Bozeman Magazine DECEMBER 2024

DECEMBER 2024 - VOLUME 18.7

Beyond The Cold And Dark Cover Artist: Travis Anderson Top 10 Affordable Lunch Spots

GREATER YELLOWSTONE EVENTS CALENDAR ADD YOUR EVENTS TO THE DATABASE FOR FREE!

IN THIS ISSUE / FEATURES DECEMBER 2024 - VOLUME 18.7 6 / LETTER TO EDITOR MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD 10 / VISUAL ARTS COVER SHOT - TRAVIS ANDERSON 12 / GV REAL ESTATE LUXURY HOMES MARKET REPORT - T FORD 14 / FOOD & DRINKS THE WESTERN CAFE INTERVIEW - A RIPPLE THE HAUFBRAU - BOZEMAN’S PAST AND PRESENT - S JONES 20 / MONTANA MUSIC MAESTRO - BOZEMAN SYMPHONY’S NEW ERA - P STEBBINS DEAD & DOWN/DESPERATE ELECTRIC WESTERN DISCO - LOGJAM

MADELINE HAWTHORNE - LOGJAM

24 / STAGE & SCREEN ANNIE AT THE ELLEN - S JONES HALLMARK IN MONTANA - J CAIROLI 25 / SUN SIGN HOROSCOPE BLACK ROSE SPIRITUAL CENTER - DR NIKKI 28 / LIVING LOCAL

A COOKIE FOR YOUR THOUGHTS - S JONES

PROPER USE OF MONTANA’S CENTER TURN LANES - MHP

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING IN BOZEMAN - S MCGANN

WHEN THE WEST CALLS - M TESTA

RAG DOLLS AND AIR RIFLES - R PHILLIPS

34 / REC & HEALTH BEYOND THE COLD AND DARK - S MCGANN WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS - J BEYL TOP 10 AFFORDABLE LUNCH SPOTS - R PORTER 50 / GREATER YELLOWSTONE EVENTS CALENDAR

WWW.BOZEMANMAGAZINE.COM/EVENTS

email: angie@bozemanmagazine.com

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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EDITOR’S NOTE

HOLIDAY CHEER Angie Ripple

D

riving down Willson Avenue on a winter evening in December is something I look forward to each holiday season. I love the curve of the road heading toward downtown, winter’s leafless tree canopy, stoic historic homes on either side, and a beautiful, dazzling, colorful display of Christmas lights from end to end. Willson’s extremely large pine near the corner of Mason Street glows brilliantly in blue light even before December’s page turns on the calendar, welcoming all passersby to the season of giving.

Once Willson has led you all the way to Main Street on the first Saturday evening of December, you may run right into Santa Claus cruising Main on a wagon, summoning holiday cheer—this year, to start off Bozeman’s 44th Christmas Stroll.

The first Saturday of December is historically abuzz with holiday traditions, from children’s art activities to a burlesque-inspired Holiday Noir performance at the Emerson, to The Nutcracker at the Willson Auditorium, the annual Gingerbread House Contest display, the lighting of the Menorah and, hopefully, another Bobcat post-season game. All of this holiday cheer all in one evening is sure to set you up for with a heart for the holidays.

This month, look up while visiting downtown Bozeman; you will see the iconic holiday decorations at four intersections on Main Street, affectionately known to many locals as Christmas Spiders. Twenty-four feet of wire and tinsel cascade from above, while twelve streams of showy glitz stretch out from each center cone to create the iconic ornamentation. Images of a winter in Bozeman would not be complete without a shot of Main Street lit up in gold, white, green and red above a snow-filled street below, so be sure to get your picture taken downtown this December.

Tradition, especially this time of year, can be a way to soothe and comfort ourselves and create peace and calm in an often overly busy, overstimulated world. If you are seeking new holiday traditions that will provide peace for you and your loved ones, our events calendar is a beautiful place to start. It includes free events and learning experiences, as well as holiday options that may not be free, but will certainly leave you with memories that will last forever. A sleigh ride in Big Sky, a performance of Annie at the Ellen, the Bozeman Symphony’s Holiday Spectacular are all great annual traditions to add to your quiver.

I wish you a happy holiday season, and ask that you give as much as you get this season. There are many citizens struggling to make ends meet, to put Christmas dinner on the table, let alone gifts under the tree. If you can spend $125 on a Christmas Eve meal, consider sharing that amount with a community member who will remember your kindness every Christmas to come. W

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Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

B ZEMAN MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2024 - VOLUME 18.7

PUBLISHER CASEN CREATIVE SALES MANAGER, EDITOR ANGIE RIPPLE PRODUCTION MANAGER, MUSIC EDITOR BRIAN RIPPLE COVER ARTIST TRAVIS ANDERSON / HEADER PAGES 6+10: ROBERT ROYHL PHOTOGRAPHY GALLATIN HISTORY MUSEUM, BRIAN RIPPLE, SYDNEY JONES, ANGIE RIPPLE, LINDSEY HOVE LETTER TO EDITOR MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD - POLITELY SUBMIT DISCONTENT SEND YOURS TO: INFO@BOZEMANMAGAZINE.COM GV REAL ESTATE TIM FORD FOOD & DRINKS SYDNEY JONES, ANGIE RIPPLE MONTANA MUSIC BRIAN RIPPLE, BOZEMAN SYMPHONY STAGE & SCREEN SYDNEY JONES, JESSICA CAIROLI LIVING LOCAL RACHEL PHILLIPS, SYDNEY JONES, STEVE MCGANN, MICHAEL TESTA RECREATION & HEALTH STEVE MCGANN, JEFF BEYL, RACHEL PORTER HOROSCOPE NIKKI JUDGE, BLACK ROSE SPIRITUAL CENTER EVENTS CALENDAR - ADD YOUR OWN EVENTS AT: bozemanmagazine.com

CALENDAR SPONSORSHIP IS AVAILABLE. EMAIL: ANGIE@BOZEMANMAGAZINE.COM

THE BASICS Bozeman Magazine features a local artist on every cover

and contributions from talented local writers each month. Every attempt has been made to provide our readers with accurate, dependable information about things which make the Bozeman area unique. Distributed to over 150 locations in the Gallatin Valley, and on MSU’s campus, well over 20,000 people enjoy Bozeman Magazine every month. We think you will too.

CONTRIBUTING Bozeman Magazine relies on the hard work of creative

local people to keep our flow of information going. If you would like to become a contributor in writing, art, or photography please email us at info@bozemanmagazine.com to learn how. Every attempt is made to include accurate information, however, our writers and staff can NOT be held responsible for misprinted information.

FIRST COPY IS FREE ADDITIONAL ARE COPIES $1.00 EACH

All writing, photos, and artwork remains property of the author, photographer, or artist. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of Bozeman Magazine staff or advertisers. Send feedback, comments, suggestions, questions to: info@bozemanmagazine.com CONTACT INFO WEB: bozemanmagazine.com EMAIL: info@bozemanmagazine.com OFFICE: 406-219-3455 • CELL: 406-579-5657

TO ADVERTISE OR FOR MORE INFORMATION contact: info@bozemanmagazine.com or 406 219-3455

LOCAL & INDEPENDENT SINCE 2007

ALL MATERIAL ©2024, CASEN CREATIVE - BOZEMAN, MT

44TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS STROLL DECEMBER 7, 2024 • 4:30PM - 7:30PM DOWNTOWN BOZEMAN

CONTRIBUTORS

ANGIE RIPPLE - PUBLISHER Angie makes Bozeman Magazine happen all while wrangling her three children and adventuring with her husband and living the Big Sky dream.

BRIAN RIPPLE - PUBLISHER Brian enjoys camping with friends and family, and running sound for live events and bands. He’s an artist, dog lover, and music editor of this magazine.

CYNTHIA LOGAN - COPY EDITOR Cynthia Logan has been a freelance writer and editor for nearly three decades. She assists individuals and corporations to further their branding.

NIKKI JUDGE - HOROSCOPE Nikki is a spiritual counselor and life coach who is happily serving those who have chosen a solo spiritual path.

SYDNEY JONES - BAR BEAT As a native Montanan, Sydney enjoys exploring the outdoors with her dog Mae. She is an aspiring writer with a love of art, animals, and adventure.

KATHLEEN JOHNS - MT MUSIC Kathleen Johns is the owner/ founder of Mantra located in Bozeman, MT. Kathleen holds a degree in English Literature from MSU/Bozeman and is an avid high altitude gardener.

STEVE McGANN - RECREATION Steve McGann has lived in Bozeman since the 1970s. Now retired, he is trying to finally use his history degrees. Or he is in the hills.

TIM FORD - REAL ESTATE Tim Ford is a Broker / Realtor® with Bozeman Broker Real Estate in Bozeman Montana.

RACHEL PHILLIPS - HISTORY Rachel Phillips is the Research Coordinator at the Gallatin History Museum in Bozeman.

CRYSTAL ALEGRIA - HISTORY Crystal Alegria is the Director of The Extreme History Project.

KEVIN BRUSTUEN - SCREEN & STAGE Kevin Brustuen lives in Bozeman and can be contacted at kbrustuen@hotmail.com. He is an avid theater-goer.

KATIE THOMAS - DINING Katie Lineberger Thomas was born and raised in Bozeman. She can usually be found writing, cruising farmer’s markets, building campfires, and critiquing restaurants with her friends.

RACHEL PORTER - TOP 10 Rachel is a writing major in her senior semester of college. If she’s not writing, she is likely drawing, gaming, or herding her mischievous chickens.

EUDORA ELLER - LIVING LOCAL Currently studying English at Montana State University.

Through her writing, her goal is to share experiences from a local’s perspective, and to connect and engage with her community.

JEFF BEYL - REC & HEALTH Seattle-based writer, Jeff Beyl, has been published with work on fly-fishing, nature, the ocean and music. His book, A Conversation With the Earth was recently released.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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LETTER TO EDITOR

WHAT’S YOUR BEEF? THE IDIOM TO HAVE A BEEF MEANS TO HAVE A COMPLAINT ABOUT SOMETHING, TO HAVE A DISAGREEMENT WITH SOMEONE, TO BE DISSATISFIED WITH SOMETHING. THE WORD BEEF TO MEAN A COMPLAINT, DISAGREEMENT OR DISSATISFACTION CAME INTO USE IN THE UNITED STATES IN THE 1880S.

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD

OUR BEEF? WHAT’S YOUR BEEF? WHAT’S YOUR BEEF? WHAT’S YOUR BEEF? WHAT’S YOUR BEEF? WHAT’S YOUR BEEF? 8

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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COVER ARTIST

COVER

SHOT

TRAVIS ANDERSON T

ravis Andersen came to Bozeman to attend MSU in the early nineties and never left. Since that time, he has become a fixture in the local art scene, as well as in the ski community. His photos have appeared in numerous publications, and his fine art prints can be seen in homes and businesses throughout the valley, and beyond. Travis is inspired by a life lived in the mountains of Montana and on the slopes at Bridger Bowl. He and his wife Alicia have a son, Mikey, who attends Gallatin High School and loves to ski and play soccer and football.

In recent years, Travis and Alicia have created a collection of vintage style poster art that captures the spirit of historic travel posters from the past. The posters are often created from photos Travis takes and paintings Alicia makes from those photos. They have several ski, fishing, and Yellowstone inspired images that they sell online and in local shops. The cover image is the latest addition to the Bridger series, and will be available this winter.

Travis also runs White Creek Printing, a service dedicated to providing other artists and photographers with the highest quality fine art prints available in Bozeman. If you are a local artist, contact Travis for more information on custom printing for your art business. For more information, and to view his photography and the vintage style poster line, visit WhiteCreekArt.com. A

www.WhiteCreek Art.com 10

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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GV REAL ESTATE

LUXURY HOMES

MARKET ANALYSIS

Tim Ford – Real Estate Broker

A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

Let’s take a look at how the high-end real estate market in Bozeman has evolved over the years. Back in 2007, only 24 homes sold for over $1 million in the area. The following year, in 2008, that number dipped slightly to 22 homes.

Fast forward to last year, and there were over 13 times that amount, with 288 homes surpassing the million-dollar mark sold in 2023. This year, the trend remains robust, with 283 homes already sold above that threshold as of November 15th, plus another 51 pending sales. These figures include all types of residential properties—condos, single-family homes, and townhouses—both inside and outside Bozeman city limits.

With the median home price hovering near $800k for homes inside city limits, and north of $900k when including homes outside city limits, what exactly defines the Luxury Market in Bozeman?

BREAKING DOWN SALES

BY PRICE SEGMENT

To better understand market dynamics, I segmented residential sales into $500,000 price bands. For consistency, only sales from the first 10.5 months of each year are included to allow an accurate comparison for 2024 data. These again include all types of residential properties in the greater Bozeman area:

GROWTH IN THE LUXURY SEGMENT

The influx of out-of-state buyers in 2020 drove significant growth in the high-end market. By mid-November of that year, 119 homes had sold for over $1 million—an increase of more than 50% compared to 2019. The momentum continued into 2021, where sales more than doubled, reaching 243 homes sold in the same timeframe. Although the overall number of transactions has slowed the past three years, as prices have continued to climb, sales above $1 million have also increased, or held steady. Two hundred sixty-two homes sold above $1 million in the first 10.5 months of 2022, 257 sold last year, and 283 homes have been sold to date this year.

The market for homes above $2 million has also continued to expand, nearly doubling from 29 sales in the first 10.5 months of 2020 to 53 in 2022. Last year saw a small dip to 44 sales, but this year it’s up again significantly, with 75 sales closed to date north of $2m. Notably, the price segment between $2m and $2.5m has increased significantly this year.

CASH TRANSACTIONS AMID RISING INTEREST RATES

Despite the increase in mortgage rates over the past few years, the proportion of cash purchases for homes above $1 million has remained relatively stable. The peak was in 2018, with 65% of luxury sales being all-cash deals. In 2019, nearly half (46%) of these transactions were cash. That figure held around 53% in 2020 and dipped slightly, to 48%, in 2021. In 2022, it dipped again, to 43%. This year and last year were up, and nearly identical, with just over 50% of the sales of homes above $1 million bought in all cash.

BIG SKY’S HIGH-END MARKET INSIGHTS

Big Sky has also seen notable activity in the ultra-luxury market. In 2021, 39 properties sold for over $4 million, with prices per square foot exceeding $1,000 on average. The numbers were similar in 2022, with 36 sales in this range. However, last year saw an uptick, with

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Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

45 transactions, and this year, despite a general slowdown in overall sales, the ultra-luxury market in Big Sky surged, with 55 properties sold year-to-date above $4 million. These figures do not include sales within the Yellowstone Club, nor custom-built residences.

REAL ESTATE MARKET DATA

JANUARY 1 - NOVEMBER 1, 2024

CURRENT MARKET SNAPSHOT

Finally, let’s look at the latest real estate statistics for single family home sales in the greater Bozeman area, including Four Corners, Gallatin Gateway, Bridger Canyon, and within Bozeman city limits. As of now, the total number of closed transactions is down slightly from last year—569 this year compared to 603 at the same point last year.

Additionally, there are currently 78 pending sales, nearly on par with the 82 pending at this time last year.

Note: The data includes only sales reported through the Big Sky Country MLS, and excludes private party sales. G Tim Ford is a Realtor® with Bozeman Brokers Real Estate in Bozeman Montana. He can be contacted at 406-209-1214.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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FOOD & DRINKS

Angie Ripple

T

he Western Cafe holds the title of being Bozeman, Montana’s longestrunning restaurant. Operating since 1933 (and possibly earlier), the building at 443 E Main St has been serving meals for going on 100 years. It was known as The Eat a Bite, the Nickel Lunch, and the Cottage Cafe, all before becoming the iconic Western Cafe we know today.

In 2008, Sue Sabena took the reins of The Western Cafe and, alongside her daughter Julie Gandulla and a dedicated team, they have preserved this beloved diner as a beacon of Montana history. Julie, who recently relocated from Bozeman to Michigan due to rising home prices and property taxes, spoke with me over the phone to chat about what has changed at the Café, and what hasn’t.

If you haven’t been to The Western in a while, there’s no need to worry—it hasn’t changed. And if you do visit after reading this, be sure to tell Sue and the team hello from Bozeman Magazine. On my most recent visit, I had what I consider the perfect classic breakfast: the High Traverse, served

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with bacon, eggs over easy, sourdough toast, and hash browns.

ANGIE RIPPLE: How was The Western Cafe conceptualized? Since it’s been around so long, let’s start from when your family took over. What was the vision starting from there?

JULIE GANDULLA: Right, yeah. Well, that’s a good question. I don’t think people are really aware of what we walked into. The old owners were amazing, but they were… they were over it. So when we walked in the door, our vision was to take it back to what it was when I was little. And that was scratch cooking with local ingredients, and just revitalize it.

In 2008 we went in, cleaned it up, and got some new equipment in there that helped with the efficacy of it. We also spent the next decade rebuilding the building. It’s ancient, and was in severe disrepair, so we went in with love and elbow grease and put every dime we had into the building and the quality of the product. Just last year we put a new roof on.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

[The concept is old school] You buy from your neighbors and you buy clean product.

All of our eggs are local—one hundred percent local. We get them all throughout Montana, and that’s a pretty big feat for us, because we go through thousands of eggs.

Doing it local and doing it where it’s not just local, but they’re actually free range. That’s what we do, and not a lot of people know that, but we feel like it’s the right way to go.

We get money back to people throughout Montana, and to some in Idaho, cause, you know, we take a lot of eggs, so it kind of has to have a far reach. We feel like that’s how it ought to be, and that’s how it was. It’s not just like some newfangled green thing to do, or a hippie thing to do. No, that’s how it used to roll. That’s how it always used to be.

So we did that throughout the whole place. Everything down to [the fact that] my mom has a garden in back that helps with the watershed. We have completely compostable stuff. We don’t use any single use plastics.

Our permeable sidewalk… all of our cleaning ingredients; I think over eighty percent of our continued on next page

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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Cateye Cafe p.14 cleaning ingredients are actually made in Montana.

So, we are always bringing it back to Montana.

AR: What would you like people to experience when they walk through your doors?

JG: I’d like them to experience the real Montana. I’d like them to experience the neighborly place that I was raised in.

I was born in Bozeman; I was raised that when you drive past somebody, you wave. When you walk past them on a trail, you smile. When you sit next to them at a counter and eat, you talk.

That’s what we hope people get—that sort of neighborly feel, that feeling of acceptance. You can just walk in and be who you are; come as you are and enjoy it in a community.

AR: What would you say makes The Western unique in the Bozeman food scene?

JG: I’d say the simple, home cooking. It’s really just wholesome, tasty, fresh food.

And the breakfast-lunch scene, where it’s sort of like you roll on in and have eggs and hash browns (out of Manhattan); it’s nice just to have that kind of simple stuff.

And there’s room for all the others of course, as well, but I do think that’s what makes us unique—the scratch cooking, real, simple, fresh food. We do it on old school, cast iron and flat tops.

AR: What do regulars keep coming back for?

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JG: I mean, I do think it’s the food. We get nothing but compliments on our food. For instance, our biscuits and gravy, a total family recipe. And we’ve had people come in and say it’s the best biscuits and gravy they’ve ever had.

So I do think it’s the quality of the food, but I also think very much that the atmosphere harkens to a much simpler time. But I don’t mean that in the phrase that’s being flung about right now—that is about as opposite as I mean it. I think that, more than anything, when they walk into the cafe, they experience less noise.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

There’s no internet, you know? My mom oftentimes will have people close their laptops, or put their phones down. She’s been known to go and take their phones and make them talk. There’s that community, that connection. So, fresh food, and community connection. You’re talking to people, sort of forced to do it by the owners. I think, more than anything right now, people are really starved for that. They’re starved for community, even though I know we’re bombarded all the time with people talking to us and having access to us. It’s a very, very different quality of interaction. So, when I say a

443 E. MAIN ST. • BOZEMAN (406) 587-0436 www.thewesterncafe.com

FOOD STYLE

Diner with breakfast and lunch

DRINKS

Coffee, Water, Iced Tea, Juice

HOURS

6am - 2pm everyday

VIBE

Cozy, Friendly, Retro Western Diner simpler time, I mean more like quality over quantity.

AR: What menu item do regulars keep coming back for?

JG: Chicken fried steak, hands down. Our chicken fried steak is excellent. That was my grandpa’s recipe, we just do it really, really well. And the sausage gravy goes over the top of it. So that’s a fantastic one.

AR: What is your personal favorite menu item?

JG: I really like our huevos. We make the salsa in house, and it’s so good. You know, simple… but really, really flavorful. And then I also like The Bobcat.

We take our cinnamon rolls and cook them French-toast-style. Not so great for the pant line, but so fun.

AR: What do you personally enjoy most about being part of the Bozeman community?

JG: Oh, geez, that’s hard. I mean, I love the mountains around us. I love that we all get to enjoy the rivers around us, the mountains around us. I mean, that’s the number one thing, honestly, for me. And having to move away makes me homesick. But when I come back every three months or so to help out with the cafe, that’s what I miss the most when I leave. Even though it’s changing, that’s in part why we left. I think that, at its core, Montana is still Montana. And I feel privileged to be a part of a place like The

Western, which keeps that light alive, almost like a lighthouse, or a candle lit for the community, to let people know we are Montana.

And I know that sounds silly because it’s a breakfast joint, but every time we choose something, it’s thoughtful. And that’s how I was raised. You keep your neighbors in mind.

You know, I could buy eggs cheaper. I’m not going to do that. My success is their success.

Oh, I can build this sidewalk? I’m not gonna build it like we always have. It’s just a thoughtful thing I’m gonna do.

I’m gonna build the first permeable sidewalk in Bozeman.

That’s Montana. It’s thinking for each other long-term, and being that kind of steward.

Every step we take is in the spirit of that stewardship and community, and we’re not gonna go out without a fight.

PRICES $$

The Western Cafe isn’t just a place to grab a bite; it’s a piece of Bozeman’s history, a reminder of the town’s roots, a nostalgic place, and a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. The Western remains a testament to the hard work, dedication, and community spirit that have shaped Bozeman over the years. Whether you’re a longtime regular or a first-time visitor, a stop at The Western Cafe promises a taste of history alongside a warm, welcoming atmosphere that’s truly hard to find anywhere else. W Angie Ripple is co-creator of Bozeman Magazine, and is often hungry.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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FOOD & DRINKS

THE HAUFBRAU BOZEMAN’S PAST AND PRESENT Sydney Jones

A

s the end of 2024 nears and the Gallatin Valley continues to grow and change, Bozeman locals hold on tight to the fact that there will always be somewhere fun and familiar to take a seat, enjoy a drink and feel as if you’re back in the old Montana. Close enough to campus but still just minutes away from the new buildings and pop up shops of downtown awaits the Haufbrau. A dive bar filled with moments and never-ending memories to be made.

