As we approach the middle of October (crazy, right?), Helena is buzzing with fall festivities and Halloween happenings that capture the best of the season. Here are a few events you won’t want to miss:
ARTIST AMPLIFIED AT THE BRAY | October 17 from 6:30pm – 8:00pm
At The Bray, local artist Louis Ogemahgeshig Fischer will offer unique insights into her journey as an artist, educator, and traditional healer. The Artist Amplified lecture and demonstration series provides a platform for artists and enthusiasts to connect, as participants share their creative processes, personal histories, and conceptual inspirations through dynamic presentations. See you there! Visit https://helenamt.com/event/artist-amplified-at-the-bray/ for more information.
COWBOY CARNIVAL | October 18th from 5:30pm – 8:30pm & 19th from 11am – 4pm
Kick off the 2024 United Way Fun Fest with Family Fun Night on Friday, October 18th, from 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM at The Salvation Army Gym. Enjoy hands-on balloon sculpture lessons with Neil Sauter, a delicious family meal and a family-friendly movie to wrap up the night.
On Saturday, October 19th from 11am-4pm enjoy a day packed with family-friendly activities, delicious food, and exciting games. There are:
- Carnival Games ($1 per game), sponsored by United Way nonprofit partners, with great prizes to win
- Food Trucks and classic carnival snacks to satisfy every craving
- Balloon Sculptures perfect for photo ops with family and friends
- Costume Contests for all ages—come in your best cowboy or cowgirl gear
- Don’t miss the 50/50 Raffle and other prize raffles for a chance to win big
Mark your calendars for a day of fun at the Cowboy Carnival and visit https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E355490&id=109 for more information.
JUST FOR THE HELENA OF IT HALF MARATHON, 10K, & 5K | October 20th
Treasure State Runners, a local nonprofit, is hosting footrace events in Helena to promote physical, mental, and emotional health.Bring the whole family for the 5K, offering a fun, scenic route under Montana’s big sky. The 10K features a fast, flat out-and-back on the Rails to Trails and Centennial pathways. The Half Marathon weaves through Helena’s historic and scenic areas, showcasing the beauty of the Queen City. All proceeds support The Friendship Center, providing a safe haven for victims of domestic violence, and Girls Thrive, empowering girls to build confidence and positive body image.
Visit https://helenamt.com/event/just-for-the-helena-of-it-half-marathon-10k-5k-2/ for more information.
EXPLORATION WORKS NIGHTMARE AFFAIR AUCTION AND FUNDRAISER | Saturday, October 26th from 6pm – 11pm
Join the 17th Annual Nightmare Affair Gala on October 26, 2024, at the Great Northern Best Western Hotel. The event runs from 6:00-9:00 pm, followed by music and dancing until 11:00 pm. This adults-only Halloween gala supports science education through an evening of gourmet dining, science-themed cocktails, and exciting silent and live auctions. Ten Years Gone will provide live music, adding to the evening’s energy. Can’t attend in person? Participate in the online auction from October 21-26.
Vist https://us.givergy.com/NightmareAffair/?controller=home to buy your tickets and for more information.
KID HALLOWEEN COOKIE DECORATING CLASS | October 29 from 6pm-7:30pm
1609 11th Avenue Suite A
The Dive Bakery & Cafe invites all young bakers to join their Halloween cookie decorating class! Kids aged 8-14 will have the chance to get creative by decorating three spooky-themed cookies and even mix their own custom sprinkles. Whether your child prefers a little guidance or enjoys working independently, they’ll love this hands-on experience. Parents are welcome to stay and watch or simply drop off and pick up later. Plus, there will be snacks and beverages available throughout the class to keep the creativity flowing!
Visit https://allevents.in/helena/kids-halloween-cookie-decorating-class/100001004773674107 for more information!
LITTLE TYKES TRICK OR TREAT | Thursday, October 31st from 1pm – 4pm
Celebrate Halloween in the heart of downtown Helena. Gather the family for a frightfully fun afternoon as local businesses hand out treats to kids from 1:00 to 4:00 pm. Bundle up and enjoy this spooky celebration!
Visit http://members.helenachamber.com/events/details/little-tykes-trick-or-treat-17175 for more information.
