Category: Community

12th Annual Auction for the Arts

The Arts Council of Big Sky wrapped up its 12th Annual Auction for the Arts on February 2 with an impressive show of support from the Big Sky community. This year’s auction was a tremendous success, raising a total of $238,000 through the sale of 85 art pieces contributed by 69 artists, who generously shared their proceeds with the Arts Council. The event also featured the Arts for All Paddle Call, which garnered $58,000 in donation pledges.

Thanks to this incredible support, the event’s net proceeds amount to $185,000, which will directly benefit arts programming in Big Sky, including the “Contribute What You Can” art classes accessible to all residents.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated volunteers, talented artists, and hardworking staff who made this event possible. We would also like to acknowledge and thank our event sponsors, whose generous support was instrumental in the success of the auction.

  • Lone Mountain Land Company
  • Big Sky Real Estate Company
  • Montage Big Sky
  • JP Morgan Private Banking
  • Blue Ribbon Builders
  • Bozeman Spirits Distillery
  • Big Sky Journal
  • Western Art and Architecture
  • Gina Dee and Provincial Store Fixtures
  • Five Star AV
  • Vision West Contemporary
  • Gallery Wild
  • Maya Frodeman Gallery

Thank you all for your support of the arts in Big Sky!

Pictures by Dave Pecunies – Instagram: @DavePecunies

2024 Big Sky Skijoring Best in the West Showdown

The 6th Annual Best In The West Skijoring Competition: Big Sky, MT To Host The Best Skijoring Teams In North America.

Big Sky, MT: The Big Sky Skijoring Association (BSSJ) will host their 6th annual Best In The West Showdown Presented By Delzer Diversified, Lone Mountain Land Company, Lone Mountain Ranch, & RentBiz in Big Sky, Montana on February 3-4, 2024.

The team at Big Sky Skijoring has been turning the skijoring world upside down. Now in its 6th year, The Best In The West Showdown has a reputation for pushing the envelope of competitive skijoring by pairing cutting edge course design, showmanship and elements of mountain culture never seen before. The results speak for themselves.

Last year’s event attracted over 150 of the best teams in North America with 4000 spectators. The highlight of the Showdown culminated with the Keith Sayers FMX team performing the world’s first ever snowmobile backflip over a live skijoring race. In their final run in the open division the team of Colin Cook (skier), Richard Webber III (rider) and Serge To Paradise (horse) put together a smooth clean run through the berms, jumps and flames just in time for pro freestyle snowmobiler and Winter X Games champion Willie Elam to hit the throttle and lay out a huge backflip over the team as they dashed through the finish line. The crowd went wild, as did the internet with millions of views as the spectacular moment went viral.

“When our team here at Wrangler saw that video, we had to learn more about this event,” says Clay Hanback (Sr. Manager of Western Content Marketing & Partnerships, Wrangler). “Our brand is grounded in the spirit of people who work hard, have fun, and showcase courageous individuality. After seeing the coverage of The Showdown, meeting with their team, and hearing their vision for the future, we clearly found that spirit. We are very excited to be part of the event this year and can’t wait to get out to Big Sky.”

The culture of this event is something special, said Erik Morrison, one of the producers of Big Sky Skijoring. “It’s the inclusivity of it all. Big Sky Skijoring is carrying on the tradition of skijoring while actively expanding the sport to appeal to new competitors and audiences across all generations. You have cowboys and cowgirls, ski racers, freeride competitors, die hard dirtbag skiers/riders, celebrities, families, and everyone in between on the edge of their seats enjoying the show together. Everyone is part of the culture of the event, and everyone is a VIP. The best seats in the house are anywhere with a great view of the course to cheer on the competitors, a cozy fire pit and enjoying some food and drinks with the colorful company. That’s the Big Sky vibe our team is working to cultivate with The Showdown.”

This year’s event will feature two action packed days of racing.  A total of 154 skijoring teams will leave it all on the course for their chance at a piece of the $15,000 prize purse. The Keith Sayers FMX team will be back again to perform their big air exposition during intermissions. This year’s lineup includes X Games athlete and Snowmobile Freestyle Gold winner Brett Turcotte. There will be an opportunity for the public to meet and greet with many of the skijoring and FMX athletes at the vendor village. Similar to last year, the village will offer ticket holders numerous options for local food, beverage, retail, and a comfortable atmosphere overlooking the race.