What classic Bozeman will always be, no matter the year. The Haufbrau is the place to leave your mark behind, let someone know you were there, even if in your own simple way.

The Haufbrau, a vortex in what used to be known as the Barmuda Triangle, is one of the two remaining bars in this original trio. Since the closure of The Scoop, only The Molly Brown and the Haufbrau House continue on in the mysterious area where nights might be lost, but many friends made. With the support of a loyal fanbase and an incredible open mic venue for community artists, the Hauf stays an important piece of Bozeman nightlife, surely one to last. Since opening in 1961, they have consistently served local favorites, including delicious burgers and sandwiches, fresh fries and cold, refreshing drinks. With more beers on tap and mixed drink options than you could imagine, it is the perfect place to pop into any night of the week for dinner and a local show.

Entering the front door is an experience in itself. The pull of music is immediate, but guests often find themselves distracted by the entryway walls, littered with tiny scraps of paper, once stapled-up

BOZEMAN BAR BEAT 18

posters that have long since been removed, hung by people who by now have likely come and gone, too. A part of them has been left behind in the smallest of ways. New posters pile atop the old remnants, announcing upcoming shows and concerts, lost pets, and even blacksmithing lessons—a little something for everyone to be a part of.

On any given night inside the bar, glowing with neon lights and signs, you can almost always find a cool band sharing their tunes with guests. With Sunday through Wednesday reserved for open mic night, musicians or comedians wanting to try out new sets can set up shop and continue all night long.

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday are reserved for hot new bands that both Montana State students and alumni are eager to see live, which brings in a crowd of different people there to enjoy the same moment together.

Upon taking a seat at a high top or more cozy table, you’ll find an endless amount of names and images etched into each and every wood surface throughout the bar.

Tables, benches, chairs, no matter the use, are scattered with initials, silly pictures, and unknown messages meant to remain in the memories of the night they were carved. At quick glance, you’ll notice circles on almost every available spot on the walls and ceilings. Upon closer reflection, you’ll see that they, too, are tables, each branded in the center with a distinct year. Surrounding those prominent numbers are all the many people who sat there and found it necessary to leave something behind. Any uncarvable surface finds itself adorned with stickers or permanent markers, not to be forgotten.

BOZEMAN BAR BEAT BOZEMAN BAR BEAT BOZEMAN BAR BEAT BOZEMAN BAR BEAT BOZEM

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

Tacked and stuck upon these carvings sits the unique artwork adorning the walls. Above the area where the bands play, a nude Greek Goddess stands poised upon the waves, her outstretched arm directing a beam of light straight at the artists below. As if to remind them that even in the midst of artistic transcendence, there’s room for a little humor, signs scattered throughout the venue deliver unexpected wisdom. One in particular catches the eye: “You can always re-take a class, but you can never re-live a party.” Not to mention the endless amount of ‘No Dogs Allowed’ signs, despite furry friends often sleeping on the cool checkered floor. Other quirky works of art catch the eye, and no matter the number of times you may have stopped in, there is always something new to see.

Past the music and the bar sits an old-style candy dispenser, a keno machine, and a pool table for anyone looking to play, except on nights when a popular band takes center stage. On those evenings, the pool table is moved, the bar darkened, and the music blasted as

MAN BAR BEAT

BOZEMAN BAR BEAT

BOZEMAN BAR BEAT

the Hauf fills with excited fans looking to support a local up-and-coming band. On these nights, the Hauf truly comes to life, with lights and music bringing passersby on the corner of Main Street and 8th Ave. to a standstill, luring them in.

As alluring as the interior of the Hauf is, the outside is not to be ignored. Against a dark Montana night, the bright white, vertical sign catches the eye, shining down on an incredible blue and white tag made just for the Hauf. In a parking lot bustling with nightlife you’ll find guests of all ages walking from one bar to the next, sharing in the buzz of a classic Bozeman night. Although the triangle might be gone, the spirit of the Barmuda continues on, thanks to the life of the party, the Haufbrau. Z A native Montanan, Sydney Jones enjoys exploring the outdoors with her dog, Mae. She is an aspiring writer with a love of art, animals, and adventure

BOZEMAN BAR BEAT

BOZEMAN BAR BEAT

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

BOZMAN 19

MONTANA MUSIC

MAESTRO USHERS BOZEMAN SYMPHONY INTO A NEW ERA

Peggy Stebbins

S

eptember 2024 marked a special milestone for the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra as Maestro Norman Huynh began his fifth season as music director. Since being chosen in 2020 from six finalists out of 238 applicants, the orchestra’s first Asian-American conductor has made a profound impact, drawing new audiences and elevating the Symphony to unprecedented heights.

As Music Director, Norman curates each season’s repertoire, rehearses the ensemble, and brings every performance to life with his distinct vision. His passion for music, combined with his industry acumen, has steered the Bozeman Symphony to new levels of excellence. Under his vibrant leadership, the Symphony has expanded from three to ten full-time staff members and had tremendous growth in its subscriber base and ticket sales.

Norman’s tenure was recently extended through the 2028-29 season, cementing his long-term commitment to the orchestra. Since his arrival, the Symphony has experienced record success, growing from 881 to over 1,325 subscribers, with ticket revenue soaring over 200 percent. Increased demand from audiences eager to experience the artistry that Norman brings to Bozeman has led to the launch of three- and four-show weekends.

“It’s incredibly fulfilling to perform with such talented musicians and for a community that deeply values classical music,” Norman reflects. “I’m continually moved by the way our audiences respond to the music—it’s an emotional experience for us all.”

Norman has earned widespread acclaim for his dynamic conducting style, innovative programming, and his ability to connect with both seasoned and new concertgoers. His leadership has not only redefined the Symphony’s artistic direction but has also expanded its reach within the community. The conductor’s programming reflects Bozeman’s cultural fabric, enriching concertgoers’ experiences and ensuring the Bozeman Symphony remains an integral part of the region’s arts scene.

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Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

Concert attendees often praise Norman’s charisma on stage, enjoying his engaging commentary from the podium and spirited presence during performances. His baton moves expeditiously, mirroring his energetic style, while his passion for the music radiates through every note the orchestra plays.

Under his guidance, the Symphony has expanded its offerings to include pops and movie-music concerts, alongside its core classical repertoire. Guest artists from around the world have graced the stage, bringing their talents to Bozeman’s vibrant music scene.

While embracing new forms of symphonic performance, Norman remains deeply committed to classical music as the foundation of the Symphony’s work. “Each concert is a unique experience,” he says. “There’s an irreplaceable power in live music, and when audiences are deeply moved, it’s a moment that stays with them forever.”

Board of Directors Chair Ben Phinney applauds Norman’s transformational impact: “Norman is an exceptional talent, and we are fortunate to have him. His leadership has brought a warmth and depth to our music-making that is truly inspiring.”

Looking to the future, Norman envisions the Bozeman Symphony becoming a household name in Montana. The remarkable growth in subscribers and ticket sales supports this vision, as the community rallies around the orchestra’s mission. Sold-out concerts have become so common that additional performances have been implemented to meet demand. Under Norman’s direction, the Symphony has also become a leader in commissioning new works and collaborating with renowned soloists.

Norman’s goals for the Symphony extend beyond the concert hall. He’s focused on building a high-caliber orchestra with full-time musicians and strengthening community engagement through programs like Far Afield, Joy and Access Concerts, Symphony Storytimes, and KinderKonzerts. These initiatives bring music to

underserved communities, schools, and rural areas, reinforcing the Symphony’s role in enriching lives through music.

A longtime advocate for a state-of-the-art concert hall, Norman envisions a venue in Bozeman that reflects the growing cultural stature of the region.

The Bozeman Symphony currently performs at the Willson Auditorium, a former middle school auditorium with limited space and acoustics. Norman is working with other arts organizations to make this dream a reality, aiming for a facility that will serve as a cultural hub for Montana.

In the next decade, Norman sees the Bozeman Symphony as one of the West’s most ambitious orchestras. “Bozeman is home to an extraordinary community of artists, and we have the potential to create something truly impactful,” he says. “I’m excited to see where we can take this Symphony—and the arts in Montana.”

Outside the Symphony, Norman maintains an active schedule as a guest conductor with orchestras across the nation, including the New York Philharmonic, Seattle Symphony, and Minnesota Orchestra, among others. In his downtime, he enjoys stargazing, riding his motorcycle, and spending time with his wife, Catherine Young, and their infant son, Romeo.

Reflecting on his journey, Norman shares: “Music elevates, inspires, and tells our stories. The Bozeman Symphony has made such an incredible impact on this community, and I’m honored to be part of that story.” S Peggy Stebbins is the Marketing and Communications Director for the Bozeman Symphony.

HELP KEEP THE MUSIC MOVING! The Bozeman Symphony depends on the generosity of the community to keep the music moving. This year, the Symphony has an ambitious goal of raising $300,000 for its annual fund campaign to support performances as well as vital education and community programs across the region.

Donations account for two-thirds of the Symphony’s annual budget. Support from the community is needed to pay for everything else--from the talented musicians and guest artists on stage to community engagement programs that bring music into schools and underserved communities. Contributions also help the organization maintain day-today operations that keep the Symphony running smoothly.

In the past season alone, the Bozeman Symphony achieved remarkable milestones:

1,325 LOYAL SUBSCRIBERS 19,966 TICKETS ISSUED TO PATRONS FROM 60 MONTANA COMMUNITIES AND 40/50 STATES 47 FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS 9,320 PEOPLE ENGAGED THROUGH OUR OUTREACH PROGRAMS By donating to the annual fund, supporters are helping preserve the rich tradition of live symphonic music in Bozeman, ensuring that future generations can experience the joy of music.

Make a difference by donating before December 19 at bozemansymphony. org/giving, or by mailing a check to Bozeman Symphony, 402 East Main Street, Suite 202, Bozeman, MT 59715. For more information, call (406) 585-9774.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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MONTANA MUSIC

LogJam presents

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he Dead & Down are an exploratory roots-rock band inspired as much by the vast landscapes and dramatic mountain ranges of their Montana home as they are by the myriad musical influences that weave through their sound.

Based around the introspective songwriting and dusty vocals of frontman Taylor Burlage, the band navigates sonic trails between rust-flecked alt country and swampy rock ‘n’ roll, with detours through psychedelia and genre-bending experimentation. They have opened for the likes of Paul Cauthen, Futurebirds, and the Last Revel and have hit the stage at Under the Big Sky Music Festival, Red Ants Pants Music Festival and more.

Their recently released sophomore album, No Broken Bones, displays the sound of a band hungry to find out what lies beyond the next ridge and only just beginning their journey.

Desperate Electric is a blissful matrimony of futuristic R&B and retro dance grooves, Desperate Electric’s idiosyncratic approach to songwriting and production has garnered them national acclaim in the span of a few short years. The duo’s live shows are typified by effortless vocal harmonies, uninhibited showmanship, and lethal musical prowess.

Desperate Electric’s discography is a

testament to their versatility. Their soulful pop sound is infused with elements of funk, R&B, and disco, resulting in a fusion of timeless melodies and modern production.

With catchy hooks, thought-provoking lyrics, and irresistible beats, their music is both uplifting and deeply resonant, serving as a soulful soundtrack for life’s triumphs and tribulations.

Logjam Presents is pleased to welcome The Dead & Down and Desperate Electric for a NYE Western Disco at the Rialto on Tuesday, December 31, 2024.

Tickets are on sale now and available to purchase in person at Logjam Presents Box Offices and online while supplies last. All tickets are general admission standing room only. All ages are welcome. D

“The Dead & Down have a sound that doesn’t fit into one bin. They combine elements of Country, Americana, and Rock for a sonic experience that stays interesting. Their new song, “Switchbacks” has a solid country-rock feel, but the break in the middle is a lot more akin to prog rock. It’s a combo that works!” – Bob Wall, KGVM Bozeman

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Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

MONTANA MUSIC

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL

LogJam presents

The miles we travel make up the stories we tell.

The soles of your favorite boots or the tread on your prized car’s tires soak up the experiences and wisdom of the road under your feet.

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ogjam Presents is pleased to welcome Madeline Hawthorne with openers Signal Fire for a live in concert performance at the Rialto on Saturday, December 14, 2024.

Born in New England, based in Bozeman Montana, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Madeline Hawthorne pens the kind of tunes you listen to on a cross-country trek to start anew or in the dead of night when you just need a reminder that somebody’s listening.

In this respect, her 2024 independent album, Tales From Late Nights & Long Drives, serves as a fitting soundtrack to life’s trip.

“It’s the perfect road trip record,” she affirms. “It was mostly written while I was on tour. If the songs were written at home in Montana, I took inspiration from journal entries and memories of my travels. This is me stepping onto the stage with more miles under my boots. I’m giving into the moment and the melody to tell a story. It’s like eleven different versions of me—a woman I could have been, a woman I perhaps thought I was, and a woman I hope to be someday.”

Online tickets went on sale October 4, and are currently available to purchase in person at Logjam Presents Box Offices while supplies last. All tickets are general admission standing room only, and foe this show all ages are welcome. M

MUSIC SCENE • BACK LOCAL MUSIC INDUSTRY EFFORTS • EDUCATE YOURSELF ABOUT YOUR LOCAL MUSIC SCENE. CAN YOU NAME 6 BANDS FROM YOUR AREA? • DONATE WHAT YOU CAN, TIME & MONEY • ENCOURAGE VENUES & FUTURE MUSICIANS • SHARE THE WEALTH, SPONSOR A BAND • ATTEND EVENTS REGULARLY, BUY MERCH • SUPPORT ARTIST EFFORTS, SHARE STREAMS turnuptoeleven.com

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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SCREEN & STAGE MONTANA THEATREWORKS PRESENTS

AT THE ELLEN Sydney Jones

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his December, Montana TheatreWorks and The Ellen Theatre present ten wonderful performances of the beloved Broadway musical, Annie. Opening Wednesday, December 11th and running Wednesday through Sunday through December 22nd, the show offers a downtown delight for you and your family to get into the holiday spirit. With evening shows starting at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3:00 p.m., it’s the perfect winter evening or afternoon activity!

With incredible crown moldings, eyecatching lights twinkling throughout the theatre, and intricate carvings, The Ellen is the perfect place to enjoy a snowy afternoon while taking in the scenes of Annie.

Guests can purchase tickets at theellentheatre.org at prices of $38 each, $48 each or $64 each, depending on which area they’d like to view from. The lower-priced tickets still offer an amazing showing from the second balcony. The mezzanine and main floor come with a higher price tag, but are worth it for the best seats in the house. Anyone interested should secure their tickets as soon as possible, as December productions are known to sell out, and tickets are already going quickly.

Boasting a vibrant voice and outstanding presence, Maddisen Sheedy takes center stage as Little Orphan Annie. Having played the role of Molly in prior productions, she came into the most recent auditions ready to share her talent and dedication to the stage. After a long, grueling audition process, she rose above the 45 others vying for the role, claiming the lead after callbacks. In an added touch of sentiment, Maddisen and her mom, Cheryl Sheedy, will be onstage together this month, starring as Annie and her surrogate mother, Grace Farrell. Having starred in other shows, such as previous productions of Annie and Mary Poppins, her mom inspired Maddisen’s love of musical theater.

When asked about the relevant social issues portrayed in the musical, Maddisen had an encouraging take on the matter. She

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Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

emphasized the importance of staying positive despite any negativity that may arise. Appreciating Annie’s optimism and encouragement throughout her story, she cites the song, “Maybe” as her favorite part of the show, stating; “It shows who she (Annie) is, what she longs for.

[It] shows that she is not going to give up.”

I recently had a conversation with the lead behind the curtain, Director and Producer John Ludin, who was cool and calm, though he spoke with an air of excitement. He has long awaited the opportunity to put on Annie as the winter production, and when the rights became available this year, he knew it was the perfect opportunity. Having written and directed stage shows for Disney Live among other impressive achievements, he is well experienced, and ready to put on an impressive holiday show. Speaking highly of the cast of 24, he credits their dedication and talent for how wonderfully the musical has come

together. He admitted that, while the rehearsal phase is long, he loves to watch it grow organically, leading to the most rewarding part—listening as the audience reacts and enjoys the scenes they have worked hard on as a team for months.

John also made sure to give special thanks to every member of the Annie crew, including those behind the scenes: Derek Bannasch, musical director; Roger Castellano, choreographer; Tom Watson, scenic designer; Stacy Hostetter, costume designer; Peter Fedock, lighting designer, and Ashley Milleson, sound designer. He noted that Annie couldn’t have come together without all the hard work of these wonderful members of the cast and crew, including the 16-piece orchestra, and Sandy, the dog.

Montana Theatreworks is pleased to welcome special guest artist, Michael DeVris, who has flown in from New York for the month of December to star as Daddy Warbucks. DeVries is incredibly pleased to be performing in Big Sky Country for the first time. He now has logged 30 States, five Canadian Provinces, and three foreign countries in his professional travels. This is his fifth production of Annie – he has been in the ensemble, and played the role of Rooster; this will be his third portrayal of Daddy Warbucks. Among his many other stage credits, DeVries spent more than ten years in multiple roles on Broadway with Wicked. His TV credits include “Sex & the City,” “Law & Order,” “All My Children,” “The District,” “Philly,” and “Law & Order – SVU.” With multiple performances nearly sold out already, be sure to secure a seat at Annie this December. With Maddisen Sheedy as Annie, alongside Susan Miller as the main antagonist, Miss Hannigan, and special guest Micheal DeVris as Daddy Warbucks, this year’s musical is sure to please. All the hard work put in by cast and crew alike will certainly lead to an unforgettable holiday experience, a production you don’t want to miss out on. A As a native Montanan, Sydney enjoys exploring the outdoors with her dog Mae. She is an aspiring writer with a love of art, animals, and adventure.

SUN SIGN HOROSCOPE DECEMBER 2024 ARIES: As you make your travel plans, it is best to not attempt travel on the 15th when the Moon and Stars do not favor travel. Unexpected money should be set aside for an unexpected expense such as replacing a major appliance. Hold your temper on the 11th.

TAURUS: There’s plenty of planetary activity with two New Moons, a Full Moon, Pisces going direct in Neptune, and Mercury stationing to move direct on the 15th, there are plenty of opportunities for surprises and unexpected events. Host a holiday dinner.

GEMINI: With two New Moons this month (1st and 30th) giving an extra kick to your holiday let’s have some fun vibe. You’ll be the first to accept or send out invitations. You are ready to enjoy the holidays and enjoy convivial entertainments with friends.

CANCER: Need a break before the holidays really ramp up?

The week of the 9th is the best time and you may even find some great breaks on airfare and lodging. With two New Moons this month you have plenty of rejuvenating energy for the holiday season.

LEO: It’s all about the new this month. You have two New Moons (1st in Sagittarius, 30th in Capricorn) are lending lots of invigorating energy for your holiday season. Mecury returns direct on the 15th, making later month holiday even more enjoyable.

VIRGO: Once Neptune goes direct in Pisces (7th), the party is on. When you aren’t being the host/ess with the mostess, you are sure to be attending all the best parties in town. Contract negotiations are in your favor after the 10th. Complete travel by the 6th.

LIBRA: You are going to have plenty of times favorable for familia conviviality. The 4th should have you spending time with family, and especially your partner. The 10th should be all about expressing love and gratitude.

Try to filter impulse spending.

SCORPIO: Those great changes announced at work are coming, they are slowed by Mars turning retrograde on the 6th. However, on the 14th positive financial news is heard. Mercury turns direct in Sagittarius on the 15th impacting earned income.

SAGITTARIUS: With two New Moons (1st in Sagittarius, 30th in Capricorn) bordering the month, you are going to be busy with holiday activities. Give to your favorite charity – especially those that feed or house the homeless.

CAPRICORN: Your holidays are assured with lots of energy to create a great month of December. Hold off until the 22nd for departure to visit family for the holiday. Better yet, host parents and in-laws to create a holiday that strengthens familia bonds.

AQUARIUS: Pre-holiday sales on the 9th helps you stretch your holiday budget. With two New Moons this month (1st in Sagittarius, 30th in Capricorn), granting a chance for much needed down time after the 30th. Follow a hunch on the 3rd to the best gift.

PISCES: It’s a tale of two New Moons. The first in Sagittarius setting a perfect scenario on a Sunday for you to make your plans for the upcoming holiday season. Then the New Moon in Capricorn which occurs on the 20th has you ready for peace and quiet.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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SCREEN & STAGE

in Montana Jessica Cairoli

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allmark movies are a corny Christmas staple, and have been nationally heralded for decades, and although they’re not everyone’s cup of hot cocoa, it’s impossible to deny their lasting cultural impact. Widely beloved for their relatability and playful storylines, the brand is named appropriately; these movies are true hallmarks of every holiday season. Usually filming one to four movies per year and running about 40 on their channel over the course of the holiday, Hallmark has an almost overwhelming catalogue for viewers to choose from. Classically predictable plots involving returning home for the holidays, rekindling past relationships, and reluctantly taking over charming family businesses have earned them the reputation of heartwarming consistency.

However, audiences commonly forget about Hallmark’s unique array of creative ideas. Their content covers a variety of subject matter, including everything from maritime adventures (Christmas Sail, 2021) to a holiday identity swap between estranged twins (Switched for Christmas, 2017). With something for everyone, part of Hallmark’s charm comes from its applicability to many viewers and situations, even settings not often present in holiday content. Although most Montanans enjoy how our beautiful state can slip to the wayside in media (staying as secluded as possible), it’s not uncommon to want to see a Western-themed movie or two come Christmas time. Luckily for us, Hallmark is no stranger to Montana-centric holiday films, having released one movie that was set in our magnificent state, along with another

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from a similarly warmly cheesy company, Lifetime. Christmas in Montana (2019) and Lifetime’s Mistletoe in Montana (2021) are the perfect opportunities to enjoy some sentimental Montana cheer. I’ve taken it upon myself to watch both movies to give you my thoughts on these fun-filled tales of Montana holidays, so that you can discover the whole family’s new favorite yuletide film.

