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What to know if your attending Under The Big Sky Music Festival in Whitefish, Montana as an engaged couple!
- Donna Langston
- Jul 14, 2025
- 5 min read
Attending Under The Big Sky in Whitefish, Montana, as an engaged couple can be an amazing experience by combining music, nature, and romance. If you're recently engaged you might be wondering where in this gorgeous state of Montana should you have your wedding celebration? Well since you're in NorthWest Montana attending Under The Big Sky Music Festival, why not extend the trip to look at some beautiful wedding venues in the area. The River House, riverhousemontana.com is a beautiful ride down Hwy 83 south into the Swan Valley. At just 82 miles away from Whitefish, it's a hop, jump and a skip away from Under The Big Sky Festival. If you're drawn to Big Mountain Ranch in Whitefish, Montana then you're probably looking for an outdoor wedding venue with peaks, rivers and forests. So before or after your Big Sky festival, you should come take a tour at The River House!
Things to know about the Festival (Under The Big Sky):
Under the Big Sky Festival 2025
"Under The Big Sky celebrates the tradition of gathering friends and family together under open skies to listen to music. Explore the breadth and legacy of Americana with artists celebrating both traditional and contemporary takes on our country's rich musical traditions.
Set on a 350 acre ranch just outside of Whitefish Montana, enjoy expansive 180 degree views of the heart of Big Sky Country and performances across two stages in naturally formed amphitheaters on the ranch.
Wander through the grounds and you may stumble upon Rough Stock Rodeo or hop on trail ride around the ranch." For more detailed information here is the official website, https://www.showclix.com/event/under-the-big-sky-festival-2025/tag/website
All ages are welcome and kids 6 and under enter free (Must RSVP with your purchase of GA ticket) It's held at Big Mountain Ranch in Whitefish, MT, a short drive from Glacier National Park. The festival focuses on Americana, folk, alt-country, and rock. This year there are 38 bands spaning over 3 days. Besides the music, you can enjoy rodeo events, a petting zoo, local food vendors, craft beers, and artisan markets. There's often a "Merch Barn" for souvenirs.
You'll need to scan your tickets each day. VIP tickets offer perks like dedicated areas, bars, and upgraded restrooms (and are strictly 21+). Children 6 and under are free but need to be RSVP'd. It's good to know the rules ahead of time to keep things simple.
What to Bring (and not to bring):
Allowed: Cell phones, bug spray (aerosol 6oz or less), non-professional cameras, medium backpacks/purses (18x13x8 or smaller), blankets/towels, low-back chairs, sunscreen (4oz lotion or 6oz aerosol), chapstick, lipstick, eyedrops, makeup, empty 32oz (or less) reusable water bottles (there are free refill stations), GoPros (without sticks), sunglasses, mints.
Prohibited: Guns, pets, cigarettes (e-cigs okay), lighters, all other aerosols, RVs on-site (unless in designated RV parking), totems, illegal drugs/paraphernalia, large backpacks, glass bottles, outside food/drink (no re-entry, so pack what you can carry for the day), weapons, laser pointers, selfie sticks, audio recording devices, professional cameras, drones, umbrellas (parasols okay), chalk/markers/sharpies, chains/chain wallets, gum, stickers/flyers/solicitations, cleated shoes, clothing promoting drugs/gangs.
Transportation: Free shuttles are typically available from 11 AM to midnight each day. Parking is complimentary, but overnight parking for RVs is prohibited. Consider a designated driver or shuttle if you plan to drink, as ride-sharing services like Uber can be unreliable from the venue.
Amenities: Look for ADA entrances and viewing locations, first aid stations, lost and found, showers, bathrooms, and a general store.
Food & Drink: Expect plenty of food and drink vendors on-site. Prices can be high, and no outside food or drink is allowed.
