Let’s face it. When it comes to the Fourth of July, there’s no place better to be than in Montana. We have the best lakes, beer, people ... the list goes on. The beauty of Montana’s outdoors set up the perfect backdrop to watch fireworks from wherever you are. Whatever town you are celebrating in, the people are happy and friendly to all. It’s safe to say that it’s impossible not to have a good time during Montana summers, but there’s something entirely more enchanting about the Fourth of July here. While many of us usually have a tradition in place, whether that’s a day spent up at the lake or in our backyards surrounded by friends and family, we’ve developed a guide guaranteed to help make this patriotic holiday the best yet for all who plan to celebrate in Big Sky Country.

Stock Up on Your Favorite Montana Beer

With heavy hitters coming out of Missoula, Bozeman, Helena and more, there is no shortage of good Montana beer to drink. From Kettlehouse to Lewis & Clark to Bozone, fill up a few growlers or stock up on six-packs. Regardless of your preference, you are bound to enjoy the day with a few cold ones brewed in Montana. Just don’t forget your koozie!

Take Advantage of Your Favorite Lake or River Activity

It’s July in Montana...it’s going to be hot. Pack up the cooler, bring your paddleboard, tube, or load up your boat, and head to the nearest body of water. From Flathead Lake to the Missouri River, there are many opportunities to beat the heat and relax on the water. For those with boats on Flathead Lake, the Sand Bar near Bigfork is a popular spot to drop anchor and celebrate with fellow boat-goers. For those lacking a boat, don’t fret! Stay cool while floating on your favorite river. Make it even more stress-free and look into using shuttle services in cities like Missoula and Bozeman - such as Madison River Tubing Shuttle or Montana Adventure Shuttle - to get to and from the river.

Yard Games are a Must

If you’re slinging burgers and dogs on a grill this holiday, can you really have a barbeque without some kind of entertainment among friends? No matter what you call it - cornhole vs bags, ladder golf vs ladder toss, beersbee vs frisbeer - barbeques just aren’t complete without yard games. In Montana, you’d be hard pressed to not know somebody who owns at least one game. Better yet, get crafty and make your own! Have extra wood and good tools? Make boards for cornhole. PVC pipe and duct tape? Stands for beersbee. For those of us not-so-crafty, a quick trip to the store will suffice. Whatever your preferred yard game is, make sure to break it out for the Fourth.

Watch the Fireworks

Montanans are fortunate to live in such a beautifully diverse state. No matter the backdrop - from mountains and lakes to rivers and plains - the fireworks stand out brightly in Montana. Check out these events near you for the best views and family-friendly events.

Festival of the Fourth
Where: Bozeman, MT
Location: Gallatin Fairgrounds

Laurel’s Fourth of July Celebration
Where: Laurel, MT
Location: Thomson Park

Fourth Fest
Where: Missoula, MT
Location: Southgate Mall

Polson’s 4th of July Celebration
Where: Polson, MT
Location: Polson Fairgrounds

Whitefish July 4th Fireworks
Where: Whitefish, MT
Location: Whitefish City Beach

Show Off Your Country Pride

It’s no secret that Montanan’s have a lot of pride...and what better day of the year to show it than on the Fourth? Whether it’s a pride for your state or your country, it’s not hard to look your best with UPTOP. Bring your USA flag, rock a “Montana Til I Die” tank, and stand out among the crowd.

We hope this guide helps you celebrate the Fourth of July in the most Montanan way! Gather up your buddies, fire up the grill, get your boats ready, and don’t forget to tag us wearing your favorite UPTOP gear.