Movie #1:

Christmas in Montana SUMMARY: Christmas in Montana stars Sara, a widowed financial advisor from Los Angeles who is tasked with traveling to the Carson family ranch in Big Fork, Montana to ensure that they can pay off a loan to cover losses from a recent drought. With her phoneobsessed daughter Chloe in tow, the two meet stubborn but charismatic rancher Travis Carson at a local holiday market. Sara and Travis have immediate chemistry, but vastly different priorities. While Sara wants to work tirelessly to find ways to make the ranch profitable, Travis prefers to involve her in Montana holiday traditions; her efforts at financial advising dissolving into decorating their barn, attending the Carson family Christmas bonfire, and visiting the ranch’s free Christmas tree farm. Amidst the yuletide bustle, the pair struggles to find a solution for the ranch’s fiscal struggles that doesn’t involve letting any of the hired help go, while also attempting to navigate their blossoming romantic attraction under the time limit of Sara’s stay in Montana.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

MY THOUGHTS: As a viewer of many Hallmark movies, Christmas in Montana exceeded my expectations. While a romance storyline is a staple of any Hallmark film, this movie also includes the touching relationship between Sara and her daughter as the two rediscover the magic of Christmas after the passing of Chloe’s father. Christmas in Montana was more multi-faceted than expected, and moving in a variety of ways.

ACCURACY TO MONTANA CHRISTMASES: Much to her annoyance, Travis, a Montana local, consistently attempts to convert cosmopolitan Sara to a slower pace of life, which he calls “Montana time.” Greeting each passerby by name as he walks down the street, and offering free services to fellow townspeople whenever he can, Travis embodies the caring and generous nature of many Montanans, particularly around the holidays.

WOULD I WATCH IT AGAIN NEXT YEAR? If we are lucky enough to have Hallmark run Christmas in Montana on their channel in the coming years, I would happily rewatch this quirky western classic.

FAVORITE QUOTE: “That’s what’s great about life here, connecting with people. You know, sitting together, talking. We take our time and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.”

FINAL RATING: 8/10

Christmas in Montana

WOULD I WATCH IT AGAIN NEXT YEAR? Although Mistletoe in Montana was a fun watch, it doesn’t seem like the kind of movie that requires multiple viewings to fully appreciate its complexities.

I expect I’ll move on from it in the coming seasons.

FAVORITE QUOTE: “I always say when you find true love, run to it. Preferably on a horse.”

FINAL RATING: 4/10

Movie #2:

Mistletoe in Montana SUMMARY: In Mistletoe in Montana, independent, spirited cowgirl Merry and her widowed father, Stan, welcome single dad Mark, his two children, Becca and Timmy, and their nanny, Debbie to their ranch for a Christmas getaway. While awkward ranch cook Jasper immediately hits it off with Debbie, Merry and Mark find that they have a difficult time understanding each other.

Mark, a software engineer from Los Angeles (whose unique accent leads me to believe he might hail from the U.K.) doesn’t see how Merry could lead a fulfilling life never leaving Paradise Ranch, and Merry is bothered by his closed-mindedness. However, Mark gradually comes to see the value in the simple, connected life enjoyed by Merry and her father through a whirlwind of holiday activities; the pair ride horses, engage in a spirited baking competition between Mark’s gingerbread French toast and Merry’s S’more variation, enjoy a festive square dancing session, and prepare for the upcoming Christmas parade (that Merry so generously signed the family up for without consulting them). However, what seems like the making of a beautiful romance is complicated, as Mark and his family are set to leave the ranch on Christmas Day. Mark and Merry struggle to navigate their feelings for one another amidst what could be their impending separation, while doing their best to enjoy the Christmas season to its fullest.

MY THOUGHTS: It appears that storylines for Montana holidays are few and far between in the Hallmark and Lifetime universes. The parallels

between this movie and Christmas in Montana were numerous, and both would likely have been more enjoyable if not watched within the same day. Still, the predictability is charming, and the film certainly got me in the holiday spirit. However, the two leads were exceptionally devoid of chemistry, and the romance between them was often difficult to sit through. Their montages of forced eye contact backed by pop music were something I would have to skip if watched again.

Jessica Cairoli is a Gallatin Valley native who loves all things Bozeman, and writing. She started her freshman year at Montana State University this fall.

ACCURACY TO MONTANA CHRISTMASES: My biggest qualm with this movie is the lack of snow. Amidst green grasses and fall leaves, Merry diligently tends to what appears to be one acre of pasture while the city slicker characters complain about the cold in light jackets and flannels. Though some characters make damage-control references to that year’s unseasonable warmth, their efforts do very little to restore the absent winter atmosphere. About 30 minutes before the film’s end, we see the movie’s only snow squall, the severity of which greatly worries the ranch’s inhabitants, though the slowly falling flakes never cover more than an inch of the ground. Nonetheless, Mark and Merry find themselves stranded in a secluded barn while trying to rescue lost cattle from the perilous conditions, though the grass still peeks through the apparently un-traversable ground. Montana locals and tourists alike prize Christmases here for the snowy winter wonderlands they become, something this movie missed the mark on (although they try to make up for it with the inclusion of Paradise Ranch’s strange affinity for extravagantly decorated holiday barns).

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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LIVING LOCAL

A COOKIE FOR YOUR THOUGHTS Sydney Jones

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s December arrives, it brings with it many predictable things.

Soft twinkling lights, warm cozy fireplaces, and, of course, a beautiful Montana snow. Oftentimes, the weather is so cold and storms so brutal, we find ourselves housebound with nowhere to go. On these cold and frigid days, I always find myself reaching into the back of my cupboard for my book of recipes, all passed around my family and friends. This December 4th, make sure to bring out your best recipe and celebrate National Cookie day, as I intend to do.

I am no great baker. It’s a tedious hobby I don’t do much of throughout the rest of the year. Yet there is a uniqueness about the snow and the cold that inspires me to fill my house with the warmth of an oven, paired with the sweet smell of sugary delights. More than anything, baking brings the holidays to life, makes them feel real and near. It reminds me of the inability to sleep before a Christmas morning, lying next to my brother in a makeshift fort in his bedroom.

It takes me back to the stockings overflowing with candy and handpicked gifts, eliciting endless family memories.

Growing up in a small town, we always braved the winter, no matter how daunting. Bundling up and traveling across the state to see family and friends was just another part of the holidays. As kids, we didn’t mind. We brought bags full of presents, and trays full of treats to share with cousins, aunts and uncles, and grandparents. It was an exciting time, full of laughter and close knit families— not only my immediate family, but those we visited, too. What always stuck out to me was that everyone would be together.

No matter where we went, there was always an ample amount of food and a bag of baked goods, pre-packaged and ready for us to take home. The same way we brought our own, others were there to share their baked goods, having labored in the kitchen for hours, knowing those closest to them would eventually arrive and share in the sweet treats. More than love, it was always an act of trust and comfort, knowing you would see those you care about the most near the holidays.

My favorite treats were always the cookies my mom and I made together from a recipe handed down from my grandparents. Every year, we forgot how big the batch was, and ended up with way more cookies than we ever needed. Saving some for ourselves, we ended up giving them away to anyone who would take them. Each time, something unexpected and hilarious would happen mid-baking, sometimes even forcing us to start over, but the cookies always turned out

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Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

exactly as we remembered them from the year before.

My first year of college at Montana State University, I was unable to make it home for the holidays. Due to work commitments and treacherous weather, I decided to remain in Bozeman, where I would spend my first holiday alone. It was a choice I didn’t think much about—until Christmas Eve came and I had no tree, no holiday lights, and no one I loved to share the day with. The sadness would’ve lasted into the new year, another ‘first’ spent alone. But something incredible started to happen. Each day, the delivery of my mail brought a package from a different family member. Inside, I found homemade cookies bundled up and ready for me to eat.

Finally, just before January 1st, the final package arrived, from my mom and dad. Alongside the gifts and the stocking full of my favorite things, there was an unexpected addition—a huge bag full of my favorite cookies. I opened them up and took a bite before even looking at my gift, and immediately felt less alone. Now, a new tradition has started. As family members move further away and spread out across the country, we use the month of December to mail each other cookies, and new recipes to try on our own. Recently, we realized that December 4th is National Cookie Day; it’s another great reason to share the baking love this winter, no matter how far your family and friends might be.

Try out my favorite holiday recipe below. While it’s a basic recipe, the warmth and familiarity of it makes it special and sentimental. J As a native Montanan, Sydney enjoys exploring the outdoors with her dog Mae. She is an aspiring writer with a love of art, animals, and adventure.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

LIVING LOCAL

PROPER USE OF MONTANA’S SHARED CENTER TURN LANES

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ave you ever been driving on Huffine and pulled into the center turn lane to make a left turn, only to have someone coming at you using the center lane to accelerate and merge? If you have driven in Bozeman recently, the answer is like yes. Perhaps the same people using the center lane as an “on ramp” are the same ones driving the wrong way on the interstate, because it is almost thge same thing. You are breaking the law, and potentially causing a head on collision.

HERE’S WHAT THE MONTANA CODE ANNOTATED SAYS MCA 61-8-333 (4) Where a special lane has been indicated by official traffic control devices allowing operators of vehicles proceeding in opposite directions to make left turns: (A) a left turn may not be made from any other lane; and (B) a vehicle may not be operated in the lane except when making a left turn from or onto the roadway or when making a U-turn when that movement is permitted by law.

HERE ARE TAKE AWAYS FROM MONTANA HIGHWAY PATROL • When a shared, center turn lane is available, only turn left from that lane. Do not accelerate in the center lane ever!

• Don’t hang out in the center turn lane. It’s not for continuous driving or passing. You only should use it to make a left turn soon upon entering the center lane.

• DO NOT accelerate in the turn lane to merge, etc.

• When pulling into the center lane, please use caution and make sure that traffic is completely clear from both directions. webtrafficschool.com

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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LIVING LOCAL

CROSS COUNTRY

SKIING

AROUND BOZEMAN Steve McGann - from December 2022

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aving deserted Montana winters about five years ago for warm and sunny Arizona, I have felt neither interest in nor expertise for writing about the season. This year, however, my wife and I will be in Bozeman for most of December and into January for a holiday family reunion. So, while scanning the garage rafters searching for skis and poles, I began contemplating where to do some cross-country skiing. We may now migrate south with the rest of the birds but we do have forty plus years’ experience of winter activities around Bozeman. Over those years, our main recreation in the cold months has been on the cross-country ski trails in this area. I came up with a list of ten that we have enjoyed. The ten selections can be divided into three categories; convenient tracks right in Bozeman, nearby pay-to-ski Nordic resort, and National Forest skiing in the woods.

We live just a block-and-a-half from Bozeman High School. For a number of years, after a big snow dump, I skied right out of my garage on sidewalks that hadn’t yet been shoveled, and made tracks around the school athletic fields. It was mostly just to be able to say that I skied without having to drive anywhere. Almost as close are two other choices in the city.

The LINDLEY/SUNSET HILLS area is on the east side, right in town.

The two main tracks, groomed for both ski and skate, head out from Lindley Center. Laps on these trails are great, but it is also possible to ski uphill toward Hillcrest, over to Burke Park, or even across the street to Highland Glen. Of course, most of these alternatives are not groomed, and skate skiers would have a tougher time—but those guys seem tougher anyway.

For us, Lindley is so close that it is great for a quick spin on a lunch hour, or after work in the twilight.

MONTANA ENDURANCE ACADEMY

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The other option in town is the BRIDGER CREEK GOLF COURSE. There are loops groomed in the hilly area northeast of the clubhouse, and also across McIlhattan Road. One of the loops across the road meanders along Bridger Creek in the cottonwoods, and even features a couple of bridges. This is a great venue on extra cold days. It is possible to lay out your skis on the sidewalk a few feet from your vehicle and be off and running a minute or two after getting out of the warm car or truck. Some of the bike/hike trails here eventually connect to Glen Lake Park and, though I have never tried to ski through, some people surely have.

THE BRIDGER SKI FOUNDATION has been a fixture in the Bozeman skiing community for decades. They champion all things skiing in the area, with a particular focus on a variety of youth ski programs. The BSF provides the equipment, personnel, time, effort, and funds to groom many of the trails I am mentioning. They do this for the community, and the skiing is free. However, they do sell an optional Nordic ski pass, and accept donations. Any of us who use these trails should contribute.

CROSSCUT MOUNTAIN SPORTS CENTER, formerly known as Bohart Ranch, is located a few hundred yards north of Bridger Bowl, just off Highway 86. Their website advertises 500-acres with 45 kilometers of ski and skate trails. They also offer separate areas for snowshoeing and fat bike riding. Crosscut is a center for biathlon, the hybrid sport of skiing and target shooting. I have not skied there for some time, but remember the area as set in the forest with a rolling terrain. They feature great signage with information on their trails, such as length and difficulty. They offer equipment rentals, seasonal and daily rates, along with punch cards for ski visits.

LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH has been around for over 100 years. A year round full amenity resort, it is located part way up the mountain at Big Sky. For the winter season, they list 85 kilometers of trails, rentals, lessons, day and season passes. They also feature cabins, a restaurant and saloon, live music, sleigh rides, fat bikes, snowshoeing, ice skating, and transport up the mountain for downhill skiing. Enjoy full-on winter adventures, or just drive in for a day of skiing and warm up with a hot drink afterward.

THE BIG SKY COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION maintains an extensive network (over twenty miles) of ski trails throughout the Big Sky area.

There are many loops and spurs around Meadow Village, Town Center, the golf course, and Ousel Falls. There is even a trail from Mountain Village all the way down to Highway 191. These trails are free and are a great addition to the Big Sky experience. We have skied down the Mountain to Meadow trail and taken a shuttle back up for a great Nordic ski day. The Big Sky trails offer a unique combination of an in-town and in-the-woods ski experience.

The other cross-country skiing locations I have frequented over the years are on National Forest land, a bit more remote, more in the wilderness. They are all either north or south of Bozeman. The area to the west the Gallatin Valley is not known for snow. People in Three Forks are proud to play golf in February. To the east, the snow does not stay put. I love the town and people of Livingston (both my wife and I worked there for years). But, as the songwriter Ben Bullington put it; “The wind blows like a fire hose.” There is great skiing in the Crazies and the Absarokas, but that is farther afield. My final five spots include two in the Bridgers and three in the Gallatin Range.

The two that we have skied most in the Bridgers are roads; Brackett Creek and Fairy Lake. BRACKETT CREEK refers to a maze of logging and access roads that begin at the intersection on Highway 86 a few miles north of Bridger Bowl. The road that was primarily the cross-country ski track began there and ran up a slope back, parallel with the main road. Easy to spot. Another road began a bit to the north and, years ago, was primarily used by snowmobiles. Access to these areas is determined by where the Forest Service locks the gates. Regardless, Brackett Creek is a great ski venue, the terrain fairly gentle, rolling through forest and meadow with views of the rugged Bridger Ridge high above.

FAIRY LAKE is another road you have to scout to find how far the road closure is from the highway. No matter, the skiing will be fine from behind any gate. We went there mostly to cut Christmas trees and, after downing the perfect tree, realized it was huge, and located

a mile from the truck; we then wished for a friendly snowmobiler, who was always on another trail that day, to shake his head and drag it out.

BOZEMAN CREEK/SOURDOUGH CANYON is the most popular winter trail in the area—at least, it seems that way. It is an in and out road without any loops, so two-way traffic. If you are a Nordic ski purist, pursuing a speed workout at this location may not be for you.

Sourdough is full of skiers, snowshoers, walkers, joggers, dogs, fat bike riders, and kids in strollers and on sleds. The ski track might be obliterated by all these fun-seekers, but this is a Bozeman outdoor mecca. It is always fun to see so many people out enjoying the winter.

Of course, going earlier or later on weekends, or heading up on weekdays make for better parking and fewer crowds. It is five miles of steady uphill climb to the creek bridge, and ten all the way to Mystic Lake, so any distance can be skied. It is also possible to ski up and drop into Moser Creek on the Hyalite Road.

HYALITE is a wonderful place, summer or winter. It could absorb the Sourdough crowd and tenfold more and still provide a wilderness experience. There are many miles of trails with all of the opportunities mentioned above, along with ice fishing and ice climbing. Ski right out on the reservoir after you notice the fishermen and their coolers, chairs, and even snowmobiles out there on the ice. A coalition of skiers and ice climbers secured the plowing of the Hyalite Road years ago. Of course, the BSF is involved in that effort, and in the grooming of the trails there and on the Sourdough trail.

Last on the list is MOOSE CREEK. We used to go there when we wanted real solitude. The road heads up across the highway from the campground, along the river in Gallatin Canyon. This is another place I look forward to scouting this month; I’m guessing it is probably more popular than previously. J Whatever your sport or venue, be sure to get out for winter activities, both rewarding and refreshing. And remember those who make it possible to enjoy these great places!

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LIVING LOCAL WHEN THE WEST CALLS

BOZEMAN ANSWERS

W

Michael Testa

hen the West calls, Bozeman, Montana answers. But what does it say, exactly?

There is not a specific reason I’m able to put my finger on, yet, certainly, answers abound. Is it the towering mountains, which in the winter months will begin to teem with self-proclaimed “ski bums” encircling the small city (or is it a town?) of just over 50,000 full-time residents?

Is it the fact that within a seven-minute drive from Main Street you are surrounded by rolling fields and ranches, creating a picturesque view typically reserved only for postcards and paintings? Or is it the fact that, no matter how you prefer to spend your time outdoors, your adventurous heart can be fulfilled at nearly every turn?

Skiing, running, biking, hunting, fishing.

You name it; if it requires participants to be outdoors, Bozeman is there to provide the support system.

But even so, what makes this place so cool? No, it’s not the impending forty-below nights that seemingly make their way into any conversation. Rather, it’s the culture. A culture of “doers,” and a town that not only supports, but enables it.

Nearly every other driveway sports a camper, and nearly every other vehicle has a bike rack dancing off the back, or fly-rod holders mounted to the roof, momentarily sparing the lips of a native rainbow. Need the right tools and equipment? It’s here. Need specialized training to perform at your best?

It’s here. If you’re a doer, and you need it, you’ll find it here. It’s refreshing; it’s encouraging, and it entices you to participate — in fact, it demands that you do. Surrounded by Nature’s playground, taunting you at every turn, when the West calls, Bozeman answers. M Michael Testa is a husband, dog dad, and a striving-to-be outdoor adventurer.

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LIVING LOCAL

LIVING ROOM DECORATED FOR CHRISTMAS, CIRCA 1940S.

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RAG DOLLS &

AIR RIFLES A CENTURY OF CHERISHED GIFTS Rachel Phillips photos: Gallatin History Museum

O

n December 6, 1956, the Gallatin County Tribune and Gallatin Valley in 1888 and operated a hardware store on Main Street Belgrade Journal announced the official beginning of the until they switched to farming.

Christmas season. “Coincident with the drop in temperaIn contrast to the orange, an elaborate Christmas gift in the tures there was an appreciable rise in that intangible thing museum’s collection is a striking French-made dark blue sewing basket called Christmas spirit. Despite the zero temperatures there were with gold embroidery. This keepsake was given to longtime Bozeman plenty of people on the streets, resident Mary Susan Oliver Smith bright scarves, red stag shirts, crimMendenhall in 1857 by her future son noses; gaudy cars with their first husband, Major Robert Henry white topping of snow and the Smith. Robert and Mary, or Susan trailing plumes of their exhausts. as she was commonly called, were Suddenly people became conscious married for just five years before that the holidays were almost upon he was killed in 1863 in the Civil us and the attractive and varied War. Susan relocated to Bozeman window displays of Bozeman in 1869 with her sister and brothermerchants had new and potent in-law, Elizabeth and Achilles appeal.” Seventy years later, the Lamme. The next year she married holiday season is again in full swing local merchant and first Gallatin and most of us are in various stages County Sheriff, John Mendenhall. of holiday shopping. It is also the Susan lived in the family home at season to reminisce about those 521 S. Willson Avenue, or the “pink unforgettable gifts—treasured house,” for most of the rest of her items that brought so much joy life; she passed away in 1933. Her that no other present could ever Christmas sewing basket was kept compare. by her descendants until it was In the 1890s, Christmas gifts donated to the museum in 2023. were often humble but nonetheless Missouri native Niza Shaw CHAMBERS-FISHER DEPARTMENT STORE IN BOZEMAN CIRCA LATE 1930S memorable. In a 1975 oral history moved to Bozeman with her recording, Don Anderson recalled husband George in 1936. She lived his older sister’s description of an early Christmas spent on the family at 22 W. Lamme Street for over forty years and kept a faithful diary farm southwest of Bozeman. “Each child got a family gift of an apple of her daily activities. One page of Niza Shaw’s diary is dedicated to or an orange—not both, understand. They had to take their choice. a list of Christmas gifts she received from friends and family in 1959 And when she turned up her nose at her orange, my father eagerly and 1960. Food items like cookies, candy, fruit cake and quantities of took it, because he hadn’t had any fresh fruit for a long time.” The beef, pork and deer meat were popular. Niza also received practical Anderson family, for whom Anderson School is named, came to the gifts—handkerchiefs, potholders, an apron, and an embroidery thread continued on next page Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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MARY SUSAN OLIVER SMITH MENDENHALL’S SEWING BASKET, CIRCA 1857. GALLATIN HISTORY MUSEUM COLLECTION

Rag Dolls & Air Rifels p.36 holder. A necklace and an “oil picture for the top of a calendar” could be considered some of the more frivolous presents she received.

Fiercely independent and known for jumping rope, even on her 101st birthday, Niza Shaw passed away in 1987. Her diaries, along with a portion of her collection of agates and opals, are now part of the collection at the Gallatin History Museum.

Food, handkerchiefs, and sewing baskets were all well and good, but nothing compared to the delightful toys given children at Christmastime. As the 1956 Gallatin County Tribune article, “Christmas Shopping in Bozeman” proclaimed, “Because Christmas is primarily a children’s holiday, perhaps the goods offered for children are, of all holiday offerings, the most interesting. Their range is wide, their variety infinite.” It is usually toys that produce those wonderful life-long memories, and the magic of Santa Claus in childhood is undeniable.

In a 1975 oral history interview, Margaret “Bessie” Gee described her memories of Christmas gifts and Santa. “I just loved Christmas.

Of course, I believed in Santa Claus until – I don’t know just how old I was – but my older sister, my older brother, took us into the bedroom one day and told us there wasn’t any Santa Claus, that it was just grandma and grandpa and mother and father... and the next morning I had a mechanical seal, and I wouldn’t even look at it, because I knew it didn’t come from Santa Claus.” Gee, whose family farmed near Reese Creek north of Belgrade, also noted that some of her favorite childhood Christmas gifts were dolls. Her father made doll beds and doll trunks for both her and her sister, which remained her lifelong

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treasured possessions. Bessie remembered having rag dolls as a small child, acquiring more sophisticated versions as she grew.

