When locals talk about their favorite Bozeman summer traditions, one event always leads the list: the Sweet Pea Festival. If you’re looking for things to do in Bozeman this weekend, here’s your invitation to join the city at its creative, vibrant best.
What Makes the Sweet Pea Festival Special?
Sweet Pea isn’t just a festival—it’s Bozeman’s annual celebration of art, music, and connection. Downtown comes alive every August as Lindley Park transforms into a buzzing hub where families, students, and visitors mingle among artist booths, food stalls, performers, and that unmistakable community spirit.
What sets Sweet Pea apart? It’s the welcoming vibe, the mix of creative talent both local and national, and the sense of belonging whether you’re on your tenth visit or your very first. Festival proceeds fund public art projects and arts education across Bozeman, which means every wristband supports creativity year-round.
2025 Sweet Pea Festival Highlights
Set for August 1–3, 2025, this year’s festival blends trusted favorites with new experiences, making it a weekend you won’t want to miss.
Friday, August 1
- Downtown Art Walk & Opening Night: Local galleries throw open their doors from 4-8 pm with special exhibits and demonstrations. Many downtown businesses host pop-up art shows and music on the sidewalk—perfect for a summer stroll and a bite at one of Bozeman’s great restaurants.
- Music on Main: Starting at 6 pm, catch live performances at the Main Stage in Lindley Park. The evening wraps up with a lively community dance—a great way to kick off your Sweet Pea weekend.
Saturday, August 2
- The Famous Sweet Pea Parade: 10 am sharp, Main Street fills with costumed dancers, marching bands, and themed floats. It’s a spectacle for all ages and a favorite photo opportunity.
- Bite of Bozeman: Sample small plates and treats from 30+ local vendors and restaurants. Foodies: come hungry!
- Children’s Activities Village: From 11 am-4 pm, kids can dive into crafts, face painting, science fun, and puppet shows. The Children’s Carnival is a can’t-miss!
- Performing Arts Stages: Throughout the afternoon and into the evening, Lindley Park hosts dance troupes, jazz ensembles, and street performers. Don’t forget the pop-up improv and theater acts!
Sunday, August 3
- Artisan Market: The artist booths in Lindley Park swell with more than 160 local and regional creators. Find hand-thrown pottery, jewelry, paintings, wearable art, and even watch some artists creating work on site.
- Yoga on the Lawn: Start your Sunday at 8:30 am with a guided community yoga session in the park—free with a festival wristband.
- Live Music and Main Stage Headliners: Sunday is packed with Montana musicians, headlining acts, and back-to-back live performances from noon onward.
- Festival Finale – Fireworks Display: As dusk falls, settle in for the festival’s traditional fireworks show—always a standout end to Bozeman’s favorite weekend.
Insider Tips for the Best Festival Experience
- Buy wristbands in advance online or at local shops—kids under 12 are free.
- Parking gets tight; bike or use the free Sweet Pea shuttles.
- Bring a water bottle—look for refill stations and help keep Sweet Pea eco-friendly.
- Follow the official @sweetpeafestival Bozeman social channels for last-minute schedule updates and giveaways.
- Tag your photos #SweetPeaFestival for a chance to be featured by the festival team.
Why Bozeman Loves Sweet Pea
It’s the one weekend when everyone—from longtime locals to first-time visitors—feels like part of something a little bigger. Whether you’re there for the music, art, food, or just vibe, you’ll find smiles, new friends, and memories worth making.
Ready to experience the best of Montana summer? Sweet Pea Festival 2025 is the place to be this weekend.
For the full schedule, ticket information, and event map, visit Sweet Pea Festival’s official website. See you in Lindley Park!
Posted by PollyAnna Snyder on
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