October is a beautiful time to experience Montana. The crowds of summer have thinned, the trees are beginning to turn into their glorious golden colors and communities across the state celebrate the season with harvest festivals, Oktoberfests, art markets, music and plenty of family fun. If you’re looking for a reason to get out and explore Big Sky Country this fall, here are some of the top events to put on your October calendar.
While you’re out enjoying the top fall festivals in Montana, or on a quest for a change of pace in life, check out what the Hollinger Real Estate team has to offer. Explore the lakefront homes and land for sale in Montana and let us guide you to your next chapter in life!
Great Northwest Oktoberfest | Whitefish | October 1–10, 2026
Few Montana fall celebrations are as lively as The Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish. Held over two weekends at Depot Park, October 1–3 and 8–10, the festival brings Bavarian traditions to the Flathead Valley with German music, dancing, food, beer, stein-holding contests, and the popular keg-hurling competition. It is a favorite annual gathering for our real estate team in Bigfork, Montana, residents in the Flathead Valley and visitors alike.
GermanFest | Missoula | October 3, 2026
Head to Caras Park for GermanFest on October 3. Missoula’s long-running Oktoberfest-style celebration features live music, German food, beer, brats, pretzels and games for the whole family. It’s a fun way to enjoy a taste of Bavaria while taking in downtown Missoula’s festive atmosphere. Don’t forget to wear your Lederhosen!
Bridger Raptor Festival | October 3–4, 2026
Nature lovers should make plans for the Bridger Raptor Festival October 3–4. The festival celebrates the spectacular fall migration of birds of prey through the Bridger Mountains. Visitors can enjoy educational programs and opportunities to learn more about Montana’s raptors and the remarkable migration taking place overhead. Speaking of which, if you have an affection for owls, Montana is home to the nation’s most respected Owl Research Institute located in Charlo, Montana.
Billings HarvestFest | October 10, 2026
This popular street festival celebrates the changing season with arts and crafts, pumpkins, mums, jams, pies, local produce, food trucks and live entertainment. There’s also a children’s activity area and Montana Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest beer garden and stein-hoisting contest – the latter of which is always a must-see our list!
Bozeman Fall MADE Fair | October 9–10, 2026
For shoppers looking for something distinctly Montana, the Bozeman Fall MADE Fair October 9–10 showcases independent makers, artists, designers and craftspeople. It’s a great opportunity to find locally made gifts, home décor, artwork, clothing and specialty foods while supporting Montana businesses.
Livingston Oktoberfest | October 17, 2026
On October 17, Livingston Oktoberfest brings food, shopping and family-friendly festivities to downtown Livingston. The event also includes Halloween-themed nature crafts and free souvenir photos, making it a fun fall stop while exploring this charming western Montana town.
Montana’s Spooktacular Haunted Houses & Ghost Towns
If you’re someone who feels the thrill of the eerie echoes of the past, then Montana is a true paradise for thrill-seekers and ghost enthusiasts alike! From Civil War specters wandering forgotten battlefields to unsettling whispers drifting through abandoned mines and dusty bars, the Treasure State is steeped in supernatural allure. We’ve done the research for you, so gear up for a ghostly journey through haunted hotels and eerie hostels.
MONTANA. LIVE IT. LOVE IT.
