For the first time, Montana will officially recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a statewide holiday on October 13, 2025, a victory years in the making.

After more than a decade of advocacy, Indigenous leaders and allies successfully passed Senate Bill 224 in the 2025 legislative session. This moment honors the many distinct Indigenous nations in Montana, uplifts their resilience and resistance, and is a chance for all of us to celebrate the strength and ongoing contributions of Indigenous communities across the state.

Celebrate With Your Community
Indigenous Peoples' Day events will be happening across the state from October 10–13. All events below are free and open to the public. Please note: ACLU of Montana is not organizing these events, but we hope to see you there!

📍 Billings
Round Dance & Vendor Show
🗓️ October 11, 2025 | 5–10 PM
Billings Hotel & Convention Center
Hosted by Western Native Voice

📍 Great Falls
Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration
🗓️ October 10–13, 2025
Great Falls College & Heritage Hall / Paris Gibson Ed Center / Great Falls Public Library

• Oct 10 | 6–8 PM: First Fashion — Native American fashion show featuring Rebekah Jarvey, Brocade Black Eagle, Gina Still Smoking, and more
• Oct 11 | 8 AM–5 PM: 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament + Traditional Games
• Oct 12 | 1–6 PM: Soup & Story — Native stories, traditional games, crafts & activities
• Oct 13 | 4–8 PM: Guest Speakers & Fry Bread Contest — Leon Rattler, MAT; Natasha Hall; Jill Falcon Ramaker, PhD; Dr. Lanny Real Bird

📍 Missoula
Beartracks Celebration Powwow
🗓️ October 13, 2025 | Grand Entry at 2 PM
Caras Park, Missoula
Open to the public | Free admission
Dancers, vendors, food trucks, singers & drums
Contact: Martin Charlo — martin.charlo@cskt.org | 406-274-6892
Hosted by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes

📍 Black Eagle
Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration
🗓️ October 12, 2025 | 6–9 PM
Black Eagle Community Center