One early variety and toy store in Bozeman that sold dolls (and much more) was Wisey Wonder Store, located in the 1910s on the south side of Main Street between Black and Tracy Avenues. A December 1, 1914 issue of Wisey Wonder Store News provided families with a poster-sized advertisement featuring the season’s popular toys. A colored border around the toy advertisements featured illustrations of elves, fairies and gnomes hard at work while Santa, hammer in hand, supervised from the top. Toys advertised that year included dolls and doll accessories, rocking horses, musical instruments, board games, sleds, and the ever-popular air rifles and cap guns. The Wisey Wonder Store ad not only included illustrations of various toys, but prices, and descriptions sure to entice young readers.

For forty cents, parents could purchase “unbreakable dolls” for small children that were so durable they “could be thrown without breaking.” The famous Kewpie doll made an appearance in the 1914 Wisey Wonder store ad as being much “in demand,” and the store carried a line of Kewpies that started at twenty-five cents. A fifteencent “Fish Pond” game included two rods and eight fish. Pop guns, priced at fifteen cents, were “just the thing for the little tots. Absolutely harmless.” For slightly older children, air rifles cost twenty-five cents and were capable of shooting rubber balls and corks. One dollar could buy a mahogany-finished toy baby grand piano with keys that produced “accurate notes.”

One of these fabulous toy pianos, like the one mentioned in the 1914 Wisey Wonder Store ad, is part of the toy collection at the

PREPARING CHRISTMAS GIFT BASKETS AT THE ELKS CLUB IN BOZEMAN, 1960S. PHOTO BY MAX HUNKE.

Gallatin History Museum. Given to Martha Story Drysdale at age 5 in about 1933, the instrument still makes music more than ninety years later. Martha, daughter of Malcolm and Rose Ashby Story, grew up in Bozeman and in recent years volunteered at the museum, where she donated her treasured toy piano in 2012. She passed away in 2021.

For eighty years, Chambers-Fisher Department Store in downtown Bozeman was a popular destination to purchase toys and gifts for the whole family. The store famously displayed a giant silhouette of Santa’s sleigh and reindeer on the front of their building above the awning with the words “Whoa! This is the place,” printed underneath.

In addition to Santa’s endorsement above the front door, longtime owner Minnie Preston also published large advertisements in the local newspaper during the holidays. A December 3, 1943 ad in the Bozeman Courier asserted “Toyland is Fairyland,” and encouraged parents to bring their children to Chambers-Fisher’s downstairs toy department to peruse the season’s popular toys. Because there was a wartime effort to save metal in 1943, the ad made a point of mentioning some great alternatives to metal toys, such as Lincoln Logs for $1.50 and cartoon drawing sets for $1.00.

In December 1956, the Gallatin County Tribune provided many gift ideas for young and old—skis and skiing equipment, ice skates with the blade already attached to the footwear (instead of, as the ad described, the “old fashioned kind we clamped on ordinary shoes”), freezers, dish washers, and televisions. A large ad for a local electronics store called Elite Novelty Company at 226 E. Main Street featured a variety of TVs in blonde, mahogany, and walnut consoles. The high-

end television that year from Elite was a $299.95 Philco model with “sound out front and top touch tuning” that provided “startling new mastery of sight and sound.”

So, this year, bring on the nostalgia. As the Tribune noted in 1956, “Shopping in Bozeman, with cordial merchants and friends around you, is an experience not to be dreaded, but enjoyed.” Best wishes for an enjoyable holiday season, filled with warmth and happy memories. May it be as delightful as that treasured childhood gift which will never be forgotten. P Rachel Phillips is the Research Director at the Gallatin History Museum in Bozeman. Visit the Gallatin History Museum at 317 W Main Street in Bozeman, gallatinhistorymuseum.org, or on Facebook and Instagram.

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REC & HEALTH

BEYOND THE COLD AND DARK

EMBRACING THE QUIET OF WINTER Steve McGann

T

o overstate the obvious, winter contains two basic things – dark, and cold.

One momentous early human discovery dealt with both of these obstacles to life. That was fire. This advance brought on more than light and warmth.

Soon there was cooking, competition for the best spot, and singing around the campfire. Today, we have many ways of dealing with winter that do not involve gathering wood or buffalo chips, or finding the correct rocks to bash together to make sparks.

Still, the cold and the dark are there, and they have an effect on our activities. One of those effects seems to be a shrinking of our range. For many of us, the cold and dark lead to a concentration on home, school, and work, indoor stuff. This is not a bad attitude; winter can be a good time to get things done.

Such as writing. I realize that becoming a Snowbird has caused a forfeiture of my winter season opinion privileges. And it is difficult for me to comment on all of you going through your zero temperature, dark-thirty lives.

Lounging among the palm trees is no atmosphere for writing about blizzards. But I have not migrated quite yet. There is early snow on the Bridgers and piles of leaves in the yard.

Also, I feel that spending the last two Christmas seasons in Montana, both for a month, has allowed me to retain a modicum of expertise. That, and the previous 40 winters before those two more recent sojourns. Both years were Holiday family reunions. During those fun and fleeting times I noticed that our outdoor range had also diminished. Our kids who live in New Zealand were craving White Christmases and cross-country ski trails. Our kids who live in Bozeman work

and play at Bridger Bowl, their natural commute. All of us spend much of our time on outdoor activities. Yet, in winter we go about them in a more restrained manner.

Since this is Montana, the first year there were two days when Bridger was closed due to extreme cold, and the second year we were raking leaves on December 23rd. Luckily, we are all seasoned Montanans and we were able to persevere and enjoy the extremes and wait for more normal winter weather.

Our two go-to venues for Nordic skiing are Bridger Creek Golf continued on page 43

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Beyond the Cold & Dark p. 40 Course and the Lindley area. During our Holiday visits we tried to ski every day. This was a challenge the first year, when the temperatures were regularly -20 degrees, and the second year, when there was very little snow. The solution was winter precaution and winter flexibility, two different things. The same mentality that caused us to reduce our range made us prepare more for venturing into it.

These preparations involved gear, and upgrading and replacing gear involves shopping.

Hey, it was Christmas. Many of Bozeman’s outdoor gear shops are right in town, and there are plenty of choices. We indulged ourselves. I have always said that I hate shopping, but have discovered that as long as the purchases are for someone else, I love it. I envy those who can make a stop or two and make a decision. It might take me a month of mental contemplation just to arrive at the store.

There were days when the entire ski outing lasted just over an hour, but felt much longer.

Warm up the truck, drive across town, set up the gear, sprint off on the trail. Below zero temperatures turn anyone into an Olympian. We were tearing around the loops faster than we would have thought possible. Easing into a rhythm, the first signs of perspiration under many layers is a sign to head back to the truck, then make the drive home for a hot drink. Of course, a slight malfunction, a thin mitten or a chilly ear might require another gear outing. Repeat on the following day.

As in most things, one of the memorable parts of the winter routine is when we break out of it. A drive to Hyalite to hike, fish, or boat in the summer is a fun but not exactly unusual outing. When friends arrived to see the kids from down under, we drove to Hyalite to introduce the visitors, who were unfamiliar with snow, to snowshoeing — an unforgettable expedition. As the host, I was able to combine the memories of decades of trips along the winding road next to the creek with seeing the place through the eyes of those who had never been in the Rocky Mountains.

That is a great combination. We were rewarded with an inversion that gave us 25 degrees above zero at the reservoir, when it had been much colder in town.

During the year of little snow, someone suggested a West Yellowstone adventure. Again, in summer or fall this would be fairly routine. In December, it seemed arctic. We ended up going twice; the roads were fine. We skied in Yellowstone Park and at the Nordic Center, strolled through town, and warmed up at the bakery/bookstore with hot drinks and pastries. The town that in another season would be just down the road seemed to be a far off world.

Part of the beauty of Bozeman is that it contains amenities that make winter more bearable, even enjoyable, as our environs shrink both physically and mentally. The university, the library, the downtown shops and restaurants, the in-town ski venues and parks, the fitness centers, the North 19th and Cannery District businesses… Bozeman is self-contained.

It is actually a hub for other communities, near and far. Though it is possible to venture away to those seemingly faraway worlds, it is perfectly reasonable to remain in town and live contentedly in our busy bubble.

There are times when even the living space in the house shrinks.

Lamplight and firelight become important before 5 p.m. There is that back bedroom shut away for heat retention in the rest of the house, but more likely because it is far from those heat and light sources. We gather near the woodstove in the family room, or at the kitchen table while something warm and pleasant bakes in the oven. When I was a kid, my Mom switched the living and dining rooms by the season, deciding on the smaller, cozier one for the winter. Moving the furniture back and forth was our seasonal statement. We all used a lighter, quicker step walking through the dim, cool areas to reach the well-lit rooms.

It requires a stout heart to venture outside to start the truck or bring in firewood from the frigid gloom. The best part of that is returning to the warm center and receiving praise from those who did not make the journey. Another short but sharp excursion. Song lyrics come to mind: Bruce Springsteen singing about stepping out onto the front porch, sucking the cold air deep inside. John Denver telling us of a fire softly burning and supper on the stove.

Last year, we cleared the yard of leaves. The following day, December 24th, it snowed. I was immediately reminded of a Christmas Eve nearly 50 years ago in the Midwest. I was walking home from work in the twilight, bemoaning the lack of snow, when I felt the first flakes on my cheeks.

It was just an inch that night but it made all the difference.

Summoning those memories is easy. The Holiday season is concentrated in space by the weather of winter. It is also made that way by time. A couple of weeks during which our experiences are short, sweet, and easily called back from the past, not just to recall but to enhance the current times. Continuing traditions by repeating them in new ways and in new years begins to sound pretty good. Maybe I should get online with Allegiant Air and book a long weekend in Bozeman. We already have a nice place to stay.

What winter provides for us are challenges and contrasts. What it requires is a concentration on basics. There are extremes that put us on alert. There are small victories and small rewards. These can be unique, though, remembered in December but tedious by March. At least by then there is renewed light.

By the way, Bridger Creek, Sunset/Lindley and quite a few other ski trails are maintained by the Bridger Ski Foundation, grooming all winter; please contribute. Also, shopping in town for gear (or anything) is a great experience. The act of entering a store from the cold and dark into the warm and festive is way better than ordering stuff by pushing buttons on your phone. M Steve McGann has escaped to Arizona as usual, but is always open to coming home to the cold and the dark in order to experience the warmth and the light.

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REC & HEALTH

WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS Jeff Beyl photos: Lindsey Hove

I

was writing about autumn in Montana. Specifically, about fly-fishing the Yellowstone River in autumn. I added the cottonwood leaves turning bright orange and yellow and they would let loose from the branches as a breeze came by and they fluttered down onto the river. Every so often a stronger gust would grab large clusters of leaves and they swirled and churned in the air like a vibrant, multicolored snowstorm. The colors of the leaves on the river swirled and moved like paint mixing on a canvas.

The sun was high in the sky but there was a cool snap and a clarity to the air and everything near and far was in crystalline focus. The rock formations along this stretch of river tell geologic tales of glacial scouring and orogenic upheaval. In my writing, we had just anchored the drift boat along the shore of a gravel bar to take a lunch break. In real time, I needed to go to the Post Office, so I took a break from writing to go run my errand.

After the post office I swung by one of those parking lot coffee stands where you drive up to the window and place your order and they make your elaborate coffee drink and they always smile and ask, “how’s your day going?” and “what have you got planned for the rest of the day.” I ordered a fancy pumpkin-spice latte. The barista smiled and asked me if I would like whipped cream on top. I figured what the hell so I smiled back and said, “sure.”

“So, what’re you up to today?” she asked. “Are you on your lunch break?”

“Um, yeah,” I responded.

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“What do you do for a living?” She was doing whatever it is that they do when they make swanky, complicated coffee drinks.

“I’m a writer,” I said. She was being sociable and friendly so I figured I’d be sociable and friendly too.

“Oh, really?” I supposed that she thought I was a construction guy. I was driving my truck and it was dusty and there was a shovel and some tools in the back.

She stopped doing what she was doing and

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

leaned over to the window ledge. “What do you write?”

“Well, right now,” I said. “I’m writing about fly-fishing in the fall.”

“I used to work in an advertising agency,” she said. She had gone back to making my elaborate coffee. “I wrote ad copy. But I would always get writer’s block.” She was adding a dollop of whipped cream on top of the coffee. “Do you ever get writer’s block?”

“Comes with the territory,” I said.

I told her I had read that Joan Didion, a prolific writer who wrote Slouching Toward Bethlehem, The White Album and The Year of Magical Thinking, when she got writer’s block she would put her manuscript into the freezer along with the ice cubes and the frozen peas. I told her that Jim Harrison, who wrote Legends of the Fall, The Woman Lit by Fireflies and Dalva, along with many other novels, short stories, poems and essays, said that one time when he got writer’s block he got up and went on a seven-thousand-mile car drive to clear his head.

“Wow,” she said. She snapped a lid down onto the tall cup and slid one of those heat sleeves onto it. She reached out the window and handed it to me. I reached up, gave her seven dollars and told her keep the change. Expensive coffee.

“Thanks,” she said. “Careful, it’s hot.

So, tell me. What do you do when you get writer’s block?”

“Me? I read Hemingway.”

She looked at me with a strange expression. Consternation? Disquiet? I think she was picturing the larger than life, legendary macho guy who wrote about war and the bullfights and big game fishing and hunting lions in Africa. But I was referring to the writer. I think she wanted me to say something like, well, when I get writer’s block, I come down here for a pumpkin-spice latte or I go for a walk along the lakeshore or I pet my cat. Maybe she wanted me to say that I put the manuscript in the freezer alongside the frozen peas and the T-bones. But I told

her that I read Ernest Hemingway and that brought her up short.

“Well, thanks for the coffee,” I said.

“Have a nice day and hey, when all else fails, read Hemingway.”

When I got back home I went and sat in the chair that looks out over the lake and I drank the fancy coffee and read the first few, well-thumbed pages of A Farewell to Arms.

As I read, I could see the pebbles and the boulders and the clear water of the channels.

I could see the troops marching by and the dust they raised and I could see the leaves

and the dust rising and even though the story took place in Italy the words brought me back to Montana. I remembered that Hemingway wrote a lot about Montana in his novels and short stories and that is where he wrote much of his novel For Whom the Bell Tolls. I thought about the quote on the Hemingway memorial in Idaho, “Best of all he loved the fall.” So, I went back to the computer and back to the Yellowstone river in autumn.

As I continued to write I could see the leaves, vivid in the pure autumn light. Scarlet.

Crimson. Gamboge. Maroon. Like flames vibrating along the edge of the river. I had put the rocks and crystals and petrified wood that I had collected into my small pack and stashed the pack in the back of the drift boat and I climbed in. Vince, my guide, pushed off and rowed slowly out into the current and we drifted along quietly. We rounded a bend in the river and Vince pointed downstream with the tip of his oar and nodded his head.

He didn’t have to say anything. We had fished together many times and I knew what he meant. There were some trout rising up ahead. I could see the swarming of the hatch fluttering on the surface of the river and the dimples in the water caused by the rising trout as they sucked the tiny insects into their mouths. We tied on a small dry fly and I cast it ahead of the boat. It landed softly on the water and I fed some slack into the line to get a more natural drift and we watched closely as it floated in the current toward the rising trout. And the leaves gathered together into flamboyant rafts of color and rested on the surface of the river and the air was crisp and the autumn breeze picked up and in the distance the mountains stood out clear against the blue of the sky. B Seattle-based writer Jeff Beyl has been published with work on fly-fishing nature the ocean and music. His book A Conversation With the Earth was recently released.

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Top10 REC & HEALTH

AFFORDABLE LUNCH SPOTS Rachel Porter

B

ozeman is growing, and finding places to eat that won’t hurt your bank has become increasingly difficult. For the sake of simplicity, we have selected meals that range in price from $10-20.

Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking for a new recommendation, here are ten affordable lunch spots in Bozeman.

BAGELWORKS

Despite being a bagel specialty spot, BagelWorks is diverse in its options for a well-rounded lunch. The lunch-specific menu ranges from a BLT, priced at $9, to a Lox Bagel, priced at $13, showcasing the range the small bagel shop works with. If bagels aren’t your thing, they have signature sandwiches like the Toastacado and the 3 Little Pigs.

These sandwiches range from $6 to $13, minus add-ons, and are delicious.

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FIVE ON BLACK

Five on Black showcases Brazilian street food in five simple selection steps: base, grill/ protein, side, sauce, and up to three Brazilian toppings. They offer three sizes; small (9.75), large (14.50), and kids (6.00). It’s healthy and fresh, and gluten-free as a bonus — real food made from scratch every day, just for you.

COSMIC PIZZA

Founded by Ken Burger, Cosmic Pizza opened its doors in Bozeman in 2002, to introduce southwest Montana to a new kind of pizza experience. The daily special in Bozeman, for $8, includes two large slices of pizza and a soda. In Belgrade, two large slices of pizza and a beer will set you back $9.95.

COLOMBO’S PIZZA

Colombo’s Pizza has a slogan: “Try Something Original,” and the available options back that claim. Options range from hot and cold sandwiches to pasta dishes and unique combination pizzas. They also offer

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

gluten-free options for pizza and pasta, along with a salad bar. By the slice, pizza is $3, with specialty pizza priced at $3.75 per slice. Sandwiches range from a small cold turkey sub ($7) to a large hot sausage sub ($15). Pasta dishes range from regular-size ravioli ($12) to large-portioned eggplant parmesan ($15).

LOW-KEY SANDWICHES

Serving fast, fresh meals, Low-Key Sandwiches features global sandwiches and local ingredients. Off the Grill ranges from hot pastrami ($12) to Cubano ($15). Deli sandwiches range from a BLT ($9) to the Dagwood ($14). The kids’ menu includes grilled cheese and the kids’ cold cut for $7 each. The Low-Key burger category ranges from the Low-Key veggie ($12) to the maniac ($17).

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I-HO’S KOREAN GRILL

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WESTERN CAFE

The Western Cafe specializes in American home cooking. The lunch options includecold sandwiches, hot sandwiches, lunch plates, and specialty plates. The lunch plate starts at $8.50 with the lunch wrap; cold sandwiches start at $6.50 with the egg salad; hot sandwiches start at $7.25 with the grilled ham and cheese, and specialty plates start at $9 with the roast beef sandwich. Fountain drinks and iced tea are priced at $2, while tea, coffee, juice, and milk are $1.50. Overall, The Western Cafe is quite affordable, and is known for its sense of community.

PICKLE BARREL

Pickle Barrel is a local institution that offers exceptional flavor, friendly service, and a commitment to excellence. Each sandwich is unique in flavor and style. There are two sizes offered: the small (6”), which includes sandwiches such as the tuna salad ($7.25) and the #23 Steak with American cheese, mushrooms, peppers, and onions ($10.25), and the large (9”), which includes sandwiches such as the ham slam ($9.35) and the sheepherder’s special ($12.95). Don’t forget your free pickle!

BACKCOUNTRY BURGER BAR

Backcountry Burger Bar uses Montana-raised and processed beef and bison, and hand-cut local potatoes. The menu is comprised of soups and salads, burgers and sandwiches, and smalls. Soups and salads range from French onion soup ($8) to the Cobb salad ($13). Burgers and sandwiches range from Backcountry ($11) to Marias ($16). Smalls range from house-cut French fries ($4.50) to haystack onion rings ($11).

MAMA MAC’S BAKERY AND SANDWICH SHOP

Mama Mac’s Bakery and Sandwich Shop offers an excellent, hand-made lunch at a family-owned deli with four main sections in the menu: From the Grill; Specialty Sandwiches; Kids’ menu, and the Soup, Salads and Combos. From the Grill contains half sandwiches — grilled cheese ($5) and the hot ham and Swiss ($9.50), and full sandwiches — also the grilled cheese ($7) and the Philly cheese steak (12.50). The specialty sandwiches also

include half sandwiches — the veggie sandwich ($7.75) and the turkey, avocado, and bacon sandwich ($10), and full sandwiches — again, the veggie sandwich ($9.75) and the classic club ($12).

I-HO’S KOREAN GRILL With a cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and a menu bursting with mouthwatering dishes, I-Ho’s Korean Grill is the perfect place to unwind and savor a delightful meal. Appetizers range from edamame ($7) to Korean chicken wings ($16). The main dishes range from Noodles of Korea ($15) to Gal-Bi-Bob, a type of Korean short ribs ($26).

Dining in restaurants doesn’t have to be expensive, especially with affordable options just around the corner. Take in the Bozeman atmosphere in any of the local establishments mentioned above. Enjoy various meals without exceeding your budget or being too cautious about new recommendations. R Rachel Porter is a writing major in her senior semester of college. If she’s not writing, she is likely drawing, gaming, or herding her mischievous chickens.

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EVENTS CALENDAR

MONDAY, DEC. 2 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

ROOTED IN PLACE: MONTANA HERITAGE RECEPTION 5:307pm • Helen E. Copeland Gallery, 242 Haynes Hall, Bozeman This exhibition highlights the work of 9 students enrolled in GDSN 377; Design for Society within the Graphic Design program at Montana State University BOARD GAME NIGHT 6-7:45pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • Adults • 406-570-7752 • www. bozemanlibrary.org A chance to test your strategy and teamwork skills with board games and other adults. Join us at the library for some table top fun.

DOCUMENTARY FILM NIGHT - PENCILS VS PIXELS 6-7:45pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Once a month the library will host a documentary movie night.

GAME NIGHT LIVE TRIVIA 6-8pm • Wildrye Distilling, 111 East Oak Street Suite 1E, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-2288 • www.wildryedistilling.com With Picture Rounds, Sound Rounds, Word Jumbles and more.. There’s Something for Everyone.

ESTATE PLANNING WITH DR. MARSHA GOETTING 6:30-7:30pm • Bozeman Public Library Community room • FREE • Adults • 4065822413 • www.bozemanlibrary.org The public is invited to attend these free in-person seminars. If you are curious about how to best preserve, protect, and pass on any assets these seminars will fill the bill. What are Revocable and Testamentary Trusts? with Dr. Marsha Goetting.

TRIVIA NIGHT 7-9pm • Bacchus Pub, 105 W Main St, Bozeman • 406 404-1996 • www.bacchuspub.com Join us for our weekly trivia night, Game Night Live is a leader in bar trivia and music bingo, putting on awesome games at local venues that everyone can enjoy.

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE 7pm • Brick Breeden Fieldhouse, 1 Bobcat Circle, Bozeman • $35+ • (406) 994-CATS • www. brickbreeden.com This annual tradition wraps a Broadway-style production around an infusion of contemporary circus arts.

