Celebrate 50 Years of the Flathead Wild & Scenic River at River Fest

Free family-friendly festival on July 10 celebrates the rivers that inspired a national conservation movement.

COLUMBIA FALLS, MT. (July 1, 2026) — Flathead Rivers Alliance and American Rivers invite residents and visitors alike to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Flathead Wild & Scenic River designation during River Fest on Friday, July 10, from 5:00–9:00 p.m. at Marantette Park in Columbia Falls.

This free community celebration honors one of America's most renowned river systems. The North, Middle, and South Forks of the Flathead River inspired passage of the National Wild & Scenic Rivers Act in 1968. In 1976, the Three Forks of the Flathead River became part of the national system of protected rivers that the Act created. Today, less than 1/2 of 1% of rivers in the United States receive this highest level of protection, making the Flathead Wild & Scenic River a nationally significant conservation success story.

"This milestone is about more than celebrating the past, it's about inspiring the next generation of river stewards," said Sheena Pate, Executive Director of Flathead Rivers Alliance. "For 50 years, the Flathead Wild & Scenic River has been protected under this designation, safeguarding clean water, world-class fisheries and recreation, exceptional wildlife habitat, and unforgettable experiences. River Fest brings our community together to celebrate everything these remarkable rivers mean to northwest Montana and to our nation."

As a longtime champion for healthy rivers in Montana and nationwide, American Rivers is proud to cohost River Fest.

"The Flathead River continues to shine as an example of how thriving communities depend on free-flowing rivers and clean water,” said Lisa Ronald, Northern Rockies Associate Conservation Director with American Rivers. “American Rivers is honored to celebrate this landmark anniversary alongside Flathead Rivers Alliance and the many partners, businesses, and community members who will continue to steward this special river for the next 50 years.”

River Fest offers something for everyone, including:

• Live music by Boot Juice, an acclaimed cosmic rock band known for energetic performances blending soul, blues, and funk
• Limited-edition 50th Anniversary beer from Sacred Waters Brewing, commemorative juices from Vibrant Roots, and a variety of local food trucks
• Sweet Peaks Ice Cream
• Educational exhibits and hands-on activities from regional conservation and recreation organizations
• Family-friendly games and activities
• Special guest speakers celebrating the river's history and future
• River-themed raffles, merchandise, and community engagement opportunities

River Fest attendees will have the opportunity to connect with organizations working to protect rivers, public lands, recreation opportunities, and outdoor education, including American Rivers, Flathead Rivers Alliance, Flathead National Forest, Glacier National Park Conservancy, Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation, Montana Kayak Academy, DREAM Adaptive Recreation, River Management Society, Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks, North Valley Search & Rescue, Badger-Two Medicine Alliance, Gateway to Glacier Trails, Glacier Institute, Flathead County Library, Western Montana Conservation Commission, and many more.

All proceeds from raffles, beer sales, ice cream sales, select concessions, and event merchandise directly support Flathead Rivers Alliance's nonprofit river conservation, education, stewardship, volunteer, river access improvement, and river safety programs that help protect the Flathead Wild & Scenic River for future generations.

The event also celebrates the partnerships that have protected and enhanced the Flathead River for decades. River Fest is made possible through the generous support of American Rivers, Freedom Bank, Whitefish Credit Union, Slow Burn Records, the City of Columbia Falls, Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, Discover Columbia Falls, and many additional sponsors, partners, and volunteers.

To make attending easy and convenient, free shuttles will be available between designated parking areas in Columbia Falls and Marantette Park thanks to Glacier Guides & Montana Raft and Glacier Raft Company & Glacier Anglers.

Event Details

50th Anniversary Flathead Wild & Scenic River Fest

Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 5:00–9:00 p.m.
Location: Marantette Park, Columbia Falls, Montana
Admission: Free and open to the public

For the complete event schedule, entertainment lineup, participating organizations, parking and shuttle information, festival FAQs, and additional event details, visit:

www.flatheadrivers.org/river-fest

Media representatives seeking interviews, event photos, or additional information are encouraged to contact Flathead Rivers Alliance prior to the event.

About Flathead Rivers Alliance

Flathead Rivers Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and enhancing the outstandingly remarkable values of over 219-miles of the three forks of the Flathead River through stewardship, education, recreation, science, and community partnerships. Through volunteer stewardship projects, river safety education, youth engagement, scientific monitoring, and collaborative conservation initiatives, the organization works to ensure the Flathead Wild & Scenic River remains healthy, accessible, and protected for future generations.

About American Rivers

American Rivers is a national conservation organization working to make every river clean and healthy for people and wildlife. We combine evidence-based solutions with enduring partnerships to safeguard the 3.5 million miles of rivers and streams that are essential to our nation’s clean drinking water, extraordinary wildlife, and strength of our communities. For more than 50 years, our staff, supporters, and partners have been driven by a common belief: Life Depends on Rivers. American Rivers is a national conservation organization working to protect wild rivers, restore damaged rivers, and conserve clean water for people and nature. Since 1973, American Rivers has led efforts across the United States to safeguard healthy rivers and ensure every community has access to clean water and thriving waterways.

Media Contacts

 For additional event information, visit www.flatheadrivers.org/river-fest