About Event

The River Fest is the pinnacle of celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the designation of the Flathead Wild & Scenic River! Presented by American Rivers and Flathead Rivers Alliance, the River Fest will be held on Friday, July 10, in Marantette Park in downtown Columbia Falls from 5:00 - 9:00 PM. This community event celebrates the significance of the river system and its pivotal inspiration of the 1968 National Wild & Scenic Rivers Act and formation of the National Wild & Scenic River system, that less than ½ of 1% of rivers are protected under to protect free flow, water quality, and "outstandingly remarkable values" (ORVs). This event brings live music, local beer, food trucks, raffles, adult and kid activities, and so much more. 100% of proceeds from raffles, ice cream, select concessions, and merchandise supports Flathead Rivers Alliance and wild river initiatives.

We’re thrilled to welcome Boot Juice, a cosmic seven-piece rock band known for energetic performances blending soul, blues, and funk, as the 50th Anniversary River Fest headliner. Live music is made possible by Music Sponsors Freedom Bank, Whitefish Credit Union, and American Rivers. Stay tuned for more band, raffle, food, drink, and beer details as our line-up is updated.

Entry is FREE.

• Live music headlined by Boot Juice

• 15 partner booths with interactive activities for all ages

• Debut of Sacred Waters Brewing x Flathead Rivers Alliance special edition 50th Anniversary Flathead Wild & Scenic River beer

• Guest speakers connected to the movement that started it all 50 years ago

• Presentation by City of Columbia Falls

• 50-year Walk Through History Display

• Scooping Sweet Peaks Ice Cream River Float

• Custom adorn glitter

• Shuttles

• And so much more

Our amazing RAFFLE features Red Eagle Aviation Flight into Schafer Meadows and more raffles being added! You don’t have to be present to win. Let’s get this river season started on July 10! Celebrate the river system that started in all at this community event! If you love rivers and good times, you’ll feel right at home.

Title Sponsor-
Many thanks to other event sponsors/partners American Rivers, City of Columbia Falls, Discover Columbia Falls, Columbia Falls Chamber of Commerce, Sacred Waters Brewing, Freedom Bank, Whitefish Credit Union, Sweet Peak Ice Cream, adorn designs, and more joining the line-up.