“This Big Sky venue and the community that is helping pull it all together is something special.” says Justa Adams (Executive Director of BSSJ). ”Our community partners don’t just help sponsor the event. They roll up their sleeves, dig in and build it! Thanks to the teamwork of Delzer Diversified, RentBiz and Lone Mountain Land Co. working to stockpile snow, we are able to build a quality course in the face of a lean start to the winter season. I’m really proud of our team and how things are coming together for The Showdown. I can’t wait to see what our course designers Patrick McVey (Course Groomer and General Manager at Lone Mountain Ranch) and Jeremy Ueland (Program Director of the Big Sky Ski Education Foundation) come up with this year.”

For ticket info and a complete itinerary of the weekend’s events please visit bigskyskijoring.com.

2023 Big Sky Christmas Stroll

BIG SKY CHRISTMAS STROLL: DEC. 8-10TH

View the full 2023 Christmas Stroll Guide by clicking HERE

Big Sky celebrates 26 years of community, giving and the holiday spirit.

Big Sky, MT: The streets of Big Sky will come alive during the 26th Annual Big Sky Christmas Stroll on December 8-10th. This community wide holiday celebration unites Big Sky Town Center, Meadow Village Center, Big Sky Resort, and our neighbors for a weekend of family fun and festivities.

The Stroll began in the Meadow Village Center in the winter of 1997 says Grant Jardine, Meadow Village Community Manager, and Chief of Alpine Property Management’s HOA Division. Our intimate gathering of locals and visitors alike came to celebrate the holidays and the beginning of the ski season. That first Christmas Stroll was very special for this community and that spirit lives on. It has grown with our community. The evening is jubilant with that holiday spirit. You can feel it in the air.

Now, twenty six years later the local tradition continues to be passed down to newcomers and the next generation of strollers. The community will gather at Meadow Village Center on Friday, December 8th at 5:30 p.m. for Santa’s arrival on a team of horses at Blue Ribbon Builders, the holiday tree lighting and photos with Santa at American Bank. The air will be filled with the sound of music as The Dickens Carolers and Lone Peak A Capella directed by John Zirkle will sing classic holiday songs as strollers enjoy the many open houses and offerings by Meadow Village merchants. Free sleigh rides by Lone Mountain Ranch will take guests on an east side meadow tour, over to the Chapel and down to the new Big Sky Resort Nordic Center. For the more adventurous strollers illuminated nordic skiing and winter use trails along the golf course will be available (weather dependent*), connecting Meadow Village to Big Sky Town Center.

The Stroll really is something special says Erik Morrison, Big Sky Town Center Marketing & Events Manager. The event has matured and expanded over the years, yet still maintains its classic communal holiday vibe. Shop owners open their doors and invite strollers in to share their hospitality and holiday cheer. Children and their families line up for glimpses of Santa Claus and the chance to share their Christmas list. Luminaries line streets and trails connecting neighborhoods around our mountain village and guide strollers and skiers to their next destination. Children and adults skate and enjoy games/programs on the ice, while the crowd gathers and warms themselves around the bonfire in anticipation for the fireworks to come. The scene is reminiscent of holidays past. An eclectic mix of cozy small mountain town holiday traditions and Rockefeller Center circa 1950. Hard to capture yet instantly felt. The community seems to love it!

Saturday, December 9th the Stroll celebration continues in Big Sky Town Center. Join our neighbors at Beehive Basin Brewery for their annual Stroll Pre Party from 3-5 p.m. Along with Big Sky’s best craft beer, strollers can enjoy their new full bar, live music, and s’mores by the fire. From there guests may continue their stroll on foot or wagon ride and enjoy the many holiday activities downtown. Stop in The Wilson Hotel for the 2nd Annual Big Sky Winter Market Presented By Bozeman Health. Enjoy a gathering of local artisans, crafters, cottage goods, and other mountain made businesses. BASE will also be hosting Santa’s Holiday Lounge presented by First Security Bank. Bring the family to come and meet Santa himself. After enjoying the many open houses and activities strollers are invited to gather outside and look to the eastern skies for a fireworks display at 8 p.m.

The Stroll is not the only thing we are celebrating. Ski season has just begun with currently 8 runs and 195 skiable acres open at Big Sky Resort. Take the weekend to make some lift serviced laps and get your ski legs back under you. Come ski, stroll and stay with us this weekend with special offers from our lodging partners. Save on Big Sky Resort lift tickets and lodging with their latest packages and promotions. Stay and stroll in the heart of Town Center that weekend with the special “Local’s Rate” by The Wilson Hotel. Call (406) 995-9000 and mention it when booking with concierge for the best deal on rooms downtown. Enjoy a classic Big Sky Christmas Stroll experience like no other at the historic Lone Mountain Ranch. Save 25% off when booking their Bed and Breakfast package December 7th – 12th.

