It's beginning to feel a lot like winter! And with Bozeman’s extended winter season (beginning of December to mid-April and beyond), for many it’s time to bring out the ski gear and head for the slopes.
But Bozeman’s isn’t just for winter sports enthusiasts, there’s a lot to do for everyone. So when you’re not skiing, try these 5 fun-filled activities:
1. SLAM (Support your Local Artists and Musicians) Winter Festival
Shop for holiday gifts and support Bozeman’s local artists and musicians at the same time with original art and craft work for sale, including: ceramics, paintings, fine art, leather, textiles, bath and body products, metal, photography, instruments, jewelry, glass, and wood (to name a few).
Dance while you shop while live music plays throughout the day and into the night by Bozeman original musicians on both Saturday and Sunday. Check out who plays when with the SLAM music schedule. Get all your holiday shopping done with original gift ideas at this free event. More info on their Facebook page.
What: 2019 Winter Showcase
Where: Bozeman Event Space, located at 14 S. Tracy Ave.
When: Saturday December 7th from 12pm-8pm and Sunday December 8th from 12pm to 5pm
Price: Free
2. Bozeman’s Annual Ice Festival
Thinking about trying a new and exciting, outdoor physical winter sport? Want to test your taste for adventure and endurance? How about ice climbing? Hyalite Canyon just south of Bozeman, Montana hosts an ice climbing festival in early December. Ice climbing is a growing winter sport that is attracting new fans each year, and Bozeman is home to one of the best places to climb ice in the United States.
The Bozeman Annual Ice Festival is your chance to learn more about this niche sport with self-rescue, women’s and youth climbing clinics held throughout the week. After class, climb together as a group in the canyon and celebrate the climb over hot cocoa at the Black Diamond Advanced Base Camp. Each evening, the Emerson Ballroom hosts hot meals and beers. Friday and Saturday enjoy the Adventure Film Festival. The week winds down with a Sunday party of dinner, drinks, and storytelling.
What: Bozeman 2019 Annual Ice Festival
Where: All-day clinics in Hyalite Canyon at the following areas: Genesis, Mummy 2, the Scepter, the Amphitheater, and Unnamed Wall. In-town events as well. Event locations listed here.
When: December 11th to December 15
Price: Price varies according to activity.
3. HaufBrau Open Mic Night
Do you have a talent you’d like to share? Try reciting a poem, dance, sing a song, perform a comedy act, or play an instrument (just to name a few) at open mic night at the HaufBrau House. Located near Montana State University in the Barmuda Triangle, Haufbrau is one of the liveliest spots in Bozeman. They provide a casual atmosphere where you can grab a cold craft beer, a hearty burger or sandwich, and delicious fries. Menu options here.
Whether you’re a solo act, group act or just want to have a great meal while watching great entertainment, Haufbrau House should be on your list of things to do this winter in Bozeman.
What: Haufbrau Open Mic Night
Where: HaufBrau House at 22 S. 8th Avenue Bozeman, MT
When: Sunday, Monday and Wednesday nights at 10:00 pm
Price: No fee to participate, just the ability to laugh and have some fun
4. Teahouse Tango Dance
Are you a fan of Dancing with the Stars? Have you always wanted to learn to dance the Tango? No more excuses! Traditional Argentine Tango dancing at the Teahouse is hosted by Bozeman Tango on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month. This free event offers lessons at the beginning of the evening!
And the tea! Did you know that Bon Appetit says that tea is the new coffee? Townshend’s Bozeman Teahouse is one of the few places in town open past 8pm that offers a great atmosphere and great tea. Stop by the “apothecary cabinet” to smell the loose tea before choosing your drink of choice. Then tango ‘til your feet hurt.
What: Teahouse Tango Dance
Where: Townshend's Bozeman Teahouse at 402 E Main St, Bozeman, MT
When: 2nd and 4th Friday of each month at 7:30 pm
Price: Free
5. Bozeman Breakout Escape Room
It’s said that you can tell a lot about a person when you vacation or paddle a canoe together. We say that you can learn a lot about a person when you’re stuck in a room and have to try and escape together. Whether you assemble your own team of friends and colleagues, are part of a duo, or go it alone, escape games test your social and problem solving skills by challenging your brainpower and common sense. The rooms are broken down by theme and you’ll have one hour to escape. Find out how you’ll do.
What: Bozeman Breakout Escape Room
Where: 2304 W Main St Suite 6; Bozeman, MT
When: Most Friday evenings throughout December starting at 9:15 pm
Price: The normal rate is $25 per person. Their premium room is $3 more per person.
Conclusion
And here you thought Bozeman was all about skis and poles, snow and powder. There’s plenty to do even if you don’t like skiing or want something different. Looking for more ideas? Check out Bozeman’s Chamber of Commerce or Bozeman Magazine for a calendar of events.
