Missoula Downtown Association (MDA) Events

Every year the Missoula Downtown Association plans more than 70 public events for our Community with the goal of having as many admission free events as possible. We are proud to provide these long standing traditions to Missoula and excited to continue to build new ones.

Brewfest

Missoula's official start to the festival season, Brewfest has long been a favorite of locals and visitors alike. With more than 50 beers on tap, a wine bar, live music and delicious local food vendors, Brewfest kicks off annually at high-noon the first Saturday of May each year.

Downtown ToNight

Downtown ToNight is Missoula’s outdoor, after-work happy hour and features live music, exceptional food vendors and a beer garden. Downtown ToNight is held every Thursday evening from 5:30-8:30 pm from June-August.

First Friday Gallery Night

Most Missoula galleries celebrate their new exhibits on the First Friday of the month. Many stay open until 8pm or later and serve a suprising array of refreshments. You won't want to miss the chance to experience Missoula's arts community.

Garden City River Rod Run

The Garden City River Rod Run is Missoula's premiere classic car show held annually the last weekend in June in beautiful Caras Park. Hundreds of classic cars join the festivites including the Friday night Cruisin' Parade on Higgins Avenue and two day Show and Shine.

Out to Lunch

Inaugurated by the MDA in 1985, Out to Lunch is the longest-running performing arts festival in the state of Montana. It attracts thousands of people to Caras Park every Wednesday from 11 am to 2 pm in June, July and August. Out to Lunch features some of Missoula’s best food and performing artists from throughout the region.

Parade of Lights

Every year the MDA kicks off the holiday season with a day of free family activites that brings holiday shoppers Downtown for the Santa’s Arrival, holiday carolers and performers, hot cocoa and cookies, all culminating with the annual Parade of Lights and annual Lighting of the Christmas Tree at Circle Square.

River City Roots Festival

Missoula's signature celebration of the city we live in, Roots Fest attracts more than 10,000 individuals to the heart of the community for a variety of fun activities and was named the 2009 Montana Tourism Event of the Year. This "must-see" event features quality live performances on a big stage on West Main Street, a juried art show, entertainment for children and families and a 4 mile run. This admission free festival takes place annually the last weekend in August.