Spring is a special time in Missoula, Montana. Arriving in mid-March and lingering through June, spring in Missoula arrives with an explosion of color: stunning shades of green and pops of vibrant wildflowers paint every hillside while the spring sunshine casts gorgeous blues and whites across the sky. Spring time is the perfect chance to recreate in Missoula, with gorgeous scenery and moderate temperatures. As the weather warms, Missoula’s events calendar heats up, too, with brewfests, parades, markets and so much more. Here are some of our favorite spring traditions to enjoy during this special season in Missoula.
Irish settlers first arrived in Missoula in the 19th century, and each year the rich history of Irish culture is celebrated at the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, including the popular St. Patrick’s Day Parade. In addition to the parade, events include a traditional Irish-Catholic mass, free carousel rides at A Carousel for Missoula, an Irish Hurling tournament, whisky tastings and a banquet, all hosted by the Friends of Irish Studies in the West. This classic Missoula tradition kicks off springtime each year with lots of fun and festive events (and lots of green, of course).
As the weather warms up in the spring, local breweries and eateries shift their seasonal menus and open the patios back, offering locals and visitors the perfect chance to savor plenty of al fresco dining options or explore spring-themed menus. Whether you are kicking back with a fresh pint or enjoying fine dining on a gorgeous patio, springtime is the perfect time to get some sunshine and enjoy Missoula’s impressive food scene.
One of the most stunning and iconic sights of springtime in Montana is the wildflowers that dot the hillsides and mountains, bringing bursts of color to our already vibrant mountain town. From the yellows of balsamroot, the purples of lupine and the reds of paintbrush (to name a few), hiking amongst the wildflowers is one of our most treasured activities in spring.
Every May, visitors and locals alike gather at Caras Park to celebrate the culture of craft at the Garden City Brewfest, Missoula’s original brewfest. Sip, sample and savor 50 local and regional beers, seltzers and ciders in the Heart of Missoula alongside a wine bar, food vendors, music and more.
May brings the return of the iconic, nationally renowned farmers markets in Missoula—cause for celebration. Every Saturday, downtown Missoula hustles and bustles with an energy fueled by our town’s love for all things local. Fresh produce, meats, eggs, cheeses, fresh-baked goods, honey, soaps and lotions, preserves and more are just some of the things for sale by various vendors at not one, but two farmers markets. Add in the People’s Market, where you can browse and support local artisans, along with food trucks lining the streets and live music, and you have the perfect Missoula spring day.
Missoula is a college town, and there is something incredibly special about watching another group of Griz grads close their chapters at the University of Montana and enter the next phase of life at the UM’s spring commencement. Each May, families and friends of graduates flock to Missoula to celebrate the accomplishments of our newest alumni. It is a fun weekend with lots of events, energy and celebrations.
Warmer weather brings the return of outdoor concert season in Missoula–with multiple amphitheaters hosting headlining acts, weekly events at Caras Park including Downtown ToNight, Out To Lunch and the weekly farmers markets, and local arts performing at patios at restaurants and breweries. There’s no shortage of opportunities to take in live music under Montana’s big sky.
Photo credit: Josh Taira
Each April, the Roxy Theater plays host to this long-running festival which features films centered on wildlife and conservation. The International Wildlife Film Festival’s documentaries and shorts are sure to inspire conservation ethics and celebrate the diverse wildlife on our planet. In addition, the International Wildlife Film Festival also includes a WildWalk–dress up as your favorite flora or fauna and walk, hop or crawl down Higgins Ave. at this annual beloved event.
Spring is a fantastic time to fly-fish in Missoula, particularly with the pre-runoff conditions of March and April. The Bitterroot River, Blackfoot River and Clark Fork River all offer excellent fishing for Skwalas, Blue Winged Olives, March Browns and Mother's Day Caddis, though the colder water temperatures may still make trout a bit sluggish. New to fly-fishing and need some assistance? Consider hiring a guide through one of our many fly shops and try your luck at aMontana staple and beloved recreational activity.