It’s easy to see Big Sky is the place to be this holiday season. Come join the fun. For more information about the 26th Annual Big Sky Christmas Stroll and the online Stroll Guide (coming soon) visit: visitbigsky.com/christmas-stroll.

Event Recap: 5th Annual Friendsgiving

5th Annual Friendsgiving – 11/21/2023.

Location: The Wilson Hotel in Big Sky, MT

The ever-changing tapestry of seasons in Big Sky unveils a series of unique events that celebrate our town’s abundant offerings. As winter descends upon us, the mountains brace for skiers, the Town Center illuminates, and The Wilson Hotel beckons a multitude for its annual Friendsgiving dinner.

In its 5th year, the collaboration between The Wilson and Sweet Buns Catering anticipated their largest turnout yet, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The line for the complimentary Thanksgiving feast snaked through the lobby, drawing local employees who eagerly awaited the sumptuous spread meticulously prepared for the occasion. What initially began as a gesture to feed those working on Thanksgiving has blossomed into something far more profound—it’s become a welcoming embrace for new town members, an opportunity to share the holiday spirit with fresh faces, and a vibrant initiation into our winter festivities, encapsulating the warm hospitality that defines our community. Friendsgiving has organically evolved into a winter tradition, marking the inauguration of our Town Center season in many ways.

A heartfelt appreciation extends to all the volunteers and contributors who generously supported the Big Sky Food Bank with their donations. Gratitude is also owed to The Wilson Hotel, Sweet Buns Catering, Block 3, and Tips Up for their exceptional hosting and preparations that made this event an unforgettable success!

New Business Spotlight: Bluebird

Welcome to Town Center: Bluebird

Big Sky Town Center is excited to introduce Bluebird, the latest addition to Town Center Avenue!

Bluebird is a boutique where adventure meets the everyday. Our premium selection of men’s and women’s lifestyle and outdoor attire has you covered whether you’re headed to the tram or the lodge. You’ll find us nestled in the heart of Big Sky, conveniently located at 99 Town Center Avenue. Let us assist you in gearing up for your most stylish season yet.

Hours: 10:00 am – 7:00 pm daily

Grand Opening: November 21 – Join us in celebrating from 4:00pm – 7:00pm

Website: https://bluebird-bigsky.com

Instagram: @bluebird.bigsky

Stay tuned for updates on other new businesses soon to arrive at Town Center!

2023 Big Sky Collaborative Coat Drive

Real estate agencies around Big sky are coming together for their annual Collaborative Coat Drive to benefit our seasonal workforce and families and individuals in need. In collaboration with Big Sky Town Center, the Big Sky Rotary, Persnickety Cleaners, and the Big Sky Food Bank coats will be collected through December 8 for distribution on December 13 at River Rock Lodge. Collection bins can be found at the following real estate agencies, as well as, the Big Sky Post Office, First Security Bank, and American Bank:

The Agency

Berkshire Hathaway

The Big Sky Real Estate Company

Engel & Volkers

ERA Landmark

PureWest Christie’s

Sotheby’s

Special thanks to Persnickety Cleaners for donating the cleaning services for this effort.

New Business Spotlight: Surefoot

Welcome to Town Center: Surefoot!

Big Sky Town Center is excited to introduce Surefoot, the latest addition to Town Center Avenue! Surefoot opened its doors a few months ago and is fully equipped to enhance your mountain experience. If you’re seeking a more comfortable day on the slopes, make sure to pay them a visit.

Skiers who’ve experienced Surefoot Ski Boots will attest to the unmatched fit, comfort, and performance that these boots provide. This is why Surefoot confidently guarantees your complete satisfaction. From our renowned Surefoot Insoles to our cutting-edge liners and ski boot shells tailored for different skill levels, Surefoot offers you ski boots that excel in comfort, performance, and style. Our custom liners offer tangible benefits that will elevate your skiing to new levels.

Location: 47 Town Center Avenue (Next to Pinky G’s)

Operating Hours: 10am – 5pm Daily

Stay tuned for updates on other new businesses soon to arrive at Town Center!

7th Annual Haunted Peaks Halloween Festival

Looking for a scary good time this Halloween? Join us in Big Sky, Montana October 27-29 for the 7th Annual Haunted Peaks Halloween Festival. This three-day all ages Halloween celebration in the Big Sky Town Center has become a Fall favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. Come enjoy a weekend filled with traditional holiday activities, scary movies, live music, costume contests and races, a haunted house, and great Fall fun. Check below for the latest list of festival activities (updated 10/24*).