More Q&A can be found at, https://www.underthebigskyfest.com/faqs/
Romantic Aspects & Things to Do as an Engaged Couple in Whitefish:
Lodging:
Cozy & Romantic Stays: Look for intimate accommodations like Airbnbs/VRBOs, or charming bed and breakfasts such as The Duck Inn Lodge, Farmhouse Inn & Kitchen, or Good Medicine Lodge. Some offer fireplaces, jacuzzis, and private settings. The Lodge at Whitefish Lake is also a luxurious option.
Festival-Specific Camping: Bryan's Field is a preferred campground less than a mile from the festival, offering glamping tents for two, but no RV hookups. Whitefish KOA Campground is another RV option further away.
Catering from The Silk Road at wedding venue near Whitefish, MT
Beyond the Festival:
Glacier National Park: Whitefish is very close to Glacier National Park (about 27 miles), offering breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife. Consider packing a picnic for a romantic meal with stunning views.
Whitefish Lake: Enjoy strolling hand-in-hand along the shores, boating, swimming, or even a romantic dinner with panoramic views at a lakeside restaurant like the Boat Club Restaurant.
Spa Day: Indulge in couples' massages or other spa treatments for relaxation and rejuvenation. Some spas may even offer call-out services to your vacation rental.
Dining: Whitefish has a variety of restaurants, from authentic Italian like Abruzzo Italian Kitchen, https://www.abruzzoitaliankitchen.com,to local cuisine featuring huckleberries, elk, and bison. Another romantic and great restaurant in WhiteFish is, Herb & Omni, https://www.herbandomni.com
Reservations will be essential at most restaurants in Whitefish this and most weekends in the sumer.
Brewery/Winery Tours: Take a Brews Cruise to explore local breweries, wineries, and distilleries without worrying about driving, https://www.brewscruise.com/big-sky/
Outdoor Activities:
Horseback Riding: Experience the rugged beauty of Montana on horseback. Bar W Guest Ranch offers trail rides.
Fishing at Swan River near Whitefish, Montana Hiking: Explore numerous trails around Whitefish and Glacier National Park.
Water Activities: Canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even whitewater rafting on the Flathead River and fishing.
Whitefish Mountain Resort: Offers scenic chairlift rides, hiking, zip-line tours, and an alpine slide in the summer.
You can also check out out the Whitefish Farmers' Market (Tuesdays), explore art galleries, or try axe throwing at Hank's Hatchets.
Tips for Engaged Couples:
Plan Ahead: Especially for accommodations, as Whitefish gets very busy during the summer. Book early!
Prioritize Togetherness: While the festival is exciting, remember to carve out time for romantic activities outside of the music, whether it's a quiet dinner, a scenic hike, or a spa day.
Stay Hydrated: Montana summers can be warm, and you'll be on your feet at the festival. Utilize the free water refill stations.
Be Prepared for Weather: The weather can change quickly in Montana. Bring layers.
Disconnect (a little): Cell service can be spotty at the festival. Embrace the opportunity to unplug and enjoy each other's company without constant distractions.
Capture Memories: Bring a non-professional camera (or use your phone) to capture the beautiful scenery and your festival moments together.
There's so much to see in the area that if you can't do it all just come back. The festival brings a lot of people so if you don't have tickets this year start planning for Under The Big Sky Festival in 2026.
Coming up to the Flathead Valley is beautiful any time and Condon is really just down the road. So if you're wanting to checkout beautiful wedding venues please contact us, https://www.riverhousemontana.com/contact-8 For more information on The River House Wedding & Event Venue check out our instagram and facebook pages:
https://www.instagram.com/theriverhouseweddings/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564208978040
As a locally owned family wedding venue we recognize the value these types of venues bring to the wedding industry. We all work hard to offer our wedding couples the best experience for their wedding celebration. Below is a list of other locally owned wedding venues in different parts of the United States.
Thank you so much for your time we are here to help you have the best wedding ever.
Donna Langston
The River House Wedding & Event Venue
Condon, Montana
406-861-2873
About me: I'm a lover of mountains, rivers and trees and wish to share our beautiful place in Condon, Montana with others. As a mental health therapist, I understand the importance of making your dreams come true. I often use my skills to help the wedding celebration have minimal stress and maximum joy!
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