Town Park immediately following the parade.
July 4, 2009: Big Brothers & Big Sisters Rummage Sale
This annual event to benefit the Big Brothers & Big Sisters of West Yellowstone will be held in the Town Park from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Contact Alicia Downs at (406) 646-1015 to donate.
July 2009: Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo
Born in the past to ease the cowboys’ boredom, today’s rodeos are pure excitement! Bareback Riding, Team Roping, Saddle Bronc Riding, Breakaway Roping and Bull Riding are just some of the scheduled events. Performances are at 8:00 pm each night and will be held at the Rodeo arena just 4 miles west of town. Join the fun!
Contact: (406) 560-6913 or www.yellowstonerodeo.com
July 2009: Yellowstone Historic Center Ball
This 7th annual event is a formal 1920's Ball held in the Union Pacific Dining Hall. Plan your finest costume to time-warp into a glittering evening. This year's ball will be a celebration of West Yellowstone's Centennial. The event features dinner, live and silent auctions and live music.
Contact: Yellowstone Historic Center (406) 646-7461 or www.yellowstonehistoriccenter.org
July 2009: Shakespeare in the Park
Join this casual evening of fun on the West side of the historical Union Pacific Dining Lodge. Bring your chairs or blankets, food, friends, and goodwill. Montana Shakespeare in the Parks brings professional productions at no cost to the public to communities throughout Montana, northern wyoming and eastern Idaho. The curtain goes up for this year's free performance of "All's Well That Ends Well" at 6:00 pm. Tonight's performance is being sponsored by the West Yellowstone Foundation (contributions are always welcome). We hope to see you there!
August 2009
August 14-17, 2009: 50th Anniversary of the Hebgen Lake Earthquake
Many of you remember that August night in 1959 when one of the most powerful earthquakes was ever recorded in Montana. The proposed schedule of events include: Geologic Guest Speakers, Survivor Talks and Guided Walks. A community sponsored picnic for 1959 Hebgen Lake Earthquake Survivors, rescue workers and families. Smokejumpers re-enactment jump and tales. Memorial Service. Events will be held in West Yellowstone, Earthquake Lake Visitor Center and along the Madison River canyon earthquake Area.
Contact: Joanne Girvin (406) 823-6965
August 29, 2009: Pineneedle Stampede --Foot Race
Run or walk! This relaxed race, a celebration of summer, has 8km and
10K events for adults and a kids' race, too; and has been named one
of the top thirteen most scenic race courses in the country. The traffic-free
route winds its way into the National Forest along the Rendezvous Trail
System. T-shirts, fruit and thirst quenchers are all included.
Contact:
Kelli (406) 646-7744
Register: www.active.com
Schedule: www.rendezvousskitrails.com/schedule.htm
August 2009: Junior Smokejumper Program
Join a real smokejumber and learn about smokejumping, and become an official Junior Smokejumper. This FREE program is open to children ages 5-12 and will be held in the town park 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. Parent or guardian must be present at sign up 8:30 am. Bring a water bottle, walking shoes and sunscreen. We can accommodate any large group of kids or adults.
Phone: (406) 531-6912
August 2009: Crazy Days
Enjoy the day shopping our downtown district. Merchants offer bargains in-doors and out where they offer a variety of shopping.
August 2009: Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo
Born in the past to ease the cowboys’ boredom, today’s rodeos are pure excitement! Bareback Riding, Team Roping, Saddle Bronc Riding, Breakaway Roping and Bull Riding are just some of the scheduled events. Performances are at 8:00 pm each night and will be held at the Rodeo arena just four miles west of town. Join the fun!
Contact: (406) 560-6913 or www.yellowstonerodeo.com
August 2009: 39th Annual Yellowstone Rod Run
Street Rod Heaven. Food, frolic, parade, showin' and shinin' and cruisin'. This year's event will be bigger, longer and better than ever to celebrate 38 years of this annual gathering.
Contact: Jerry or Terry Oksa (406) 646-9759 or www.yellowstonerodrun.freeservers.com
August 2009: 4th Annual Smoking Waters Mountain Man Rendezvous
Living History and Trader’s Row are the core of this opportunity
to experience the West and its people. Demonstrations of carding and
spinning wool, making butter and leather working; Seminars on Native
American Culture and the Fur Trade Era; Entertainment and Competitions
such as Cowboy Poetry, Storytelling, Black Powder Shoot, Knife and Tomahawk
Throws are all part of the ten day mix. The encampment will be set up
on the West side of town.
Contacts:
Vendor/Camper Info: Beverly Flitcroft: (970) 481-4593
email: cloakdrummer@yahoo.com
And Dale Bollman: (307) 568-2806
Entertainment and Volunteers: Brenda Nesbitt: (406) 646-7215
email: DMAWestYell@aol.com
Black Powder Shoot: Randy Foster: (406) 587-6265
email: muzzeleloadhi@prodigy.net
August 2009: Music in the Park
Enjoy an evening of live music in the great outdoors! Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, picnics and the kids. sit back, relax and be entertained Are you ready for some fun?!
September 2009
September 2009 - Holy Bucket Bluegrass Festival
This 5th annual Labor Day music event brought to you by Norris Hot
Springs is fun for the whole family. Traditional bluegrass, psycho grass,
jam grass as well as folk and other acoustic music genres are performed
by a talented group of regional professionals. Montana Grass-fed beef
and bison burgers on the grill, local brews on tap, and Water of the
Gods in the bucket for a relaxing soak. 4:00 - 10:00 pm. Cost $10
Contact: (406) 685-3303 or www.norrishotsprings.com
September 2009: West Yellowstone Foundation Golf Tournament
This golf tournament will again be held at the Big Sky, Montana's Arnold
Palmer designed course. Everyone is invited to join in the fun! This
is an event that you want to include on your calendar - and serves a
great cause, too!
Contact: Bonnie Hansen (406) 646-7775
September 2009: West Yellowstone Foundation "Happening"
One of THE social events of the year! Plan now to attend. A live auction will be held along with door prizes, raffle and other events of the evening. Everyone is welcome to attend so buy your tickets in advance.
Contact: Mary (406) 640-2030
September 2009: 54th Annual Knothead Jamboree: Square Dancing
For more than squares, there's rounds and lines, too! Beginner to pro, everyone's welcome to join in. A full weekend of calling, clapping and color for all ages!
Contact: George Moore (406) 252-4965
October 2009
October 2009: Old Faithful Fall Cycle Tour
Gather your friends together. Feed stations at Madison Junction and Old Faithful will keep your engines fueled while you provide the power. Ride all the way, or just until you're tuckered. A Ranger-led tour at Old Faithful, T-shirts, shuttles and dinner round out a great day. Registration is limited.
Contact: (406) 599-4465
Web: www.cycleyellowstone.com
November 2009
December 2009