SPORTS TRIVIA 7:30pm • Rockin’ R Bar, 211 E. Main St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 587-9355 • www.rockingrbar.com For those looking for more sporty trivia questions this is it.

TUESDAY, DEC. 3 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

YOGA 12:15pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Join certified yoga instructor Sara Clary for a gentle 45-minute flow.

INTRO TO 3D PRINTING 2-3:30pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www. bozemanlibrary.org Learn the basics of 3D printing and how to use the 3D printer in the Work Bench.

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NEWCOMER ORIENTATION 5-6pm • Bozeman Dharma Center • FREE • 4062192140 • bozemandharmacenter.org Receive basic meditation instruction, an orientation to the Bozeman Dharma Center, and get your questions about Buddhism answered.

HOT CHOCOLATE BOMBS 5-7pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www. bozemanlibrary.org Make hot chocolate bombs and taste test different recipes.

NONFICTION WRITING GROUP 5:30-7:30pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Hobby writers are welcome to share your work with writers, critique content, develop your ability.

GNL TRIVIA 6-8pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • FREE • (406) 518-5011 • www.thejumpmt.com Accessible and amazing trivia for everyone, always an awesome time.

Prizes for winners.

STORIES BEYOND BORDERS 6-8pm • Midtown Event Space, 726 N 7th Ave, Bozeman • $75 • All Ages • bienvenidosgv.org/stories Join us for an unforgettable evening of connection, culture, and conversation highlighting the journeys of immigrant families and the impact of your support. Enjoy a specially prepared dinner, entertainment and engage in meaningful conversations!

LAST BEST PLACE TRIVIA 6pm • Last Best Place Brewery, 605 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman This brewery hosts trivia every Tuesday night at 6pm and offers some non-alcoholic choices as well like some N/A beers along with some drinks for kids like juice boxes.

COSMOS & COOKIES: A SPECIAL MEMBER-ONLY SERIES OF EVENTS 6pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • For Members • All Ages • 4069942251 • museumoftherockies.org At MOR’s Cosmos and Cookies events, members can premier new planetarium shows before they are open to the public, just as they can preview MOR’s newest exhibits before they are open to public at member-only exhibit opening receptions.

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

TRIVIA NIGHT 6:30pm • Hop Lounge, 93 Rowland Rd, Bozeman • no cover • all ages • (406) 404-1784 Grab some friends and get there early to grab a table the first round starts at 6:30!

POKER TOURNAMENT 7-11pm • The Golden Zebra • $40 • 18+ • 4062192436 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament. $200 Added. Great way to learn the game! Registration Open at 6:30 - late register by ~7:30. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

COLOR GREEN 7pm • Live From the Divide, 627 East Peach Street, Bozeman • $35 • livefromthedivide.com Dynamic and unpredictable live act, grounding their cosmic jams in earthy melodies and drawing from ‘60s SoCal folk-rock, ‘70s classic rock, ‘80s underground rock, ‘90s psychedelic dance-rock, and any other sound that catches the ears.

COMEDY HOUR OPEN MIC 8-10pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • FREE • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Our weekly open mic is a safe, friendly, supportive place to start your comedy journey, try new material, and connect to the Bozeman Stand up scene. Jump in or just enjoy the laughs!

BINGO 8pm • The Molly Brown, 703 W. Babcock, Bozeman • 21+ • (406) 552-7362 Patrons can gather their friends or fellow bingo addicts together and share in a night of fun.

TUESDAY INDUSTRY NIGHT 9pm • The Waypoint, 50 Ousel Falls Rd, Big Sky • no cover • 21+ • thebigskywaypoint.com Join us every Tuesday 9pm-late for beer pong, drink discounts, beer dice, and $3 pizza slices!

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 4 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

BOZEMAN MUSIC NIGHT WITH JODY AND THE WOODFLOWERS 5:30-7:30pm • Bridger Brewing Co, 1609 S 11th Ave, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 587-2124 • www.bridgerbrewing.com Come enjoy some tunes with us!

OPEN MIC WITH THE BOZEMAN POETRY COLLECTIVE 6pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • FREE • 18+ • 4065772383 • valhallabozeman.com Open mic with music, poetry, comedy and anything else you would like to share.

KATABATIC TRIVIA 6-7pm • Katabatic Brewing Company, 117 W Park St, Livingston • 21+ • (406) 333-2855 • katabaticbrewing. blogspot.com The winners of this establishment’s weekly trivia competition are given a prize fit for their accomplishments: they get to drink for free!

GNL TRIVIA WEDNESDAY 6-8pm • SHINE Beer Sanctuary + Bottle Shop, 451 E Main St, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 585-8558 • shinebeer.com Come Check Out the Most Accessible, Varied, and Fun Trivia Nights Designed for Anyone who Loves to Play Games. Free-to-Play & Prizes for the Winners.

GAME NIGHT LIVE TRIVIA 6-8pm • Audreys Pizza Oven & Freefall Brewery, 806 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman • No Cover • (406) 522-5456 • www.audreyspizzaoven.com Come Check Out the Most Accessible, Varied, and Fun Trivia Nights Designed for Anyone who Loves to Play Games!

OPEN MIC WEDNESDAYS 6-9:30pm • The Bunkhouse Brewery, 7715 Shedhorn Dr., Four Corners • FREE • All Ages • (406) 577-2130 Music! Comedy! Solo Artists! Bands! Spoken word!

Whatever! All are welcome! 15 min slots, call or stop in to sign up. Open jam at 9. Full PA and lights provided.

ART SHINDIG 6pm • 1889 Barn, 12670 Portnell Road, Gallatin Gateway • FREE • 406 579-4865 • www.1889barn.com First Wednesday of the month Art Shindig features a different local artist.

COSMOS & COOKIES: A SPECIAL MEMBER-ONLY SERIES OF EVENTS 6pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • For Members • All Ages • 4069942251 • museumoftherockies.org At MOR’s Cosmos and Cookies events, members can premier new planetarium shows before they are open to the public, just as they can preview MOR’s newest exhibits before they are open to public at member-only exhibit opening receptions.

PET LOSS GROUP 6:45-8pm • Bridger Veterinary Specialists • FREE • All Ages • 406-548-4226 A monthly group meeting for those that have lost a pet, are dealing with a tough diagnosis and preparing for loss or remembering an anniversary of losing a pet.

BINGO 7-9pm • American Legion Bar, 225 E. Main St., Bozeman • 18+ • (406) 586-8400 • www.facebook.com 100% of the proceeds go to assisting our Veterans, their families, our youth programs, and the community.

WESTERN SWING WEDNESDAYS 7-11pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • Lessons $10 • 21+ after 9pm • (406) 518-5011 • www.thejumpmt.com There will be a great dance floor every week, your favorite instructors, and all the country music you love from Bozeman’s Choice 2023 DJ, DJ Habes.

LIVE MUSIC AT PONDEROSA SOCIAL CLUB 7pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt.com Free live music every Wednesday starting at 7pm.

UGLY SWEATER DANCE 7pm • Armory Music Hall, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • $10 • 18+ • www.armorymusichall.com Dress in your ugliest sweater to hit the largest dance floor in the Gallatin Valley. Doors open at 7pm with a fun lesson from Western Roots Country Dancing, followed by open dancing at 8pm.

TRIVIA NIGHT 7:30pm • Rockin’ R Bar, 211 E. Main St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 587-9355 • www.rockingrbar.com Regular party animals and intellectuals alike may enjoy Rockin R Trivia.

TRIVIA NIGHT 8pm • The Molly Brown, 703 W. Babcock, Bozeman • 21+ • (406) 552-7362 Gather your friends for a night of trivia fun each Wednesday.

OPEN JAMS 8pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com Open jam session LADIES NIGHT 8pm-2am • Club Zebra, 321 E Main St, Bozeman • $10 for guys • 21+ The wonderful Ladies of Bozeman can enjoy 2 free drinks, $3 drinks till 10 pm, and that booty shakin’ music provided by DJ Chedda.

HOOLIGANS 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Formed in 1990, Hooligans is Bozeman’s longest running roots rock/americana/blues/jam band. Inspired by the improv driven music of the San Francisco scene as well as early folk, blues and great rock’n’roll.

THURSDAY, DEC. 5 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

SINGO 6-8pm • Last Best Place Brewery, 605 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman • 21+ Do you like music? Are you a fan of Bingo? Bring a group for Singo and relax for some fun and beer.

FLY-TYING NIGHT 6-9pm • Bozeman Fly Supply, 2621 W College, Bozeman • FREE Bring your vise, tools, materials, and beverages to tie some flies. This is not a class but an invitation for all to get out of the house, get behind the vise, and have fun with fellow tiers.

VINTAGE SWING SOCIAL 7-8pm • La Brasserie, 31 S Willson Ave, Bozeman • (406) 414-9693 • www.labrasseriemt.com Join the Downbeat Vintage Swing Society for our weekly vintage swing social, we host an introductory swing lesson, followed by a social to dance.

KGLT DJ NIGHT 7-9pm • Hop Lounge, 93 Rowland Rd, Bozeman • no cover • all ages • (406) 404-1784 Don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in the vibe that is the Hop Lounge and join the Guest DJ for KGLT Alternative Public Radio DJ Night.

THURSDAY NIGHT OUT 7-9pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $15, $5 MSU Students • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Improv Thursday Nights are back and it’s the perfect time to check our hilarious improv shows! A showcase of some of our teams paired with our signature shows.

BINGO NIGHT 7-10pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • $20 • 18+ • (406) 518-5011 • www.thejumpmt.com It’s a game that we all know and love, so why not bring everyone down for dinner and drinks!

AARON BANFIELD 7-10pm • Bozeman Hot Springs & Fitness, 81123 Gallatin Road, Four Corners • With Admission • All Ages • 4065866492 • bozemanhotsprings.co Live music while you soak!

Featuring the local folk artist Aaron Banfield.

PAINT & SIP PARTY TO BENEFIT THE ROCK YOUTH CENTER 7-10pm • The Rock Youth Center • $75 per painter or $250 for four Support The Rock Youth Center while having a great time at a women’s paint and sip night! Lesson, supplies, wine, beer, lattes, charcuterie, dessert, and door prizes included. Register at https://tithe.ly/event-registration/#/9482296 THE GREY DOG BAR KARAOKE 7pm • Grey Dog Bar, 34 N Bozeman Ave, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 404-1014 • www.thegreydogbar. com Karaoke at the Grey Dog Bar BOZEMAN DOC SERIES PRESENTS SEPERATED 7pm • Emerson’s Crawford Theatre, 111 S. Grand Ave., Bozeman • $10 students, $12 adult • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org The Bozeman Doc Series continues with the Montana premiere of the criticallyacclaimed new documentary, Separated. Academy Awardwinning filmmaker Errol Morris’ deeply unsettling exposé reveals the machinations behind the U.S. Department of Justice’s “zero tolerance” program.

ESTELLE & THE NORTH BLACK BAND 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Estelle & The North Black Band is a four piece ensemble of professional musicians with decades of experience in a variety of styles and genres.

TEEN MAKER LAB - CRAFT FOR A CAUSE 4-5pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • teens • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Spread good vibes by making cozy blankets for Bozeman Health patients. Offered in partnership with the Bozeman Health Foundation.

MOR’S PRESENTING PREHISTORY: ARE HOBBITS REAL? 5:307pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 994-2251 • www.museumoftherockies.org Dr. Paige Madison will explore recent paleontological findings and current hypotheses as conveyed by scientists actively exploring how life on Earth has changed.

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

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EVENTS CALENDAR 44TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS STROLL Dec 6 - Downtown Bozeman

NEW EVENTS ADDED DAILY AT: www.bozemanmagazine.com

FRIDAY, DEC. 6 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

LIBRARY TOUR 9:15-10am • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org PL invites anyone interested to attend a tour of the building and learn about the wide variety of services and amenities offered to cardholders, visitors and anyone new to the area.

HAPPY HOUR OPEN MIC 5-6:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • FREE • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Join us with host Jon Jacobs! With $4 Beer, Wine, Wells and sets, this is the perfect end of the week activity. With a special featured guest every week!

CHANDLER HUNTLEY 5-8pm • Sacajawea Bar, 5 N Main St, Three Forks • no cover • 21+ • (406) 285-6515 • www.sacajaweahotel. com Local live music while you dine.

WHEATFIELD THEATER: A SOLO EXHIBITION FEATURING MORGAN IRONS 5:30-7:30pm • Old Main Gallery. & Framing, 129 E Main, Bozeman • FREE • 406-587-8860 • www.oldmaingallery. com A continued devotional to the stories of women and the archetypes they carry at different stages of life. This show features both large-scale finished paintings and abbreviated drawings to provide various vantage points.

DRINK AND DRAW WITH @ARTBYWOLVES 6-8pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • FREE • All Ages • 4065772383 • valhallabozeman.com Celtic music with a family friendly environment.

BAR IX TRIVIA 6-8pm • Bar IX, 311 E Main St, Bozeman • 21+ • (406) 551-2185 • www.bar-ix.com Undercover geniuses can try their hand at this spot’s trivia questions.

HOMESTEAD HOLIDAY 6-9pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • Free/child age 0 – 4 $10/child age 5 – 17, $15/adult • (406) 994-2251 • www.museumoftherockies. org Celebrate the winter holiday season with us at the enchanting Tinsley House. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a dazzling seasonal show in the Taylor Planetarium, craft your own Victorian-inspired holiday card, and revel in the joyous melodies of classic Christmas carolers. Registration is required.

HER GIFT, HER CREATION 6pm • Warren Miller Performing Arts Center, 45465 Gallatin Road, Big Sky • $23-33 • 406-995-6345 • www.warrenmillerpac.org A celebration of the talented women of Big Sky highlighting creativity, community, and personal expression.

CELTIC MUSIC 6:30-8:30pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • no cover Each Friday night Valhalla celebrate Celtic culture with music.

FRIDAY NIGHT JAZZ 6:30pm • Red Tractor Pizza, 1007 W Main St, Bozeman • no cover • all ages • (406) 359-1999 • www.redtractorpizza.com Live local music while you dine.

STAND-UP WITH KEVIN MCCAFFREY 7-8:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $24 online, $30 at the door • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com A regular for 7 years on truTV Presents: World’s Dumbest, won on seasons 2 & 3 on truTV’s Comedy Knockout, and was a featured cast member on VH1’s I Love the 2000s and a series of shows on the WWE Network.

LIVE MUSIC 8-10pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Featuring local and touring music acts.

HOLIDAY NOIR 8-10pm • Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture • $35+ • 18+ • 4062066463 • www.eventbrite.com A saucy little holiday show featuring over 50 local performers! Join us for a wildly entertaining burlesque variety show that is sure to sleigh.

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TANNER LAWS 8-11pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • FREE • All Ages • 4062190400 • thejumpmt.com Born and bred Montanan who exemplifies everything it means to be a home-state hero. He has won every award you can think of including Northwest Songwriter of the Year.

HORNBREAD W/ ICARUS 8-11pm • Covellite Theatre, 215 W Broadway St, Butte • $15 • 21+ • 4068393908 • covellitepresents. org Hornbread is back in Butte for a third straight Christmas Stroll! Let’s skank!

HOLIDAY NOIR 8pm • Emerson’s Crawford Theatre, 111 S. Grand Ave., Bozeman • 18+ • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org A burlesque variety show that has a little fun turning traditional holiday interpretations on their head. Get ready to deck our halls with boughs of naughty because this year is going to sleigh!

PONDEROSA BAR TRIVIA 9pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt. com Bar trivia with a 1st place cash prize and a 2nd place prize of a Ponderosa gift card!

IAN THOMAS AND THE BAND OF DRIFTERS 9pm • Chico Hot Springs, 163 Chico Road, Pray • no cover • 21+ • (406) 333-4933 • www.chicohotsprings.com Honky Tonk / Country Folk THE BEAGLES 9pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com Country music from North & South America. Instagram- @thebeagles406

SATURDAY, DEC. 7 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

KIWANIS PANCAKE BREAKFAST 7am-1pm • Gallatin County Fairgrounds, 901 N. Black, Bozeman • $5 for adults, $2.50 for children 12 and under, FREE 5 and under • (406) 582-3270 • www. gallatin.mt.gov his popular event helps the club support projects in the local area with an emphasis to serve youth of the community. Gallatin County Fairgrounds - Exhibit Building 4

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

MUSEUM STORE MEMBER APPRECIATION DAYS 10am-5pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • For Members • All Ages • 4069942251 • museumoftherockies.org Calling all members, to join us for a weekend filled with activities and fun. Enjoy coloring contests, deeper discounts on merchandise, raffles, refreshments, scavenger hunts, and much more!

POKER TOURNAMENT noon-6pm • The Cat’s Paw • $80 • 18+ • 406 404 1968 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament.

Prize Pool Guaranteed to be at least $1500. Registration Open at 11:30 - late register by ~1:45. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

GALLATIN VALLEY YOUTH SPORTS FAIR 1-3pm • Gallatin High School, 4455 Annie St, Bozeman • FREE • Parents and Kids! • (406) 522-4600 • ghs.bsd7.org Meet local sports organizations from the Gallatin Valley. Explore financial aid and scholarship programs available. Bring your kids for some fun activities.

TEEN ANIME ALLIANCE - SPORTS-THEMED ANIME 2-3pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Meet up with fellow fans for a casual monthly hangout. Watch anime, taste-test weird snacks, and more!

MBC’S 41ST ANNUAL NUTCRACKER 2-4pm • Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St., Bozeman • $28-$78 • All Ages • 406-5828702 • montanaballet.easy-ware-ticketing.com/events MBC’s annual production of The Nutcracker in collaboration with the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra is a cherished holiday tradition.

With delightful choreography, stunning sets and costumes, exciting theatrical elements, and world-renowned guest artists.

BOOK SIGNING WITH JANET FOX 3-5pm • Country Bookshelf, 28 W. Main Street, Bozeman • (406)587-0166 • www.countrybookshelf.com Janet Fox will be at Country Bookshelf signing copies of her newest book, The Mystery of Mystic Mountain, as well as her backlist.

44TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS STROLL 4:30-7:30pm • Downtown Bozeman • FREE • ALL AGES Santa Claus will work his way down Main Street, singing Christmas carols and lighting the downtown holidays lights with festive friends in tow.

VICTORIAN HOLIDAY MARKET 4:30-7:30pm • The Extreme History Project • FREE • All Ages • www.facebook.com Come down and stroll by our headquarters during Bozeman’s Christmas Stroll.

At the Extreme History Annual Victorian Holiday Market, you can shop early for all the history-lovers in your family. Browse our gift shop, book store, and exhibits!

BRIAN KASSAY 5-8pm • Sacajawea Bar, 5 N Main St, Three Forks • no cover • 21+ • (406) 285-6515 • www.sacajaweahotel.com Local live music while you dine.

KRAMPUSNAUGHT 2024 5pm • Steep Mtn tea house • FREE • All Ages • 4065808855 • www.facebook.com Bring your fur and horns or just come learn who is Krampus and other cultures.

We’re walking the Christmas stroll after we get tea and I’ll have some fur and horns as well.

HOLIDAY HULLABALOO & CONVOY WATCH PARTY 6-8pm • Belgrade Community Library, 106 N Broadway, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • 4063884346 • www.belgrademt.gov Belgrade Community Library is hosting our annual holiday party and Christmas Convoy Watch Party!

HOMESTEAD HOLIDAY 6-9pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • Free/child age 0 – 4 $10/child age 5 – 17, $15/adult • (406) 994-2251 • www.museumoftherockies. org Celebrate the winter holiday season with us at the enchanting Tinsley House. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a dazzling seasonal show in the Taylor Planetarium, craft your own Victorian-inspired holiday card, and revel in the joyous melodies of classic Christmas carolers. Registration is required.

2ND ANNUAL SKI MOVIE 6-11pm • The Covellite Theatre and Uptown Lounge • $20 • All Ages • 4063331658 • theticketing. co 2nd Annual Ski Movie FUNDRAISER for Nepal. Hosted by: Padma Organization

MSU MENS BBALL VS KANSAS CITY 6pm • Brick Breeden Fieldhouse, 1 Bobcat Circle, Bozeman • (406) 994-CATS • www. brickbreeden.com Go Cats! ESPN+ and on the court in Bozeman.

BILLET TEAM SHOWCASE 7-7:45pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $10 • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Locally sourced independent Improv Teams show their stuff from Long-form teams to a musical improv team. Tonight: 20th Century Breakown & Cowards MBC’S 41ST ANNUAL NUTCRACKER 7-9pm • Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St., Bozeman • $28-$78 • All Ages • 406-5828702 • montanaballet.easy-ware-ticketing.com/events MBC’s annual production of The Nutcracker in collaboration with the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra is a cherished holiday tradition.

With delightful choreography, stunning sets and costumes, exciting theatrical elements, and world-renowned guest artists.

ATLIENS 7-11pm • The ELM • $35 ADV; $39 DOS • All Ages • 4068304640 • logjampresents.com In recent years, ATLiens have toured globally across North America and Australia with their unearthly ‘Abduction Tour’, ‘Space Cult Tour’ and many more.

NOTORIOUS BOZ W/ ALISON YATES 8-9pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $15 • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Long-form improv show that celebrates the city of Bozeman, its history and incredible citizens will feature Alison Yates, an actor, improviser and writer who has appeared on shows like Better Call Saul, and more!

HOLIDAY NOIR 8-10pm • Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture • $35+ • 18+ • 4062066463 • www.eventbrite.com A saucy little holiday show featuring over 50 local performers! Join us for a wildly entertaining burlesque variety show that is sure to sleigh.

SALTY GRAVY 8-10pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • $10 in advance, $15 at the door • 21+ • 4065795412 • lokkenproductions.net Featuring local legend Silas Rea on fiddle and mandolin and national vagabond Cabot Metz on guitar and banjo, we pride ourselves on playing traditional American music.

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER 10pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • $5 • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt.com Cosmic/disco bowling! Late Night Happy Hour drinks, throwback music videos, disco music!

SUNDAY, DEC. 8 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

MUSEUM STORE MEMBER APPRECIATION DAYS 10am-5pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • For Members • All Ages • 4069942251 • museumoftherockies.org Calling all members, to join us for a weekend filled with activities and fun. Enjoy coloring contests, deeper discounts on merchandise, raffles, refreshments, scavenger hunts, and much more!

SILVER MOON MARKET 11am-5pm • Gallatin County Fairgrounds • 406-599-3232 • www.miguelandcovintage.com Vintage clothing & goods plus Montana artists.