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2023 Schedule of Events

Friday, October 27th

Pumpkin Painting Party

Bring your pumpkin or purchase one for $5. Decorating supplies are FREE.

Come decorate your pumpkin at The Wilson Hotel Lobby Bar from 4-7 p.m. RSVP with the concierge at (406) 589-5806.

Submit your design to the annual Pumpkin King & Queen Carving Competition held at Fire Pit Park on Sunday, October 29th from 3-4 p.m.

Skull & Roses Ball

710 Ashbury brings their high-energy Grateful Dead tribute band to Big Sky as part of the Haunted Peaks Halloween weekend! The Ball will include a costume competition with prizes awarded to dedicated costume categories. Themed drinks, photo opportunities, and a whole lot of Grateful Dead will be adorning the halls of the Big Sky Waypoint.

Doors open at 8 p.m. and the show starts at 9 p.m. Get your tickets: https://bit.ly/3LVQRX3.

Haunted Peaks Window Display Competition Day 1

Stroll through downtown and admire the spooky creativity of local merchants and artists as they decorate their stores for our annual windows and displays competition. Vote for your favorites by scanning the QR code at participating businesses. Note: they may be located on the window display or inside at the register.

Cast your vote by 10 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29. Winners will be announced Halloween day on Town Center’s Instagram and Facebook.

Saturday, October 28th

Haunted House

Join us for the Haunted House Presented By Lone Mountain Land Co. & The Big Sky Real Estate Co. Spooky adventures await those brave enough to enter. See poltergeists, vampires, werewolves, and more. All proceeds go towards the good work of the Big Sky Discovery Academy.

Open 2 – 6 p.m. at the River Rock Lodge located at 88 Big Pine Dr, Big Sky, MT 59716.

Haunted Run 5K & Kids Fun Run

Rock your favorite costume and brave 5k of terror and Halloween-themed challenges. Bring your kiddo(s) down to participate in the Kids Fun Run & Costume Parade! Events are hosted by Moving Mountains in support of Morningstar Learning Center and the Big Sky Discovery Academy.

5K race at 1 p.m. and Kids Fun Run & Parade at 2:30 p.m.

Please contact the race director at megan@movingmountainsmt.com for information and registration.

Mini Monster Mash

Spooky family-friendly Halloween party at The Big Sky Waypoint from 5 – 7 p.m. Enjoy a kids costume contest, Charlie Brown Halloween movie, candy, specials, and more.

Halloween Bash With DJ Chedda

When it comes to Halloween Big Sky knows how to party. DJ Chedda will be spinning the best Top 40, Dance, and Hip Hop beats to shake your BOOOOOty to. Enjoy the black light dance party, costume contest for great prizes, Halloween cocktail specials, and more.

Join us at Tips Up on Saturday, October 28th. Admission is FREE (21+). Show from 9 p.m – 1 a.m.

Haunted Peaks Window Display Competition Day 2

Stroll through downtown and admire the spooky creativity of local merchants and artists as they decorate their stores for our annual windows and displays competition. Vote for your favorites by scanning the QR code at participating businesses. Note: they may be located on the window display or inside at the register.

Cast your vote by 10 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29. Winners will be announced Halloween day on Town Center’s Instagram and Facebook.

Sunday, October 29th

Yappy Hour Presented By The Rocks

Costume contest and happy hour for people and pets. Win prizes from our panel of pet-friendly celebrity judges, enjoy drink specials, treats, and help raise funds and awareness for RUFF (a local nonprofit providing vital veterinary care to the underserved members of the Big Sky community).

2 – 4 p.m. at Fire Pit Park across from The Rocks

Pumpkin King & Queen Carving Competition

Join us for the 2023 Pumpkin King & Queen Carving Competition on Sunday, October 29th. Bring your best pumpkin and jack-o-lantern designs (must be pre carved/decorated*) to show off and enter for a chance to win.

3-4 p.m. at Fire Pit Park

Haunted Peaks Window Display Competition Day 3

Stroll through downtown and admire the spooky creativity of local merchants and artists as they decorate their stores for our annual windows and displays competition. Vote for your favorites by scanning the QR code at participating businesses. Note: they may be located on the window display or inside at the register.

Cast your vote by 10 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29. Winners will be announced Halloween day on Town Center’s Instagram and Facebook.

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