SLAMFest features talents of Treasure State’s finest artisans & musicians
Returning to Bogert Park for its ninth annual event, the Summer SLAM Festival will take place Saturday and Sunday, August 3rd and 4th. As it has in years past, the 2019 festival features artists and performers, culinary artisans, and family activities, as well as breweries and distilleries from around the state. One of the unique aspects of the SLAM festival is its spirit of inclusion and community. Free to attend, the Summer festival is open to everyone to come and enjoy and connect with the creative people of our great state. If you’ve never been to the Summer SLAM Festival, or even if you have, here’s a peek at what you’ll find at this year’s event.
Artists Market
The 50+ artists representing themselves at SLAM range from emerging talent to renowned award-winning professional artists. Those who specialize in painting, ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, glass, woodworking, textiles, photography, body products, and mixed media will be offering their work for sale both days during the festival. These artists are true masters of their craft, and are excited to share it with you. Shopping at the SLAM festival is a perfect example of conscientious capitalism… not only do your dollars go directly to the creator, but you have the opportunity to develop a personal connection with the artist. Learning more about the inspiration for a given work of art directly from its creator will undoubtedly give you a deeper appreciation for the end result. If you choose to do some gift shopping, you are assured that the recipient will be getting a handmade gift that is unique and embodies the spirit of the artist.
Artist Demonstrations
While perusing the amazing artists at SLAM, one might be curious about the processes necessary to create such unique and collectible works. The SLAM demonstration tent is the perfect place to explore that curiosity! Demonstrating artists will give in-depth presentations in a casual setting where audience members are encouraged to engage with the artists and ask questions about their processes. Watching the demonstrations will give you a glimpse at the passion required to create art as a career. In addition to the scheduled demonstrations, the MSU Guilds will be giving ongoing demonstrations during both days of the festival.
Live Music & Performances
The SLAM lineup features the immense talent of the many musicians right here in our state. With sets by Michelle Manzo, Sam Platts, Wes Urbaniak and Cole & the Thornes, as well as a special Singer/Songwriter Power Block, the bands that will be gracing the stage are sure to impress and represent a wide range of genres for your listening pleasure! In addition to the world class music lineup, the stage at SLAM will showcase performances of dance, live theater courtesy of Verge, a yoga demonstration, and more. There’s never a dull moment on stage at SLAM. See page xxx for a closer look at the 2019 performance slate.
Artisanal Food
One of the benefits of growth in our state is the introduction of new flavors on the food scene. Rest assured, you can still get a traditional hot dog or a hand-scooped ice cream cone at SLAM, but you can also choose from diverse culinary offerings sure to tantalize every taste bud. Pad thai, zesty wings, juicy bison, italian ice… be sure to bring a hearty appetite, because you’re going to want to taste something from every one of the culinary artisans bringing their delicious dishes to the festival grounds this year!
Montana Libations Garden
A refreshing adult beverage can really complement a meal from one of the food artisans at SLAM. Step into the libations garden and you’ll find something sure to hit the spot, no matter your preference of pour. The microbrewery scene in Montana has exploded in the past few years, and SLAM is proud to exclusively serve delicious beers from Montana breweries. If liquor is more your speed, distilleries from around the state will be offering samples of some of their products, and will have a featured cocktail available for purchase at the bar that showcase the inspired cocktails that can be made from their craft alcohols. The libations garden is open to SLAM patrons who are 21+ years of age. Please bring your ID if you plan on imbibing.
The 2019 Summer SLAM Festival is the perfect place to celebrate the Arts in Montana. There’s something for everyone, and the weather should be just right now that the skies have cleared. Hours of the festival are 10am–7pm on Saturday, and 10am–5pm on Sunday. Come support local artists and musicians at SLAM! Learn more about the 2019 event at www.slamfestivals.org. •