MBC’S 41ST ANNUAL NUTCRACKER noon-2pm • Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St., Bozeman • $28-$78 • All Ages • 406582-8702 • montanaballet.easy-ware-ticketing.com/events MBC’s annual production of The Nutcracker in collaboration with the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra is a cherished holiday tradition.

With delightful choreography, stunning sets and costumes, exciting theatrical elements, and world-renowned guest artists.

POKER TOURNAMENT noon-6pm • The Cat’s Paw • $80 • 18+ • 406 404 1968 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament.

Prize Pool Guaranteed to be at least $1500. Registration Open at 11:30 - late register by ~1:45. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

HOLIDAY NOIR 8pm • Emerson’s Crawford Theatre, 111 S. Grand Ave., Bozeman • 18+ • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org A burlesque variety show that has a little fun turning traditional holiday interpretations on their head. Get ready to deck our halls with boughs of naughty because this year is going to sleigh!

JOHN FLORIDIS & FRIENDS BENEFIT FOR THE GALLATIN VALLEY FOOD BANK 8pm • Live From the Divide, 627 East Peach Street, Bozeman • $35 ADV • livefromthedivide.com Montana guitarist and singer-songwriter John Floridis along with percussionist Ed Stalling and cellist Jennifer Slayden and special guest Cade Slayden of North Fork Crossing will be performing a benefit concert for Gallatin Valley Food Bank.

WESTERN ROOTS COUNTRY DANCING 8pm-12:30am • Bourbon, 515 W Aspen St, Bozeman • no cover • bourbonmt.com Learn to line dance with Western Roots Dancing at 8pm then dance and party the night away!

COLOUR BLIND 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Just some guys who love music. Indie Rock / Folk band based in Bozeman, Montana IAN THOMAS AND THE BAND OF DRIFTERS 9pm • Chico Hot Springs, 163 Chico Road, Pray • no cover • 21+ • (406) 333-4933 • www.chicohotsprings.com Honky Tonk / Country Folk BAD NEIGHBOR 9pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com Country music from North & South America. Instagram- @thebeagles406 WHIZ BANG! INTOXICATING COMEDY 9:30-10:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $15 • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com An explosion of intoxicating comedy! Exciting, high-energy, short-form improv that is so funny it’s criminal.

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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EVENTS CALENDAR THE BROADWAY MUSICAL - ANNIE Dec 11-22 - The Ellen Theatre

ADD YOUR OWN EVENTS AT: www.bozemanmagazine.com SUNDAY DANCE 1-5pm • American Legion Manhattan, 218 E Main St, Manhattan • $10 • 21+ • 406-284-6138 “Lula’s Roadie,” a fantastic and lively group playing an extremely wide range of dancing music that will “tickle the toes” of our entire Sunday dancing family.

BOARD GAME NIGHT 6-7:45pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • Adults • 406-570-7752 • www. bozemanlibrary.org A chance to test your strategy and teamwork skills with board games and other adults. Join us at the library for some table top fun.

FAMILY MAKER LAB - TISSUE PAPER ART 2-3:30pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-5707752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Crinkle, cut, and collage delicate paper.

GAME NIGHT LIVE TRIVIA 6-8pm • Wildrye Distilling, 111 East Oak Street Suite 1E, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-2288 • www.wildryedistilling.com With Picture Rounds, Sound Rounds, Word Jumbles and more.. There’s Something for Everyone.

CELTIC MUSIC 3-5pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • no cover • all ages Enjoy Celtic music at the Meadery each Sunday afternoon.

TRIVIA NIGHT 7-9pm • Bacchus Pub, 105 W Main St, Bozeman • 406 404-1996 • www.bacchuspub.com Join us for our weekly trivia night, Game Night Live is a leader in bar trivia and music bingo, putting on awesome games at local venues that everyone can enjoy.

MBC’S 41ST ANNUAL NUTCRACKER 4-6pm • Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St., Bozeman • $28-$78 • All Ages • 406-5828702 • montanaballet.easy-ware-ticketing.com/events MBC’s annual production of The Nutcracker in collaboration with the Bozeman Symphony Orchestra is a cherished holiday tradition.

With delightful choreography, stunning sets and costumes, exciting theatrical elements, and world-renowned guest artists.

PAINT YOUR PET 4-7pm • The Bunkhouse Brewery, 7715 Shedhorn Dr., Four Corners • $75 • 2182341437 • aintabetterwaytopaint.com Buy your ticket online FIRST, Send pics of your pet to the email at checkout and I’ll trace the important details of your pet onto a canvas for you to paint.

BOTTLECAP 7-10pm • Bozeman Hot Springs & Fitness, 81123 Gallatin Road, Four Corners • With Admission • All Ages • 4065866492 • bozemanhotsprings.co Live music while you soak!

Featuring the local jam-rock group “Bottlecap”.

MONDAY, DEC. 9 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

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SACAJAWEA AUDUBON SOCIETY’S SPECIAL HOLIDAY PROGRAM 7pm • Emerson’s Crawford Theatre, 111 S. Grand Ave., Bozeman • FREE • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org Join Sacajawea Audubon Society for our annual special holiday program with wildlife photographer Tom Murphy. Enter the raffle to win Bridger Bowl Ski 2024/25 season passes. Two winners will be drawn at the end of the program.

SPORTS TRIVIA 7:30pm • Rockin’ R Bar, 211 E. Main St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 587-9355 • www.rockingrbar.com For those looking for more sporty trivia questions this is it.

TUESDAY, DEC. 10 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

YOGA 12:15pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Join certified yoga instructor Sara Clary for a gentle 45-minute flow.

GALLATIN COUNTY CORONER’S OFFICE BURIES UNCLAIMED REMAINS 1:30pm • Sunset Hills Cemetery, Bozeman Unclaimed urns will be buried at the Sunset Hills Cemetery, a reading of the names and a prayer by the Gallatin County Chaplain will be performed graveside. This event will be open to the public.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

GRIEF / LOSS / BEREAVEMENT GROUP 4:30-5:30pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • Adults • 4065822413 • www.bozemanlibrary.org For those who have experienced grief or loss in any form.

NONFICTION WRITING GROUP 5:30-7:30pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Hobby writers are welcome to share your work with other writers, critique content, and develop your ability.

GNL TRIVIA 6-8pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • FREE • (406) 518-5011 • www.thejumpmt.com Accessible and amazing trivia for everyone, always an awesome time.

Prizes for winners.

LAST BEST PLACE TRIVIA 6pm • Last Best Place Brewery, 605 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman This brewery hosts trivia every Tuesday night at 6pm and offers some non-alcoholic choices as well like some N/A beers along with some drinks for kids like juice boxes.

TRIVIA NIGHT 6:30pm • Hop Lounge, 93 Rowland Rd, Bozeman • no cover • all ages • (406) 404-1784 Grab some friends and get there early to grab a table the first round starts at 6:30!

POKER TOURNAMENT 7-11pm • The Golden Zebra • $40 • 18+ • 4062192436 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament. $200 Added. Great way to learn the game! Registration Open at 6:30 - late register by ~7:30. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

RHINO TRIVIA 7pm • Rhino Lounge Liquor and Casino, Belgrade • 21+ Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday team up to conquer trivia COMEDY HOUR OPEN MIC 8-10pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • FREE • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Our weekly open mic is a safe, friendly, supportive place to start your comedy journey, try new material, and connect to the Bozeman Stand up scene. Jump in or just enjoy the laughs!

BINGO 8pm • The Molly Brown, 703 W. Babcock, Bozeman • 21+ • (406) 552-7362 Patrons can gather their friends or fellow bingo addicts together and share in a night of fun.

TUESDAY INDUSTRY NIGHT 9pm • The Waypoint, 50 Ousel Falls Rd, Big Sky • no cover • 21+ • thebigskywaypoint.com Join us every Tuesday 9pm-late for beer pong, drink discounts, beer dice, and $3 pizza slices!

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 11 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

BOZEMAN MUSIC NIGHT WITH AARON BANFIELD 5:30pm • Bridger Brewing Co, 1609 S 11th Ave, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 587-2124 • www.bridgerbrewing.com Come enjoy some tunes with us!

KATABATIC TRIVIA 6-7pm • Katabatic Brewing Company, 117 W Park St, Livingston • 21+ • (406) 333-2855 • katabaticbrewing. blogspot.com The winners of this establishment’s weekly trivia competition are given a prize fit for their accomplishments: they get to drink for free!

GNL TRIVIA WEDNESDAY 6-8pm • SHINE Beer Sanctuary + Bottle Shop, 451 E Main St, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 585-8558 • shinebeer.com Come Check Out the Most Accessible, Varied, and Fun Trivia Nights Designed for Anyone who Loves to Play Games. Free-to-Play & Prizes for the Winners.

GAME NIGHT LIVE TRIVIA 6-8pm • Audreys Pizza Oven & Freefall Brewery, 806 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman • No Cover • (406) 522-5456 • www.audreyspizzaoven.com Come Check Out the Most Accessible, Varied, and Fun Trivia Nights Designed for Anyone who Loves to Play Games!

LADIES NIGHT 8pm-2am • Club Zebra, 321 E Main St, Bozeman • $10 for guys • 21+ The wonderful Ladies of Bozeman can enjoy 2 free drinks, $3 drinks till 10 pm, and that booty shakin’ music provided by DJ Chedda.

BEN LARSON AND THE GROWNASS MEN 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com The Grownass Men were road warriors in 2023, playing 117 shows from Harlowton to Dillon to Whitefish, opening for bands such as Big Richard, Eli Howard and the Greater Good and Laney Lou and the Bird Dogs and building a dedicated following in every small Montana town along the way.

THURSDAY, DEC. 12 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

BOZEMAN ICE CLIMBING FESTIVAL PRESENTS: APRÈS CLIMB 5-7:30pm • Emerson Ballroom, 111 S. Grand, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org Come meet our sponsors and athletes, troll for belay partners, and have dinner with us with food available for purchase from our official food suppliers.

SINGO 6-8pm • Last Best Place Brewery, 605 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman • 21+ Do you like music? Are you a fan of Bingo? Bring a group for Singo and relax for some fun and beer.

OPEN MIC WEDNESDAYS 6-9:30pm • The Bunkhouse Brewery, 7715 Shedhorn Dr., Four Corners • FREE • All Ages • (406) 577-2130 Music! Comedy! Solo Artists! Bands! Spoken word!

Whatever! All are welcome! 15 min slots, call or stop in to sign up. Open jam at 9. Full PA and lights provided.

FLY-TYING NIGHT 6-9pm • Bozeman Fly Supply, 2621 W College, Bozeman • FREE Bring your vise, tools, materials, and beverages to tie some flies. This is not a class but an invitation for all to get out of the house, get behind the vise, and have fun with fellow tiers.

STORY MANSION STRING JAM 7-9pm • The Story Mansion, 811 S. Willson, Bozeman • 406-582-2910 • www.friendsofthestory.org As a group, we will pick our favorite songs and fill the mansion with music! This is an Acoustic String Jam.

RURAL MONTANA: CONNECT TO THRIVE! 6:30-7:45pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Two rural Montana public health enthusiasts discuss findings from surveys and interviews about the health, needs, strengths, and future of their communities. Registration required.

BINGO 7-9pm • American Legion Bar, 225 E. Main St., Bozeman • 18+ • (406) 586-8400 • www.facebook.com 100% of the proceeds go to assisting our Veterans, their families, our youth programs, and the community.

WESTERN SWING WEDNESDAYS 7-11pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • Lessons $10 • 21+ after 9pm • (406) 518-5011 • www.thejumpmt.com There will be a great dance floor every week, your favorite instructors, and all the country music you love from Bozeman’s Choice 2023 DJ, DJ Habes.

LIVE MUSIC AT PONDEROSA SOCIAL CLUB 7pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt.com Free live music every Wednesday starting at 7pm.

TRIVIA NIGHT 7:30pm • Rockin’ R Bar, 211 E. Main St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 587-9355 • www.rockingrbar.com Regular party animals and intellectuals alike may enjoy Rockin R Trivia.

ANNIE THE MUSICAL 7:30pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $38, $48, $64 • all ages • (406) 585-5885 • www. theellentheatre.com Presented by Montana TheatreWorks (Mary Poppins, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music), this heartwarming family musical features many hit songs including “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “Little Girls,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” and “Tomorrow”.

TRIVIA NIGHT 8pm • The Molly Brown, 703 W. Babcock, Bozeman • 21+ • (406) 552-7362 Gather your friends for a night of trivia fun each Wednesday.

OPEN JAMS 8pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com Open jam session

ANNIE THE MUSICAL 7:30pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $38, $48, $64 • all ages • (406) 585-5885 • www. theellentheatre.com Presented by Montana TheatreWorks (Mary Poppins, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music), this heartwarming family musical features many hit songs including “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “Little Girls,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” and “Tomorrow”.

BOZEMAN ICE CLIMBING FESTIVAL PRESENTS: THE BEST OF REEL ROCK 7:30pm • Emerson’s Crawford Theatre, 111 S. Grand Ave., Bozeman • $15 General Admission or $38 VIP Move Pass • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org For two decades, Reel Rock has been sharing the biggest stories from the world of climbing, celebrating the human side behind the sport’s greatest adventures and achievements.

LIVE MUSIC 8-10pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com The Tune Up is host to live music multiple times per week.

MATHIAS 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Bozemanbased singer-songwriter Mathias has been playing music under the big sky of Montana for over two decades now.

FRIDAY, DEC. 13 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

HAPPY HOUR OPEN MIC 5-6:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • FREE • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Join us with host Jon Jacobs! With $4 Beer, Wine, Wells and sets, this is the perfect end of the week activity. With a special featured guest every week!

VINTAGE SWING SOCIAL 7-8pm • La Brasserie, 31 S Willson Ave, Bozeman • (406) 414-9693 • www.labrasseriemt.com Join the Downbeat Vintage Swing Society for our weekly vintage swing social, we host an introductory swing lesson, followed by a social to dance.

KGLT DJ NIGHT 7-9pm • Hop Lounge, 93 Rowland Rd, Bozeman • no cover • all ages • (406) 404-1784 Don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in the vibe that is the Hop Lounge and join the Guest DJ for KGLT Alternative Public Radio DJ Night.

THURSDAY NIGHT OUT 7-9pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $15, $5 MSU Students • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Improv Thursday Nights are back and it’s the perfect time to check our hilarious improv shows! A showcase of some of our teams paired with our signature shows.

BINGO NIGHT 7-10pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • $20 • 18+ • (406) 518-5011 • www.thejumpmt.com It’s a game that we all know and love, so why not bring everyone down for dinner and drinks!

REUBEN SINNEMA 7-10pm • Bozeman Hot Springs & Fitness, 81123 Gallatin Road, Four Corners • With Admission • All Ages • 4065866492 • bozemanhotsprings.co Live music while you soak!

Featuring the local acoustic rocker Reuben Sinnema.

THE GREY DOG BAR KARAOKE 7pm • Grey Dog Bar, 34 N Bozeman Ave, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 404-1014 • www.thegreydogbar. com Karaoke at the Grey Dog Bar

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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EVENTS CALENDAR GARY SMALL AND THE COYOTE BROS. Dec 13+14 - Chico Hot Springs

NEW EVENTS ADDED DAILY AT: www.bozemanmagazine.com BOZEMAN ICE CLIMBING FESTIVAL PRESENTS: APRÈS CLIMB 5-7:30pm • Emerson Ballroom, 111 S. Grand, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org Come meet our sponsors and athletes, troll for belay partners, and have dinner with us with food available for purchase from our official food suppliers.

ARTISTS’ GALLEY WINTER ART WALK 5-8pm • Artists’ Gallery (inside) the Emerson Center for Arts and Culture • FREE • All Ages • 406-587-2127 • www.artistsgallerybozeman.com Come shop, sip and be merry at the Artists’ Gallery’s Winter Art Walk. Start your evening here to meet artists and shop for gifts that are unique and one of a kind, before making your way downtown. Over 20 local artists / members here!

COLE DECKER 5-8pm • Sacajawea Bar, 5 N Main St, Three Forks • no cover • 21+ • (406) 285-6515 • www.sacajaweahotel.com Local live music while you dine.

KIDS NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM 5-8:30pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • $50/Member, $55/nonmember • Ages 5–10 • (406) 994-2251 • www.museumoftherockies.org Enjoy a child-free evening while your little ones tour the exhibits with flashlights. This drop-off event includes pizza dinner, fun activities, and a showing of Good Dinosaur. Redstart Classroom Limited availability. Registration required.

BAR IX TRIVIA 6-8pm • Bar IX, 311 E Main St, Bozeman • 21+ • (406) 551-2185 • www.bar-ix.com Undercover geniuses can try their hand at this spot’s trivia questions.

WINTER ART WALK 2024 6-8pm • Downtown Bozeman, Bozeman • FREE The Downtown Bozeman Association and participating businesses invite you to a special “Winter” Art Walk, many shops will feature local artists and often provide hors d’oeuvres and complimentary refreshments. This is a wonderful chance to stroll Downtown Bozeman, take in some art and culture, and knock out some holiday shopping!

HOMESTEAD HOLIDAY 6-9pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • Free/child age 0 – 4 $10/child age 5 – 17, $15/adult • (406) 994-2251 • www.museumoftherockies. org Celebrate the winter holiday season with us at the enchanting Tinsley House. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a dazzling seasonal show in the Taylor Planetarium, craft your own Victorian-inspired holiday card, and revel in the joyous melodies of classic Christmas carolers. Registration is required.

CELTIC MUSIC 6:30-8:30pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • no cover Each Friday night Valhalla celebrate Celtic culture with music.

STAND-UP W/ BILLY WAYNE DAVIS 7-8:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $24 (ADV), $30 (DOS) • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com A stand-up & writer who has performed in 41 states, 4 countries and Texas. He has appeared on NBC’s Last Comic Standing, WTF with Marc Maron, and many more!

OF THE TREES 7-11pm • The ELM • $30 (Adv.) $35 (DOS) • 18+ • 4068304640 • logjampresents.com Logjam Presents is pleased to welcome Of The Trees live in concert.

BOZEMAN SYMPHONY: HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR 7:30-9pm • Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St., Bozeman • $30 on up • All Ages • 4065859774 • www.bozemansymphony.org This annual Symphony tradition promises a festive celebration filled with timeless classics, jazzy holiday favorites, and a joyful sing-along, guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages.

ANNIE THE MUSICAL 7:30pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $38, $48, $64 • all ages • (406) 585-5885 • www. theellentheatre.com Presented by Montana TheatreWorks (Mary Poppins, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music), this heartwarming family musical features many hit songs including “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “Little Girls,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” and “Tomorrow”.

BOZEMAN ICE CLIMBING FESTIVAL PRESENTS: NEAR & FAR + MORE 7:30pm • Emerson’s Crawford Theatre, 111 S. Grand Ave., Bozeman • $15 General Admission or $38 VIP Move Pass • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org Friday evening at the Emerson includes the Bear Canyon Singers & Dancers and screenings of Near & Far, A Fine Line and Soundscape.

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RAISE THE ROOF 8-11pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • FREE • All Ages • 4062190400 • thejumpmt.com This 5-piece sensation is a boot-scoot down musical memory lane, playing favorite songs from every decade.

STAND-UP W/ BILLY WAYNE DAVIS 9-10:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $24 (ADV), $30 (DOS) • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com A stand-up & writer who has performed in 41 states, 4 countries and Texas. He has appeared on NBC’s Last Comic Standing, WTF with Marc Maron, and many more!

LOST CANYONS 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Lost Canyons started as a dream in 2016. That dream came to fruition with our debut EP, Drive By Volume, released in 2021.

PONDEROSA BAR TRIVIA 9pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt. com Bar trivia with a 1st place cash prize and a 2nd place prize of a Ponderosa gift card!

GARY SMALL AND THE COYOTE BROTHERS 9pm • Chico Hot Springs, 163 Chico Road, Pray • no cover • 21+ • (406) 333-4933 • www.chicohotsprings.com Purveyors of Fine Boogie Music.

MONTANA DELUXE 9pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com American Rock and Roll, Blues, Surf Music

SATURDAY, DEC. 14 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

SANTA PAWS 10am-2pm • Heart of the Valley Shelter • FREE, suggested $10 donation • All Ages • 4063889399 • www.facebook. com Join us for our annual Santa Paws - pet photos with Santa!

Please bring a suggested $10 donation to help care for our shelter pets.

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

POKER TOURNAMENT noon-6pm • The Cat’s Paw • $80 • 18+ • 406 404 1968 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament.

Prize Pool Guaranteed to be at least $1500. Registration Open at 11:30 - late register by ~1:45. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

A CIRCUS CAROL 2-3:30pm • Petra Auditorium • $20-$50 • All Ages • 406-404-6208 • www.406cirque.com Charles Dickens meets contemporary circus in a whimsy adaptation of a holiday classic.

CROCHET AND KNITTING WORKSHOP 2-4pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Learn how to knit and crochet or bring tricky and troublesome projects to get help from accomplished artists. Registration preferred.

BOZEMAN SYMPHONY: HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR 2:30-4pm • Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St., Bozeman • $30 on up • All Ages • 4065859774 • www.bozemansymphony.org This annual Symphony tradition promises a festive celebration filled with timeless classics, jazzy holiday favorites, and a joyful sing-along, guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages.

BOZEMAN ICE CLIMBING FESTIVAL PRESENTS: APRÈS CLIMB 5-7:30pm • Emerson Ballroom, 111 S. Grand, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org Come meet our sponsors and athletes, troll for belay partners, and have dinner with us with food available for purchase from our official food suppliers.

HOMESTEAD HOLIDAY 6-9pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • Free/child age 0 – 4 $10/child age 5 – 17, $15/adult • (406) 994-2251 • www.museumoftherockies. org Celebrate the winter holiday season with us at the enchanting Tinsley House. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit with a dazzling seasonal show in the Taylor Planetarium, craft your own Victorian-inspired holiday card, and revel in the joyous melodies of classic Christmas carolers. Registration is required.

BILLET TEAM SHOWCASE 7-7:45pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $10 • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Teen Angst & Hot Mouth.

Locally sourced independent Improv Teams show their stuff; From Long-form teams to a musical improv team.

A CIRCUS CAROL 7-8:30pm • Petra Auditorium • $20-$50 • All Ages • 406-404-6208 • www.406cirque.com Charles Dickens meets contemporary circus in a whimsy adaptation of a holiday classic.

DAN HENRY THE ONE MAN BAND 7-10pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • FREE • All Ages • 4062190400 • thejumpmt.com Multi-instrumentalist Dan Henry has been wowing crowds for over a decade with his one-man-band footstomping style!

