Chico sponsors nights of festive celebration in Paradise Valley
New Year’s resolutions will grab hold before we know it, but there’s still time to satisfy cravings of the gluttonous variety with an overnight to Chico! The local getaway is perfect for weekend escapes with live entertainment in the Saloon every Friday and Saturday. Here’s a look at what’s coming up.
Soak up the spirit with A Chico Christmas on Friday, December 20th. The festivities will take place on the front lawn from 4–7pm. Activities include horse-drawn wagon rides, tree lighting, caroling, a camp fire, hot cocoa and cider, as well as cookies and an appearance by Santa! This family friendly event is open to the public.
Later in the evening on Dec. 20th, Helena’s Justin Case Band will perform in the Saloon. The ‘70s to ‘90s rock band covers tunes ranging from the Allman Brothers and Three Dog Night, to Stone Temple Pilots and Pearl Jam. The band is comprised of Mike Killeen (guitar), Luke Michelson (bass), and Jeremy Slead (drums). Note: Justin Case will also play Chico the following night, Saturday, Dec. 21st.
On Sunday, December 22nd, KneeJürk fronts its annual “Hot Buttered Holidaze” Christmas show beginning at 8pm. The supersonic Southwest Montana duo incorporates the big band beat, performing the best toe tappin’ sing-alongs from the ‘60s to now. Their holiday album will be available for purchase at the show.
Rock, reggae, funk and country group Downtime will take the stage Friday and Saturday, December 27th and 28th. The Billings-based band originally formed as a three-piece acoustic cover group. Marco Castro, Gerrick Phillips, and Josh Moore earned their initial reputation, but the band has since grown to a full electric outfit adding Dennis Mailloux (bass guitar) and Luke Kestner (drums). The group will keep the party going, so be sure to rest up before you catch these shows!
Party to The MAX for New Year’s! The Saloon will host the area-favorite band on Tuesday, December 31st. The popular band has entertained and delighted audiences nationwide since the mid-80s, calling Montana home since 1993. With Kyle Brenner (guitar), Mike Young (drums), and Bobb Clanton (bass), The MAX plays spot-on renditions of a wide variety of choice danceable rock n’ roll covers and has two original albums, Shadows in the Shade and Vinyl Valentine. The MAX has shared the stage with Styx, REO Speedwagon and the Fabulous Thunderbirds.
Live Saloon music begins at 9pm. Chico Hot Springs is located in Pray, 20 miles south of Livingston. Come sip, soak and swing! For more information, visit www.chicohotsprings.com. •