The Gallatin Valley’s most eagerly anticipated summer spread of arts & culture has arrived with the return of the Sweet Pea Festival, celebrating its 47th year with its 2024 event. The weekend of events and activities will be held Friday to Sunday, August 2nd–4th in and around Lindley Park.
Sweet Pea is a three-day festival of the arts held the first weekend in August. The Festival kicks off late Friday afternoon in Lindley Park with a performance of The Winter’s Tale by Montana Shakespeare in the Parks. Saturday ramps up with a children’s run and parade that lead the community to the park where the festivities continue through Sunday evening. Weekend entertainment comes in many forms – music of all genres, performances by local theatre and dance troupes, workshops, family friendly entertainment and activities, a flower show, a beer and wine garden featuring Montana libations, and countless arts and crafts vendors to stroll through and purchase unique gifts for yourself, family and friends.
The week leading up to the Festival offers additional fun-filled, community events. Artists of all skill levels converge on Main Street for ‘Chalk on the Walk’ Tuesday morning, followed by a Sweet Pea-sponsored Music on Main featuring psychedelic rock and Americana outfit North Fork Crossing on Thursday night downtown. The Sweet Pea Art Show will be on display at the ERA Landmark Downtown Visitor’s Center as well.
And of course, one of the biggest draws of Sweet Pea is the live music! This year’s slate will include headlining performances by alt-country artist Rayland Baxter, modern folkster John Craigie and hard-driving bluegrass quintet Po’ Ramblin Boys. Also appearing will be Oliver Hazard, Left on Tenth, Ken Yates, Doc Robinson, March Fourth, Dustbowl Revival, Cole & the Thornes and Alysha Brilla.
Events leading up to Festival weekend are complimentary. Entry to those in Lindley Park requires the purchase of an admission wristband – Full Weekend Access wristbands are $40 and free for kids 12 and under. Weekend passes will be $60 beginning Aug. 2nd, or $40 per day. These may be found at the main box office – located in front of the Bozeman Library.
There’s loads of dance, theatre, family entertainment, and other activities to discover! For further festival information and to purchase 2024 wristbands, visit www.sweetpeafestival.org. •