BALLROOM DANCE BOZEMAN’S HOLIDAY PARTY DANCE! 7-10pm • Bozeman Senior Center, 807 N. Tracy Ave, Bozeman • $20 per person, included in Season Pass • www.ballroomdancebozeman.org Come celebrate with us at our very merry Holiday Party Dance! No partner needed. You don’t have to be an expert dancer to join in. Attire is festive, plus clean (not outside) dance shoes to protect the dancefloor. Bring all your friends!

MADELINE HAWTHORNE 7pm • Rialto • $15 (Adv.) $18 (DOS) • All Ages • 4068304640 • logjampresents.com Logjam Presents is pleased to welcome Madeline Hawthorne for a live in concert performance.

CACTUS CUT 7pm • Pine Creek Lodge, 2496 E. River Road, Livingston • $20 ADV, $30 DOS • All Ages • (406) 222-3628 • www. pinecreeklodgemontana.com Cactus Cuts, a five-piece Americana band from Bozeman, continues to captivate audiences by weaving together modern songwriting with Americana styling.

BOZEMAN SYMPHONY: HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR 7:30-9pm • Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St., Bozeman • $30 on up • All Ages • 4065859774 • www.bozemansymphony.org This annual Symphony tradition promises a festive celebration filled with timeless classics, jazzy holiday favorites, and a joyful sing-along, guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages.

ANNIE THE MUSICAL 7:30pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $38, $48, $64 • all ages • (406) 585-5885 • www. theellentheatre.com Presented by Montana TheatreWorks (Mary Poppins, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music), this heartwarming family musical features many hit songs including “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “Little Girls,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” and “Tomorrow”.

BOZEMAN ICE CLIMBING FESTIVAL PRESENTS: KENDAL MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL 7:30pm • Emerson’s Crawford Theatre, 111 S. Grand Ave., Bozeman • $15 General Admission or $38 VIP Move Pass • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org Saturday evening at the Emerson includes the Kendal Mountaineering Film Festival.

NOTORIOUS BOZ W/ SOREN KISEL 8-9pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $15 • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Long-form improv show that celebrates the city of Bozeman, its history and its incredible citizens. Featuring Soren Kisel locally loved comedian, author, and teacher!

LIVE MUSIC 8-10pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Featuring local and touring music acts.

MADELINE EDWARDS 8-10pm • Rialto Theatre, 10 West Main St, Bozeman • 406-404-7911 • concerts50.com Madeline Edwards brings her soulful blend of country, jazz, and R&B to Bozeman, promising an evening rich with emotional depth and powerful vocals. Known for her hit songs like “The Road” and “Hold My Horses”.

WESTERN ROOTS COUNTRY DANCING 8pm-12:30am • Bourbon, 515 W Aspen St, Bozeman • no cover • bourbonmt.com Learn to line dance with Western Roots Dancing at 8pm then dance and party the night away!

FAMILY MAKER LAB - COOKIE DECORATING 2-3:30pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Fabricate fancy festive sugar cookies.

BOZEMAN SYMPHONY: HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR 2:30-4pm • Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St., Bozeman • $30 on up • All Ages • 4065859774 • www.bozemansymphony.org This annual Symphony tradition promises a festive celebration filled with timeless classics, jazzy holiday favorites, and a joyful sing-along, guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages.

CELTIC MUSIC 3-5pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • no cover • all ages Enjoy Celtic music at the Meadery each Sunday afternoon.

SKATE WITH SANTA 3-5pm • Haynes Pavilion | Gallatin County Fairgrounds, 901 North Black, Bozeman • $10, skates included • all ages • (406) 582-3270 • www.gallatin.mt.gov Any adult or child can skate with Santa and includes skate rental if needed. The rest of the family can enter and watch at no cost. Come early for a Holiday Ice Show from 1:30-3 PM. ANNIE THE MUSICAL 3pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $38, $48, $64 • all ages • (406) 585-5885 • www. theellentheatre.com Presented by Montana TheatreWorks (Mary Poppins, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music), this heartwarming family musical features many hit songs including “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “Little Girls,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” and “Tomorrow”.

PAINT & SIP - MOONLIT LONE PEAK 4-6pm • Audreys Pizza Oven & Freefall Brewery, 806 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman • $47 • 2182341437 • aintabetterwaytopaint.com Paint your own Moonlit Lone Peak with us at Audrey’s Pizza! We’ll bring the painting supplies, we just need you.

SUNRISE KARAOKE 9pm • Sacajawea Bar, 5 N Main St, Three Forks • no cover • 21+ • (406) 285-6515 • www.sacajaweahotel. com Come out and sing!

GARY SMALL AND THE COYOTE BROTHERS 9pm • Chico Hot Springs, 163 Chico Road, Pray • no cover • 21+ • (406) 333-4933 • www.chicohotsprings.com Purveyors of Fine Boogie Music.

PICKIN’ PEAR 9pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com folk, rock, and bluegrass. Instagram- @pickinpear Website- www.pickinpear. com WHIZ BANG! INTOXICATING COMEDY 9:30-10:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $15 • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com An explosion of intoxicating comedy! Exciting, high-energy, short-form improv that is so funny it’s criminal.

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER 10pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • $5 • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt.com Cosmic/disco bowling! Late Night Happy Hour drinks, throwback music videos, disco music!

SUNDAY, DEC. 15 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

POKER TOURNAMENT noon-6pm • The Cat’s Paw • $80 • 18+ • 406 404 1968 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament.

Prize Pool Guaranteed to be at least $1500. Registration Open at 11:30 - late register by ~1:45. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

CRAFTERNOONS 1-5pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Create something fun and develop new skills.

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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GREATER YELLOWSTONE

EVENTS CALENDAR BRIAN KASSAY Dec 19 - The Tune Up

ADD YOUR OWN EVENTS AT: www.bozemanmagazine.com BOZEMAN ICE CLIMBING FESTIVAL PRESENTS: APRÈS CLIMB 5-7:30pm • Emerson Ballroom, 111 S. Grand, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org Come meet our sponsors and athletes, troll for belay partners, and have dinner with us with food available for purchase from our official food suppliers.

BOARD GAME NIGHT 6-7:45pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • Adults • 406-570-7752 • www. bozemanlibrary.org A chance to test your strategy and teamwork skills with board games and other adults. Join us at the library for some table top fun.

THE NUTCRACKER FROM MONTANA BALLET 5pm • Warren Miller Performing Arts Center, 45465 Gallatin Road, Big Sky • $23-33 • 406-995-6345 • www.warrenmillerpac.org Montana Ballet Company’s production of The Nutcracker is one of the region’s largest artistic collaborations, bringing together talented dancers, local and national choreographers, guest artists, live musicians, and expert designers. Audiences will be enchanted by the new choreography, theatrical elements, and the magic of this iconic ballet.

GAME NIGHT LIVE TRIVIA 6-8pm • Wildrye Distilling, 111 East Oak Street Suite 1E, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-2288 • www.wildryedistilling.com With Picture Rounds, Sound Rounds, Word Jumbles and more.. There’s Something for Everyone.

BOZEMAN ICE CLIMBING FESTIVAL PRESENTS: LOCAL LEGENDS DINNER & WRAP PARTY 6pm • Emerson’s Crawford Theatre, 111 S. Grand Ave., Bozeman • $15 General Admission or $38 VIP Move Pass • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org Join us for dinner and an evening with longtime climber and coach, Marcus Garcia as he shares “Beyond the Climb,” a short film exploring relationships that span generations of climbers.

NORTH FORK CROSSING 7-10pm • Bozeman Hot Springs & Fitness, 81123 Gallatin Road, Four Corners • With Admission • All Ages • 4065866492 • bozemanhotsprings.co Live music while you soak! Featuring the local bluegrass trio “North Fork Crossing”.

MONDAY, DEC. 16 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

TRIVIA NIGHT 7-9pm • Bacchus Pub, 105 W Main St, Bozeman • 406 404-1996 • www.bacchuspub.com Join us for our weekly trivia night, Game Night Live is a leader in bar trivia and music bingo, putting on awesome games at local venues that everyone can enjoy.

SPORTS TRIVIA 7:30pm • Rockin’ R Bar, 211 E. Main St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 587-9355 • www.rockingrbar.com For those looking for more sporty trivia questions this is it.

TUESDAY, DEC. 17 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

YOGA 12:15pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Join certified yoga instructor Sara Clary for a gentle 45-minute flow.

WINTER WONDERLAND - THE SWEETEST TREATS 5-7pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Use sugar to make fun wintery treats with Amy Spicka.

NONFICTION WRITING GROUP 5:30-7:30pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Hobby writers are welcome to share your work with other writers, critique content, and develop your ability.

GNL TRIVIA 6-8pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • FREE • (406) 518-5011 • www.thejumpmt.com Accessible and amazing trivia for everyone, always an awesome time.

Prizes for winners.

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Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

LAST BEST PLACE TRIVIA 6pm • Last Best Place Brewery, 605 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman This brewery hosts trivia every Tuesday night at 6pm and offers some non-alcoholic choices as well like some N/A beers along with some drinks for kids like juice boxes.

TRIVIA NIGHT 6:30pm • Hop Lounge, 93 Rowland Rd, Bozeman • no cover • all ages • (406) 404-1784 Grab some friends and get there early to grab a table the first round starts at 6:30!

POKER TOURNAMENT 7-11pm • The Golden Zebra • $40 • 18+ • 4062192436 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament. $200 Added. Great way to learn the game! Registration Open at 6:30 - late register by ~7:30. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

COMEDY HOUR OPEN MIC 8-10pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • FREE • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Our weekly open mic is a safe, friendly, supportive place to start your comedy journey, try new material, and connect to the Bozeman Stand up scene. Jump in or just enjoy the laughs!

BINGO 8pm • The Molly Brown, 703 W. Babcock, Bozeman • 21+ • (406) 552-7362 Patrons can gather their friends or fellow bingo addicts together and share in a night of fun.

TUESDAY INDUSTRY NIGHT 9pm • The Waypoint, 50 Ousel Falls Rd, Big Sky • no cover • 21+ • thebigskywaypoint.com Join us every Tuesday 9pm-late for beer pong, drink discounts, beer dice, and $3 pizza slices!

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 18 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

LIBRARY BOOK CLUB 3-4:15pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www. bozemanlibrary.org Lively and engaging discussions, everyone welcome!

SINGING SOULS SENIOR SING-ALONG 3:30pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Sing-Along for Seniors

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

KATABATIC TRIVIA 6-7pm • Katabatic Brewing Company, 117 W Park St, Livingston • 21+ • (406) 333-2855 • katabaticbrewing. blogspot.com The winners of this establishment’s weekly trivia competition are given a prize fit for their accomplishments: they get to drink for free!

GNL TRIVIA WEDNESDAY 6-8pm • SHINE Beer Sanctuary + Bottle Shop, 451 E Main St, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 585-8558 • shinebeer.com Come Check Out the Most Accessible, Varied, and Fun Trivia Nights Designed for Anyone who Loves to Play Games. Free-to-Play & Prizes for the Winners.

GAME NIGHT LIVE TRIVIA 6-8pm • Audreys Pizza Oven & Freefall Brewery, 806 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman • No Cover • (406) 522-5456 • www.audreyspizzaoven.com Come Check Out the Most Accessible, Varied, and Fun Trivia Nights Designed for Anyone who Loves to Play Games!

LIBRARY BOOK CLUB 6:15-8pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www. bozemanlibrary.org Lively and engaging discussions, everyone welcome!

BINGO 7-9pm • American Legion Bar, 225 E. Main St., Bozeman • 18+ • (406) 586-8400 • www.facebook.com 100% of the proceeds go to assisting our Veterans, their families, our youth programs, and the community.

WESTERN SWING WEDNESDAYS 7-11pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • Lessons $10 • 21+ after 9pm • (406) 518-5011 • www.thejumpmt.com There will be a great dance floor every week, your favorite instructors, and all the country music you love from Bozeman’s Choice 2023 DJ, DJ Habes.

LIVE MUSIC AT PONDEROSA SOCIAL CLUB 7pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt.com Free live music every Wednesday starting at 7pm.

ICEDOGS HOCKEY VS. ATLANTA CAPITOLS 7pm • Haynes Pavilion | Gallatin County Fairgrounds, 901 North Black, Bozeman • adult $10, senior $8, student $5 • (406) 582-3270 • www.gallatin. mt.gov Junior hockey in fine form.

ODIE LEIGH 7pm • Live From the Divide, 627 East Peach Street, Bozeman • $40 • livefromthedivide.com Acoustic, ethereal folk sad girl music to a harder-edge tunes that flirt with early Aughts pop-punktivism.

TRIVIA NIGHT 7:30pm • Rockin’ R Bar, 211 E. Main St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 587-9355 • www.rockingrbar.com Regular party animals and intellectuals alike may enjoy Rockin R Trivia.

ANNIE THE MUSICAL 7:30pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $38, $48, $64 • all ages • (406) 585-5885 • www. theellentheatre.com Presented by Montana TheatreWorks (Mary Poppins, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music), this heartwarming family musical features many hit songs including “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “Little Girls,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” and “Tomorrow”.

TRIVIA NIGHT 8pm • The Molly Brown, 703 W. Babcock, Bozeman • 21+ • (406) 552-7362 Gather your friends for a night of trivia fun each Wednesday.

ODIE LEIGH 8pm • Live From the Divide, 627 East Peach Street, Bozeman • $40 • livefromthedivide.com Odie Leigh has continued to transform and evolve as an artist — from what she calls “acoustic, ethereal folk sad girl music” to a harder-edge tunes that flirt with early Aughts pop-punktivism.

OPEN JAMS 8pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com Open jam session

MATHIAS 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Bozemanbased singer-songwriter Mathias has been playing music under the big sky of Montana for over two decades now.

THURSDAY, DEC. 19 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

TEEN MAKER LAB - HOT COCOA 4-5pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Sip on cocoa while creating designer chocolate dunking spoons – delicious instant mugs of cocoa await!

SINGO 6-8pm • Last Best Place Brewery, 605 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman • 21+ Do you like music? Are you a fan of Bingo? Bring a group for Singo and relax for some fun and beer.

FLY-TYING NIGHT 6-9pm • Bozeman Fly Supply, 2621 W College, Bozeman • FREE Bring your vise, tools, materials, and beverages to tie some flies. This is not a class but an invitation for all to get out of the house, get behind the vise, and have fun with fellow tiers.

MEMORIAL LIGHTS LIGHT PARK 6pm • Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org We invite you to a heartfelt celebration to pay tribute to loved ones who are no longer with us during the holiday season. Personalized ornaments with your loved ones’ names are available for purchase to be displayed in the Memorial Light Tunnels.

WWW.TWANG 6pm • Bridger Brewing Pub + Grill, 10751 Hwy 287, Three Forks • no cover • 406-200-9354 • www.bridgerbrewing.com Come enjoy some tunes with us!

FRIDAY, DEC. 20 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www. belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

HOLIDAY SLEIGH RIDES 2-9:30pm • Bodhi Farms, 13624 S. Cottonwood Rd, Bozeman • $50-$150 • All Ages • 406-201-1324 • www.bodhi-farms.com It’s a winter wonderland at Bodhi Farms!

Join us for a memorable sleigh ride around the farm & see the holiday lights. Select an afternoon farm ride or a dinner with live music ride. Advanced reservations required.

HAPPY HOUR OPEN MIC 5-6:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • FREE • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Join us with host Jon Jacobs! With $4 Beer, Wine, Wells and sets, this is the perfect end of the week activity. With a special featured guest every week!

BRENDAN NOLAN 5-8pm • Sacajawea Bar, 5 N Main St, Three Forks • no cover • 21+ • (406) 285-6515 • www.sacajaweahotel. com Local live music while you dine.

BAR IX TRIVIA 6-8pm • Bar IX, 311 E Main St, Bozeman • 21+ • (406) 551-2185 • www.bar-ix.com Undercover geniuses can try their hand at this spot’s trivia questions.

KID’S NIGHT OUT 6-8:30pm • Pinspiration Bozeman • $45 • Ages 5-12 • 406-219-3786 • bozeman.pinspiration.com/calendar/ Need to run errands, have a date night out or just have some time for yourself? Drop the kids and their friends off at Pinspiration Bozeman for crafts, games, and pizza!

CELTIC MUSIC 6:30-8:30pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • no cover Each Friday night Valhalla celebrate Celtic culture with music.

VINTAGE SWING SOCIAL 7-8pm • La Brasserie, 31 S Willson Ave, Bozeman • (406) 414-9693 • www.labrasseriemt.com Join the Downbeat Vintage Swing Society for our weekly vintage swing social, we host an introductory swing lesson, followed by a social to dance.

KGLT DJ NIGHT 7-9pm • Hop Lounge, 93 Rowland Rd, Bozeman • no cover • all ages • (406) 404-1784 Don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in the vibe that is the Hop Lounge and join the Guest DJ for KGLT Alternative Public Radio DJ Night.

BINGO NIGHT 7-10pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • $20 • 18+ • (406) 518-5011 • www.thejumpmt.com It’s a game that we all know and love, so why not bring everyone down for dinner and drinks!

THE GREY DOG BAR KARAOKE 7pm • Grey Dog Bar, 34 N Bozeman Ave, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 404-1014 • www.thegreydogbar. com Karaoke at the Grey Dog Bar ANNIE THE MUSICAL 7:30pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $38, $48, $64 • all ages • (406) 585-5885 • www. theellentheatre.com Presented by Montana TheatreWorks (Mary Poppins, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music), this heartwarming family musical features many hit songs including “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “Little Girls,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” and “Tomorrow”.

BRIAN KASSAY 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Brian Kassay is a live-looping multi-instrumentalist who seamlessly blends guitar, drums, keys, harmonica, xylophone, and violin to create a full and dynamic sound.

LADIES NIGHT 8pm-2am • Club Zebra, 321 E Main St, Bozeman • $10 for guys • 21+ The wonderful Ladies of Bozeman can enjoy 2 free drinks, $3 drinks till 10 pm, and that booty shakin’ music provided by DJ Chedda.

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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GREATER YELLOWSTONE

EVENTS CALENDAR THE DIRTY SHAME Dec 20-21 - Chico Hot Springs

NEW EVENTS ADDED DAILY AT: www.bozemanmagazine.com A CHRISTMAS PRESENTATION OF BARNEY’S BARREL 6:30pm • Emerson’s Crawford Theatre, 111 S. Grand Ave., Bozeman • $10 Adult / $5 Children 12 & Under • (406) 587-9797 • www.theemerson.org Barney’s Barrel is a story of a young boy on the streets of England who finds hope at Christmas.

FRIDAY NIGHT JAZZ 6:30pm • Red Tractor Pizza, 1007 W Main St, Bozeman • no cover • all ages • (406) 359-1999 • www.redtractorpizza.com Live local music while you dine.

STAND-UP W/ GABBY BRYAN 7-8:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $24 online, $3o at the door • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Gabby Bryan is a New York-based stand-up comedian, actress, Emmyaward winning producer, and overall girlie girl.

BOZEMAN POETRY OPEN MIC 7pm • Country Bookshelf, 28 W. Main Street, Bozeman • 18+ • (406)587-0166 • www.countrybookshelf.com This is where you can say what you mean and mean what you say, without small impressionable ears listening.

WOMEN OF PARADISE 7pm • Pine Creek Lodge, 2496 E. River Road, Livingston • $15 ADV, $25 DOS • All Ages • (406) 222-3628 • www.pinecreeklodgemontana.com The women of Paradise features Shelly Belser, Blake Brightman, Mercedes Carroll, and Hannah Jo Lally.

EDIS & THE SIDEKICKS 8-11pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • FREE • All Ages • 4062190400 • thejumpmt. com Edis Kittrell and her band of bluesy ne’erdowells bring their blend of blues, rock and roll, and classic covers for all to love.

STAND-UP W/ GABBY BRYAN 9-10:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $24 online, $3o at the door • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Gabby Bryan is a New York-based stand-up comedian, actress, Emmyaward winning producer, and overall girlie girl.

HOOLIGANS 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Formed in 1990, Hooligans is Bozeman’s longest running roots rock/americana/blues/jam band. Inspired by the improv driven music of the San Francisco scene as well as early folk, blues and great rock’n’roll.

PONDEROSA BAR TRIVIA 9pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt. com Bar trivia with a 1st place cash prize and a 2nd place prize of a Ponderosa gift card!

THE DIRTY SHAME 9pm • Chico Hot Springs, 163 Chico Road, Pray • no cover • 21+ • (406) 333-4933 • www.chicohotsprings.com Outlaw Country Music.

ANNIE THE MUSICAL 7:30pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $38, $48, $64 • all ages • (406) 585-5885 • www. theellentheatre.com Presented by Montana TheatreWorks (Mary Poppins, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music), this heartwarming family musical features many hit songs including “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “Little Girls,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” and “Tomorrow”.

LOST CANYONS 9pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com Indie Rock Website- www.lostcanyonsband.com Instagram- @ lost_canyons

LIVE MUSIC 8-10pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge. com Featuring local and touring music acts.

HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

SATURDAY, DEC. 21

POKER TOURNAMENT noon-6pm • The Cat’s Paw • $80 • 18+ • 406 404 1968 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament.

Prize Pool Guaranteed to be at least $1500. Registration Open at 11:30 - late register by ~1:45. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

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Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

HOLIDAY SLEIGH RIDES 2-9:30pm • Bodhi Farms, 13624 S. Cottonwood Rd, Bozeman • $50-$150 • All Ages • 406-201-1324 • www.bodhi-farms.com It’s a winter wonderland at Bodhi Farms!

Join us for a memorable sleigh ride around the farm & see the holiday lights. Select an afternoon farm ride or a dinner with live music ride. Advanced reservations required.

HOMELESS PERSONS MEMORIAL: THE LONGEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR 5:15-6:15pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Candlelight Vigil for the homeless members of our community who passed away this year.

BILLET TEAM SHOWCASE 7-7:45pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $10 • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com Locally sourced independent Improv Teams show their stuff. From Long-form teams to a musical improv team, there is a little bit of something for everyone!

BAND OF DRIFTERS 7pm • Pine Creek Lodge, 2496 E. River Road, Livingston • $15 ADV, $25 DOS • All Ages • (406) 222-3628 • www. pinecreeklodgemontana.com Band of Drifters plays Modern American Roots Music and they encourage you to dance.

ANNIE THE MUSICAL 7:30pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $38, $48, $64 • all ages • (406) 585-5885 • www. theellentheatre.com Presented by Montana TheatreWorks (Mary Poppins, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music), this heartwarming family musical features many hit songs including “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “Little Girls,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” and “Tomorrow”.

