Let’s use that extra hour of daylight to celebrate spring with a trip out to Norris Hot Springs. Visit the historic wooden pool for a soak and take a moment to enjoy the way spring creeps into Southwestern Montana. The birds are returning in large numbers to the feeders, stocked and ready, Crocus of every color are peeking up, and soon the daffodils and tulips will be everywhere. Plans for the garden are well underway, with starts under grow lights chugging away to grow into organic meals soon. If your visit is timed for a sunset, you’ll notice the way the afternoon shadows are changing – summer will be here before you know it.
The staff enjoys the “in between” of April, a chance to upgrade and check on all the systems that have been through the snowiest winter in memory to ensure you a happy and soothing soak in the Water of the Gods.
April is the last month before big changes take place at Norris. The campground will open soon and the 50 Mile Grill will be back to serve the best of locally sourced, sustainable proteins, the freshest greens mostly grown onsite, and spectacular daily specials that will tantalize every taste bud in the family. A craft beer or a glass of wine from the impressive selection are the perfect accompaniment to your meal, served poolside no less.
Friday, March 30th sees Henry & Isla. A duet from Bozeman, very new to the scene, the duo are monsters of folk music. They’re currently working on originals and couldn’t be more excited to see where their harmonies and dynamic oddities take them.
Chad Ball closes out the month on Saturday, March 31st. The Butte-based singer/songwriter brings a mixture of acoustic folk/blues with catchy storytelling melodies. He’s strongly influenced by ‘70s folk/rock.
Norris welcomes another Butte performer, Chad Okrusch, on Sunday, April 1st. Okrusch is a fifth-generation Montanan. He makes his Rocky Mountain Americana music in backwoods bars near his favorite trout fishing spots from Red Lodge to Seattle. In addition to his original songs, he sings tributes to his favorite songwriters, from John Prine to Prince.
On Friday, April 6th, Rod Morrison takes the stage. A Helena musician, Rod performs guitar-based acoustic tunes played and sung with feeling. He’ll bring classics you’ll recognize but don’t hear every day, mixed with an occasional original song or two.
A new band performs Saturday, April 7th – Seldom Kings. The fun, creative pair of multi-instrumentalists will entertain with original music, spot-on covers and those barely recognizable, as well as some other great surprises.
Aaron Williams rounds out the weekend on Sunday, April 8th. From rock/reggae band In Walks Bud, Aaron will be playing a variety of tunes including rock, folk, and reggae. He’s a real favorite at Norris.
Neil Filo Beddow is next up on Friday, April 13th. He plays original folk rock for the soul, and describes his guitar style as the “West Dakota stutter.” His lyrically scrambled iambic pentameter can be politically bent, spiritually seeking, and tongue-in-cheek humorous with just a twist of serious.
Nathan North returns Saturday, April 14th. A Billings performer, Nathan uses loops to create complex and wonderful songs. He’ll be performing originals and notable covers. He’s is a Norris crowd favorite.
Enjoy the sounds of Todd Green on Sunday, April 15th. Originally from Michigan, Green has lived in the area for more than thirty years. He is known for his acoustic light rock musical style and passion for vinyl records. Expect to hear ‘60s–‘80s rock classics including favorites from America, The Eagles to David Bowie, Pink Floyd and everything in between.
Joe Schwem gets the following weekend to a fine start on Friday, April 20th. He’s a singer/songwriter from Bozeman with Americana, folk and rock influences. Joe plays a mix of original songs and covers.
Aran Buzzas is back on Saturday, April 21st. Calling his music “Homegrown Montana Folky Tonk,” Aran performs songs that are easy to relate to, often amusing, and frequently with a regional backdrop.
Finally, Mathias will be live from the Poolside Stage on Sunday, April 22nd. The Bozeman-based singer/songwriter has been playing music under the big sky for nearly two decades. With powerful vocals and a percussive guitar style, he’s known for his dynamic live performances full of acoustic folk, rock, and funk tunes. Mathias recorded his debut album, Walk Alone, with the help of Emmy Award-winning producer Jeremiah Slovarp.
Norris Hot Springs is a historic treasure in Montana, and has proudly offered locals and travelers a soothing place to ‘Eat, Drink, Soak and Enjoy’ for many years. Operating hours, menu items, and information about the designated driver program is available at www.norrishotsprings.com. Call (406) 685-3303 with additional questions.