Metis Celebration and PowWow

Immerse yourself in the cultural enchantment of the annual Metis Celebration and PowWow on Labor Day weekend. Celebrate the Native American cultures of Central Montana with native fiddlers, dancers, singers, and crafters throughout the United States and Canada. All converge at the Fergus County Fairgrounds; everyone is welcome.

The PowWow is an opportunity for families to experience Native American dance demonstrations and contests, raffles, displays, games, storytelling, cultural demonstrations, concessions, and more, engaging visitors in commemorating Montana's native beginnings.

The encampment begins setting up on Thursday, and the PowWow opens Friday with fiddle dancing and jigging. A life auction of items donated by visiting tribes is held Friday evening. The Metis Celebration parade is at noon on Saturday; all entries depict life pre-1900. The PowWow is Saturday and Sunday, with open mic music both days. Camping setup at the Fergus County Fairgrounds begins at 3 pm on the Thursday before Labor Day.

Other Things You Might Like

Lewistown Chokecherry Festival

The first Saturday after Labor Day, central Montana ushers in the return of fall with the annual Chokecherry Festival, held in Lewistown, the geographical center of the state. When the then Governor Stan Stephens came to Lewistown to witness the Festival in 1991, he enjoyed it so much he declared Lewistown the Chokecherry Capitol of Montana.

Chokecherry Jam

On the night before the Chokecherry Festival, a street jam is held in Lewistown to support three local youth organizations; Fergus/Petroleum 4-H, the Boys & Girls Club of Lewistown, and the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Ranch.

Trails and Ales

Trails & Ales began in 2014 to commemorate the opening of Trailhead Park. Craft brewers from all over Montana bring samplings of their talent for the benefit of the Lewistown Trail System. In 2018, Trails & Ales moved to its permanent location, Creekside Park, across the street from Trailhead Park. Trails & Ales is the closing event of the renowned Chokecherry Festival. Live music is provided. Tickets are only required to sample beer, are sold on-site the day of the event, and include a souvenir mug. Must be over the age of 21 to sample beer. BYOC – Bring Your Own Chair advised.

Central Montana Fair

The Central Montana Fair features a carnival, a Professional Rodeo, two motor-sports events, a concert, 4-H events, and tons of other activities.