Under the Big Sky 2025 — Guide to Montana’s Music Festival
Under the Big Sky is fast becoming Montana’s most recognizable music festival. Aptly named, festival-goers flock to the mountains outside Glacier National Park to take in three music-packed days in the real-life Big Sky Country.
Under the Big Sky 2025 features genre-bending acts like Mumford and Sons, The Red Clay Strays, and Wynona Judd, to name just a small few.
This guide spells it all out — where it is, what it is, how to stay, and all of the ways to make the most of Under the Big Sky.
So, if you’re ready to add a little yee-haw to your giddy-up, dig in below to get the scoop on this show.
// Cover Photo: Recognize this handsome boyband? That’s right, they’ll be at the show this year! …just kidding. That handsome one in the middle is Josh on our wedding day, 04.09. 2016 //
TL;DR
Under The Big Sky Festival is more than just a music event — it celebrates community, artistry, and Montana’s stunning natural beauty.
It’s held annually on a sprawling 350-acre ranch just outside Whitefish, Montana, encased in the ranch’s naturally formed amphitheater. It features a diverse mix of genres, from country and folk to rock and indie. Artists like Lord Huron, Tyler Childers, and Jason Isbell have graced the stage, attracting fans from all corners of the country.
The festival’s unique charm lies in its ability to blend high-energy performances with the serene beauty of Montana’s landscapes.
Imagine this: swaying to the rhythm of live music under a vast Montana sky surrounded by panoramic views of distant peaks and golden fields. It’s an experience that’s both soul-stirring and unforgettable. This annual gathering celebrates the rich tapestry of Americana music, featuring an eclectic lineup that includes everything from soulful folk tunes to foot-stomping bluegrass melodies and electrifying rock performances. And, the whole shindig happens just outside the footsteps of Glacier National Park, meaning you can check this bucket-list spot off your list while you’re in town for the festival.
When and Where
Location: Big Mountain Ranch, Whitefish, Montana
This picturesque 350-acre ranch captures the heart of Big Sky Country.
Dates: July 18-20, 2025
Weather: July is one of the most picture-perfect months in Montana. Expect warm days and cool evenings. July can sometimes get exceptionally hot, but it generally cools down at night.
Under the Big Sky Ticket Options
Day tickets for Under The Big Sky 2025 start at $185. The festival offers a range of ticket types to suit every festivalgoer:
Single-Day Tickets: Ideal for those who can’t commit to the full weekend.
General Admission (all days): Grants access to all stages and general areas. Perfect if you want to stay awhile and soak in all the action.
VIP Passes: Includes perks like VIP parking, shaded areas, access to a private wine and beer garden, VIP restrooms, and more.
Tickets sell out quickly, so snag yours from this site as soon as you know you’re coming to Under the Big Sky.
Planning Your Trip to Under The Big Sky
Getting There
By Air — The nearest airport is Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), just 15 minutes from Whitefish.
By Car — If you’re road-tripping, Whitefish is accessible via U.S. Route 93. It’s 2 hours north of Missoula, off I-90, or a 5-hour drive from Spokane, Washington.
By Train — If you’re lucky enough to live near a train station, Amtrak might be your preferred method of travel. Though you would want to hire a car share or pick up a rental car, the train will drop you off right in downtown Whitefish.
Where to Stay for Under the Big Sky Festival
Under the Big Sky doesn’t currently offer on-site camping or lodging. Instead, they have this list of places to stay all around the festival grounds. Options range from hotels to glamping to RV parks, and more.
And we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention our spot — Flathead Lake Resort. We offer glamping and cabin options with private beach access to Flathead Lake.
We’re about 40 minutes from the festival grounds, and we fill up every year with folks heading to the festival, so you’d be in good company!
Under the Big Sky: More Than The Music
Under The Big Sky Festival is more than a music event — it's a celebration of Montana's vibrant arts and culture. Wander through artisan markets showcasing local crafts, indulge in delicious culinary creations from regional vendors (plant-based and vegetarian options typically available for those seeking a healthy night out), and immerse yourselves in the creative energy that permeates every corner of the event.
Whether you’re there for the music, the scenery, the camaraderie, or all of the above, this festival makes lifelong memories.
Embrace Adventure in Big Sky Country
When you're not lost in the melodies, there's no shortage of adventures in Big Sky Country. Lace up your hiking boots and explore nearby trails offering panoramic views of Glacier National Park. Hit the rivers for some splashing good times or embark on a scenic drive down the Swan River towards the small town of Seeley Lake.
After a day filled with adventure and music, retreat to one of the cozy accommodations at Flathead Lake Resort in Bigfork, Montana. Whether you prefer a lakeside cabin or a vintage Airstream, this is the perfect place to unwind and take a swim in the sought-after Flathead Lake.
Under the Big Sky 2025 Lineup
Here’s the DL on who’s performing at this year’s festival:
Headliners
Tyler Childers
Mumford & Sons
The Red Clay Strays
Wynonna Judd
Supporting Acts
Shane Smith & The Saints
Oliver Anthony
Dylan Gossett
Wyatt Flores
Luke Grimes
Hailey Whitters
Whitey Morgan and the 78's
Houndmouth
Corb Lund
Noeline Hofmann
Brent Cobb
The Brothers Comatose
Willow Avalon
Maggie Antone
Kelsey Waldon
Jonah Kagen
Kade Hoffman
Zandi Holup
Town Mountain
Hogslop String Band
Crowe Boys
Bones Owens
Angel White
The Bridger Creek Boys
Connor Peyton
Give It To Em, Florabelle!
Halladay Quist
Hannah King
The Helnore Highwater Band
North Fork Crossing
Radio Ranch
Sterling Drake
Tobacco River Ramblers
Tomara
Periodically check out this page on the festival website for any potential changes to the lineup.
