Here in Montana, you know when that crisp air seeps in and the leaves start to change color that autumn is on its way. One of our favorite ways to celebrate this transition from summer to fall is with great local beer, of course! If you're a craft brew enthusiast, you're in luck - today brings two incredible fall beer events that highlight the best of Montana brewing. Between the 2nd Annual Oktoberfest in Big Sky and the Montana Brewers Fall Rendezvous in Missoula, you're in a for a treat with live music, delicious food, and an unbeatable selection of local craft beer. 

2nd Annual Big Sky Oktoberfest (Big Sky, MT)

According to the Missoula Current, about 27 percent of Montana residents are of German descent. Whether you have German heritage, or are just a fan of their culture, you're in for a world of fun this weekend up in Big Sky! From September 20-22, 2024, you'll have the opportunity to raise your steins and show off your lederhosen at 2nd Annual Big Sky Oktoberfest! Hosted at the Big Sky Town Center, this 3-day festival blends Montana’s spirit with classic German tradition.

Kick off the weekend with a Biergarten featuring Munich’s legendary Paulaner beer alongside local craft brews. Enjoy traditional German cuisine including bratwurst, currywurst, giant pretzels, and more!

If you're the type to get involved in hands-on fun, you'll love participating in the steinholding competition, dancing to music from DJ Swamp Moose, and playing fun games like Hammerschlagen and cornhole. If you're the competitive type, don't forget to join the Lederhosen 2-Mile Fun Run on Sunday morning and celebrate with post-race festivities.

Single-day admission is just $10, or grab single-day admission plus two drink tokens for $28 on Saturday and Sunday. Don’t miss out on the fun, food, and festivities – all to support youth sports scholarships in Big Sky! 

Montana Brewer Fall Rendezvous (Missoula, MT)

If you're on the western side of Montana, head down to Missoula for the Montana Brewers Fall Rendezvous! Saturday, September 21, 2024, will be a day full of fun at Caras Park. Over 32 breweries from across the state will be pouring over 110 varieties of Montana-made brews!

If you have VIP access, you can get in from 3:00-4:00 PM, featuring an exclusive live performance by Neal Elder, a popular country singer. For General Admission, starting at 4:00 PM, you'll enjoy listening to a set full of pop/americana-inspired music from Love is a Dog, a Missoula favorite.