Summertime has officially returned to the Treasure State with the collective hope our wet spring will stave off the annual threat of wildfire season as much as it can. The calendar is bursting at the seams with outdoor events in and around the valley to be enjoyed during bluebird days and breezy nights.
We’ve also seen banner years for local business, tourism and recreational opportunities akin to the “Before Times” following a global health crisis. The masses have returned to the streets, filling venues to capacity and the aisles of every store. This summer is anticipated to be Bozeman’s busiest yet.
Though our town is developing into something native Bozemanites may not be particularly fond of, we still must reflect on all the things we love about this place we call home – from our service industries and various forms of entertainment, to our shared access to Southwest Montana’s abundant outdoors.
The time has come to once again join together as a community to reward the efforts of local proprietors and event promoters, name our preferred outdoor activities and natural hotspots. Every vote counts during this annual salute to Bozeman and beyond.
Beginning July 1st, the polls open for the 23rd Annual Best of Bozeman. The friendly local competition is the original celebration of everything we love about our town and its seemingly infinite offerings. Though The BoZone sponsors the poll every year, it’s each voter who decide the winners in each category. This is an opportunity for Southwest Montanans of all ages to have their say in the crowning of area establishments, whether first-time winners or defending champs.
This year’s voting will again consist of a multiple choice format, displaying area favorites from previous surveys and the option to add a choice not listed. While there are many categories to represent our area’s finest, voters can decide the winners of as many or as few titles as they please.
Make it a point to give recognition to your favorite food and beverage venues, service industries, live entertainers, small businesses, nonprofits, other local destinations, and so much more. Continuing the tradition, it’s up to each and every one of you to acknowledge Bozeman’s crème de la crème. Log on to www.bestofbozeman.com to peruse the complete list of 2023 winners and to make your picks. The 2024 Best of Bozeman voting window is July 1st through August 15th. •