NOTORIOUS BOZ 8-9pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $15 • 18+ • 4062193933 • www. lastbestcomedy.com Long-form improv show that celebrates the city of Bozeman, its history and its incredible citizens. Featuring a guest “Armando” or monologist to share stories from their life.

LIVE MUSIC 8-10pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge. com Featuring local and touring music acts.

TEN FOOT TALL & 80 PROOF 8-11pm • Sacajawea Bar, 5 N Main St, Three Forks • no cover • 21+ • (406) 285-6515 • www. sacajaweahotel.com A night of fine tunes.

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

WESTERN ROOTS COUNTRY DANCING 8pm-12:30am • Bourbon, 515 W Aspen St, Bozeman • no cover • bourbonmt.com Learn to line dance with Western Roots Dancing at 8pm then dance and party the night away!

EMMA & THE LEDGE 7-10pm • Bozeman Hot Springs & Fitness, 81123 Gallatin Road, Four Corners • With Admission • All Ages • 4065866492 • bozemanhotsprings.co Live music while you soak!

Featuring the Bozeman-based rock group “Emma & the Ledge”.

THE WAITING 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Since 2013, the band has thrilled diehard Petty fans and new converts alike throughout the American West.

MONDAY, DEC. 23

THE DIRTY SHAME 9pm • Chico Hot Springs, 163 Chico Road, Pray • no cover • 21+ • (406) 333-4933 • www.chicohotsprings.com Outlaw Country Music.

TICKET SAUCE 9pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com funk, rock, pop, classic rock and blues Website- www.facebook.com/ ticketsauce Instagram- @ticketsaucetrio WHIZ BANG! INTOXICATING COMEDY 9:30-10:30pm • Last Best Comedy, 321 E Main, Alley Entrance off Rouse, Bozeman • $15 • 18+ • 4062193933 • www.lastbestcomedy.com An explosion of intoxicating comedy! Exciting, high-energy, short-form improv that is so funny it’s criminal.

SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER 10pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • $5 • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt.com Cosmic/disco bowling! Late Night Happy Hour drinks, throwback music videos, disco music!

SUNDAY, DEC. 22 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

POKER TOURNAMENT noon-6pm • The Cat’s Paw • $80 • 18+ • 406 404 1968 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament.

Prize Pool Guaranteed to be at least $1500. Registration Open at 11:30 - late register by ~1:45. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

FAMILY MAKER LAB - MELTED WAX ART 2-3:30pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-5707752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Melt crayons to create uniquely colorful decorations.

SEWING CIRCLE - QUILTING SESSIONS 2-4pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Connect with other quilters. Learn how to quilt, work on your projects, or participate in a block of the month program. Some supplies and tools provided.

HOLIDAY SLEIGH RIDES 2-9:30pm • Bodhi Farms, 13624 S. Cottonwood Rd, Bozeman • $50-$150 • All Ages • 406-201-1324 • www.bodhi-farms.com It’s a winter wonderland at Bodhi Farms!

Join us for a memorable sleigh ride around the farm & see the holiday lights. Select an afternoon farm ride or a dinner with live music ride. Advanced reservations required.

CELTIC MUSIC 3-5pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • no cover • all ages Enjoy Celtic music at the Meadery each Sunday afternoon.

ANNIE THE MUSICAL 3pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $38, $48, $64 • all ages • (406) 585-5885 • www. theellentheatre.com Presented by Montana TheatreWorks (Mary Poppins, Fiddler on the Roof, The Sound of Music), this heartwarming family musical features many hit songs including “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” “Little Girls,” “I Don’t Need Anything But You,” and “Tomorrow”.

HANUKKAH LIGHTING CEREMONY 5pm • The Inn at Montage Big Sky • FREE • All Ages Join us each night of Hanukkah to celebrate this joyous festival of lights with a traditional menorah lighting ceremony.

HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

HOLIDAY SLEIGH RIDES 2-9:30pm • Bodhi Farms, 13624 S. Cottonwood Rd, Bozeman • $50-$150 • All Ages • 406-201-1324 • www.bodhi-farms.com It’s a winter wonderland at Bodhi Farms!

Join us for a memorable sleigh ride around the farm & see the holiday lights. Select an afternoon farm ride or a dinner with live music ride. Advanced reservations required.

HANUKKAH LIGHTING CEREMONY 5pm • The Inn at Montage Big Sky • FREE • All Ages Join us each night of Hanukkah to celebrate this joyous festival of lights with a traditional menorah lighting ceremony.

BOARD GAME NIGHT 6-7:45pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • Adults • 406-570-7752 • www. bozemanlibrary.org A chance to test your strategy and teamwork skills with board games and other adults. Join us at the library for some table top fun.

GAME NIGHT LIVE TRIVIA 6-8pm • Wildrye Distilling, 111 East Oak Street Suite 1E, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-2288 • www.wildryedistilling.com With Picture Rounds, Sound Rounds, Word Jumbles and more.. There’s Something for Everyone.

TRIVIA NIGHT 7-9pm • Bacchus Pub, 105 W Main St, Bozeman • 406 404-1996 • www.bacchuspub.com Join us for our weekly trivia night, Game Night Live is a leader in bar trivia and music bingo, putting on awesome games at local venues that everyone can enjoy.

SPORTS TRIVIA 7:30pm • Rockin’ R Bar, 211 E. Main St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 587-9355 • www.rockingrbar.com For those looking for more sporty trivia questions this is it.

TUESDAY, DEC. 24 CORTINA CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER Montage Big Sky, 995 Settlement Trail, Big Sky • All Ages • www.montage.com Cherish tradition and togetherness with a cozy yet refined Christmas Eve dinner featuring classic holiday specials. Reservations recommended.

HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

RHINO TRIVIA 7pm • Rhino Lounge Liquor and Casino, Belgrade • 21+ Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday team up to conquer trivia in Belgrade.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 25 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

CORTINA CHRISTMAS DINNER 5-10pm • Montage Big Sky, 995 Settlement Trail, Big Sky • www.montagehotels.com/bigsky/ Cherish tradition and togetherness with a cozy yet refined Christmas dinner featuring classic holiday specials. Reservations recommended.

HANUKKAH LIGHTING CEREMONY 5pm • The Inn at Montage Big Sky • FREE • All Ages Join us each night of Hanukkah to celebrate this joyous festival of lights with a traditional menorah lighting ceremony.

LIVE MUSIC AT PONDEROSA SOCIAL CLUB 7pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt.com Free live music every Wednesday starting at 7pm.

OPEN JAMS 8pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com Open jam session

THURSDAY, DEC. 26 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

SINGO 6-8pm • Last Best Place Brewery, 605 N. 7th Ave, Bozeman • 21+ Do you like music? Are you a fan of Bingo? Bring a group for Singo and relax for some fun and beer.

FLY-TYING NIGHT 6-9pm • Bozeman Fly Supply, 2621 W College, Bozeman • FREE Bring your vise, tools, materials, and beverages to tie some flies. This is not a class but an invitation for all to get out of the house, get behind the vise, and have fun with fellow tiers.

VINTAGE SWING SOCIAL 7-8pm • La Brasserie, 31 S Willson Ave, Bozeman • (406) 414-9693 • www.labrasseriemt.com Join the Downbeat Vintage Swing Society for our weekly vintage swing social, we host an introductory swing lesson, followed by a social to dance.

MOR REDUCED HOURS 9am-3pm • Museum of the Rockies, 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman • (406) 994-2251 • www. museumoftherockies.org The museum will close at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve. CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER 4-9pm • Fielding’s • $125 per person • All Ages • 4065517701 • fieldingsbozeman.com Celebrate Christmas Eve with us at Fielding’s! Enjoy a festive three course dinner filled with seasonal flavors and holiday cheer. Book your reservation today at fieldingsbozeman.com and let’s make this a night to remember!

HANUKKAH LIGHTING CEREMONY 5pm • The Inn at Montage Big Sky • FREE • All Ages Join us each night of Hanukkah to celebrate this joyous festival of lights with a traditional menorah lighting ceremony.

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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GREATER YELLOWSTONE

EVENTS CALENDAR MARCO D & THE CAJUN MOON BAND Dec 28 - Red Tractor Pizza

ADD YOUR OWN EVENTS AT: www.bozemanmagazine.com KGLT DJ NIGHT 7-9pm • Hop Lounge, 93 Rowland Rd, Bozeman • no cover • all ages • (406) 404-1784 Don’t miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in the vibe that is the Hop Lounge and join the Guest DJ for KGLT Alternative Public Radio DJ Night.

BINGO NIGHT 7-10pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • $20 • 18+ • (406) 518-5011 • www.thejumpmt.com It’s a game that we all know and love, so why not bring everyone down for dinner and drinks!

JESSE THE OCELOT 7-10pm • Bozeman Hot Springs & Fitness, 81123 Gallatin Road, Four Corners • With Admission • All Ages • 4065866492 • bozemanhotsprings.co Live music while you soak!

Featuring the Missoula-based psychedelic artist “Jesse, the Ocelot”.

THE GREY DOG BAR KARAOKE 7pm • Grey Dog Bar, 34 N Bozeman Ave, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 404-1014 • www.thegreydogbar. com Karaoke at the Grey Dog Bar LIVE MUSIC 8-10pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com The Tune Up is host to live music multiple times per week.

HOOLIGANS 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Formed in 1990, Hooligans is Bozeman’s longest running roots rock/americana/blues/jam band. Inspired by the improv driven music of the San Francisco scene as well as early folk, blues and great rock’n’roll.

FRIDAY, DEC. 27 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

HOLIDAY SLEIGH RIDES 2-9:30pm • Bodhi Farms, 13624 S. Cottonwood Rd, Bozeman • $50-$150 • All Ages • 406-201-1324 • www.bodhi-farms.com It’s a winter wonderland at Bodhi Farms!

Join us for a memorable sleigh ride around the farm & see the holiday lights. Select an afternoon farm ride or a dinner with live music ride. Advanced reservations required.

TOM SUSANJ 5-8pm • Sacajawea Bar, 5 N Main St, Three Forks • no cover • 21+ • (406) 285-6515 • www.sacajaweahotel.com Local live music while you dine.

BAR IX TRIVIA 6-8pm • Bar IX, 311 E Main St, Bozeman • 21+ • (406) 551-2185 • www.bar-ix.com Undercover geniuses can try their hand at this spot’s trivia questions.

CELTIC MUSIC 6:30-8:30pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • no cover Each Friday night Valhalla celebrate Celtic culture with music.

“GOODRICH” STARRING MICHAEL KEATON 7-9pm • The Ellen Theatre, 17 W. Main St., Bozeman • $9.75-$11.75 (plus fees) • Rated R • 406-585-5885 • www.bozemanfilmsociety.org Andy Goodrich’s life is upended when his wife enters a rehab program, leaving him on his own with their young kids. Goodrich leans on Grace (Mila Kunis), his daughter from his first marriage, as he ultimately evolves into the father she never had.

BROADWAY’S NEXT HIT MUSICAL 7:30pm • Warren Miller Performing Arts Center, 45465 Gallatin Road, Big Sky • $23-33 • 406-995-6345 • www.warrenmillerpac.org An award-winning, fully improvised musical comedy experience.

BLAKE BRIGHTMAN BAND 9pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar. com Country Western meets Electric Blues Website- blakebrightman.com

SATURDAY, DEC. 28 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

POKER TOURNAMENT noon-6pm • The Cat’s Paw • $80 • 18+ • 406 404 1968 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament.

Prize Pool Guaranteed to be at least $1500. Registration Open at 11:30 - late register by ~1:45. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

HOLIDAY SLEIGH RIDES 2-9:30pm • Bodhi Farms, 13624 S. Cottonwood Rd, Bozeman • $50-$150 • All Ages • 406-201-1324 • www.bodhi-farms.com It’s a winter wonderland at Bodhi Farms!

Join us for a memorable sleigh ride around the farm & see the holiday lights. Select an afternoon farm ride or a dinner with live music ride. Advanced reservations required.

LIVE MUSIC 8-10pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Featuring local and touring music acts.

MARCO D & THE CAJUN MOON BAND 6-8pm • Red Tractor Pizza, 1007 W Main St, Bozeman • FREE • All Ages • 4065815760 • www.redtractorpizza.com JJ Cale cover band with some deep soulful Delta blues for your sweet soul.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN PEARLS 8-11pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • FREE • All Ages • 4062190400 • thejumpmt.com The Rocky Mountain Pearls are a wonderfully charming group of Montana folk, led by the fab Lindsey Pearl! They bring the fire with their own unique brand of Country music.

THE GLITCH MOB 7-11pm • The ELM • $32 - $55 (Adv.) $35 (DOS) • All Ages • 4068304640 • logjampresents.com Logjam Presents is pleased to welcome The Glitch Mob for a live in concert performance.

PONDEROSA BAR TRIVIA 9pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt. com Bar trivia with a 1st place cash prize and a 2nd place prize of a Ponderosa gift card!

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ROADRUNNER 9pm • Chico Hot Springs, 163 Chico Road, Pray • no cover • 21+ • (406) 333-4933 • www.chicohotsprings.com Get ready to dance, Roadrunner is a super fun band full of good vibes and great energy.

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

LIVE MUSIC 8-10pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Featuring local and touring music acts.

WESTERN ROOTS COUNTRY DANCING 8pm-12:30am • Bourbon, 515 W Aspen St, Bozeman • no cover • bourbonmt.com Learn to line dance with Western Roots Dancing at 8pm then dance and party the night away!

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

SUNRISE KARAOKE 9pm • Sacajawea Bar, 5 N Main St, Three Forks • no cover • 21+ • (406) 285-6515 • www.sacajaweahotel. com Come out and sing!

HOLDING FOR HUX 9-11pm • Tune Up Bar, 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman • no cover • (406) 551-7702 • tuneupbarandlounge.com Holding For Hux is a Bozeman founded rock trio featuring Paul Bennet, Kelly Hagerman, and Silas Stewart.

ROADRUNNER 9pm • Chico Hot Springs, 163 Chico Road, Pray • no cover • 21+ • (406) 333-4933 • www.chicohotsprings.com Get ready to dance, Roadrunner is a super fun band full of good vibes and great energy.

MEYER’D DOWN DUO 9pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com Acoustic Pop & Folk Duo SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER 10pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • $5 • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt.com Cosmic/disco bowling! Late Night Happy Hour drinks, throwback music videos, disco music!

SUNDAY, DEC. 29 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

POKER TOURNAMENT noon-6pm • The Cat’s Paw • $80 • 18+ • 406 404 1968 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament.

Prize Pool Guaranteed to be at least $1500. Registration Open at 11:30 - late register by ~1:45. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

GAME NIGHT LIVE TRIVIA 6-8pm • Wildrye Distilling, 111 East Oak Street Suite 1E, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-2288 • www.wildryedistilling.com With Picture Rounds, Sound Rounds, Word Jumbles and more.. There’s Something for Everyone.

TRIVIA NIGHT 7-9pm • Bacchus Pub, 105 W Main St, Bozeman • 406 404-1996 • www.bacchuspub.com Join us for our weekly trivia night, Game Night Live is a leader in bar trivia and music bingo, putting on awesome games at local venues that everyone can enjoy.

LIVE AT MONTAGE 7-10pm • Montage Big Sky, 995 Settlement Trail, Big Sky • FREE • All Ages • www.montage.com Enjoy live music and libations in Montage Big Sky’s lively lobby lounge Alpenglow, while cozied up by the fire.

DEAD SKY GRATEFUL NYE RUN 7-11pm • The ELM • $20 - $40 ADV, $25 DOS • All Ages • 4068304640 • logjampresents.com Logjam Presents is pleased to welcome Dead Sky for their Grateful NYE Run as they return to the stage after the loss of their keyboard player Joe Kirchner. Come celebrate and dance in his honor.

SPORTS TRIVIA 7:30pm • Rockin’ R Bar, 211 E. Main St, Bozeman • no cover • 21+ • (406) 587-9355 • www.rockingrbar.com For those looking for more sporty trivia questions this is it.

TUESDAY, DEC. 31 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

CRAFTERNOONS 1-5pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Create something fun and develop new skills.

NEW YEARS EVE FIGHT NIGHT 5pm • The Armory Music Hall • $60+ • Ring in the New Year with a knockout celebration! Join us for our New Year’s Eve Fight Night—an unforgettable evening of thrilling boxing matches from 6-10 PM, followed by a DJ spinning tracks from 10 PM-midnight.

HOLIDAY SLEIGH RIDES 2-9:30pm • Bodhi Farms, 13624 S. Cottonwood Rd, Bozeman • $50-$150 • All Ages • 406-201-1324 • www.bodhi-farms.com It’s a winter wonderland at Bodhi Farms!

Join us for a memorable sleigh ride around the farm & see the holiday lights. Select an afternoon farm ride or a dinner with live music ride. Advanced reservations required.

UNCLE LUCIUS FOR A LIVE NEW YEARS EVE CONCERT 7pm • The ELM • $27-$50 (Adv.) $30 (DOS) • All Ages • 4068304640 • logjampresents.com Logjam Presents is pleased to welcome Uncle Lucius for a live New Years Eve concert , tickets go on sale Wednesday, October 2 at 9:00AM and will be available to purchase in person at Logjam Presents Box Office.

CELTIC MUSIC 3-5pm • Valhalla Meadery, 875 Bridger Drive Unit B, Bozeman • no cover • all ages Enjoy Celtic music at the Meadery each Sunday afternoon.

LIVE AT MONTAGE 7-10pm • Montage Big Sky, 995 Settlement Trail, Big Sky • FREE • All Ages • www.montage.com Enjoy live music and libations in Montage Big Sky’s lively lobby lounge Alpenglow, while cozied up by the fire.

SONGWRITER’S SHOWCASE 7-10pm • Bozeman Hot Springs & Fitness, 81123 Gallatin Road, Four Corners • With Admission • All Ages • 4065866492 • bozemanhotsprings.co We’re teaming up with the Yellowstone Women’s Music Collective to bring you a night of the Gallatin Valley’s best female singer-songwriters.

Featuring Maren Stubenvoll, Edis Kittrell, Ella Rae Cole, and Lena Marie Schiffer.

POKER TOURNAMENT 7-11pm • The Golden Zebra • $40 • 18+ • 4062192436 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament. $200 Added. Great way to learn the game! Registration Open at 6:30 - late register by ~7:30. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

LIVE AT MONTAGE 7-10pm • Montage Big Sky, 995 Settlement Trail, Big Sky • FREE • All Ages • www.montage.com Enjoy live music and libations in Montage Big Sky’s lively lobby lounge Alpenglow, while cozied up by the fire.

MONDAY, DEC. 30 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

BOARD GAME NIGHT 6-7:45pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • Adults • 406-570-7752 • www. bozemanlibrary.org A chance to test your strategy and teamwork skills with board games and other adults. Join us at the library for some table top fun.

WILLY ON THE WIRE 9pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com classic rock/blues cover band Instagram- @WillyOnTheWire

WEDNESDAY, JAN. 1 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

LIVE MUSIC AT PONDEROSA SOCIAL CLUB 7pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt.com Free live music every Wednesday starting at 7pm.

OPEN JAMS 8pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com Open jam session

THURSDAY, JAN. 2 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

THE GREY DOG BAR KARAOKE 7pm • Grey Dog Bar, 34 N Bozeman Ave, Bozeman • FREE • (406) 404-1014 • www.thegreydogbar. com Karaoke at the Grey Dog Bar

FRIDAY, JAN. 3 HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

FRIDAY NIGHT JAZZ 6:30pm • Red Tractor Pizza, 1007 W Main St, Bozeman • no cover • all ages • (406) 359-1999 • www.redtractorpizza.com Live local music while you dine.

PONDEROSA BAR TRIVIA 9pm • Ponderosa Social Club, 515 W. Aspen, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • (406) 577-8650 • ponderosamt. com Bar trivia with a 1st place cash prize and a 2nd place prize of a Ponderosa gift card!

THE DIRTY SHAME 9pm • The Murray Bar, 201 W Park St, Livingston • FREE • 21+ • (406) 222-6433 • www.themurraybar.com Outlaw Country Website- www.thedirtyshame.com Instagram- @ brandonhaleandthedirtyshame

SATURDAY, JAN. 4

THE DEAD & DOWN AND DESPERATE ELECTRIC FOR A NYE WESTERN DISCO 8pm • The Rialto • $20 (Adv.) $25 (DOS) • All Ages • 4068304640 • logjampresents.com Logjam Presents is pleased to welcome The Dead & Down and Desperate Electric for a NYE Western Disco.

HOLIDAY LIGHT PARK Belgrade Senior Center, 92 E Cameron Ave, Belgrade • FREE • All Ages • (406) 388-4711 • www.belgreatmt.org/lightpark The Light Park will mesmerize you with its sparkling lights, larger-than-life holiday displays that are just perfect for photo ops!

NYE PARTY W/ FOOLS GOLD! 9pm • The Jump, 75770 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway • FREE • All Ages • 4062190400 • thejumpmt.com We want you to put on your sparkliest sparkles and your duddiest duds for this once a year “Event-spectacular” NYE party!

POKER TOURNAMENT noon-6pm • The Cat’s Paw • $80 • 18+ • 406 404 1968 • seatopen.com Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament.

Prize Pool Guaranteed to be at least $1500. Registration Open at 11:30 - late register by ~1:45. Food & Drinks served by our Friendly Staff.

DANIEL KOSEL & MADRONA ROAD 9pm • Sacajawea Bar, 5 N Main St, Three Forks • no cover • 21+ • (406) 285-6515 • www. sacajaweahotel.com Ring in the new year with music and drinks!

TEEN ANIME ALLIANCE - MUSIC-THEMED ANIME 2-3pm • Bozeman Public Library, 626 East Main Street, Bozeman • FREE • 406-570-7752 • www.bozemanlibrary.org Meet up with fellow fans for a casual monthly hangout. Watch anime, taste-test weird

FORREAL FORREAL W/ HOT MILK AND THE FLOWER PALLETS & PETROBIKE 9pm • The Haufbrau, 22 S 8th Ave, Bozeman • FREE • 21+ • 4068393908 • www.facebook.com Jamming it up usual style for New Year’s Eve. Don’t miss this rowdy event featuring the Psych rockers!!

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.

NEW EVENTS ADDED DAILY AT: www.bozemanmagazine.com

Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

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FRUITION December 22 - Big Sky Music in the Mountains

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Bozeman Magazine December 2024 • www.bozemanmagazine.com

All listings are subject to change. Check ahead for full details.