Missoula Arts and Culture Events: Indigenous Discussions, Heavy Music, National Parks Exhibition, Dead Day, and Lords of Dirt
Discover a variety of arts and cultural events taking place in Missoula in the upcoming week. Join a community discussion on the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives movement at the Jeannette Rankin Peace Center. Local artist Dre Castillo will lead a collaborative community painting session during the event. This event is part of a series of Indigenous-led events happening in conjunction with the Western Montana Fair. Join the discussion circle, storytelling, and resource sharing on Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Jeannette Rankin Peace Center Community Room.
Experience a night of heavy music at the Zootown Arts Community Center's Show Room on Thursday. Three bands, including Death Support, Elephant Graveyard, and Tephra, will take the stage. Enjoy a mix of crusty black metal, slam deathcore, and slow-burning doom music. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are available for $10 in advance or $15 on the day of the show.
Frame of Mind presents "Hold the Wild: Our National Parks in Art," a group art exhibition showcasing the beauty and importance of national parks in the United States. Explore paintings, photography, and mixed-media pieces that highlight the diversity of these natural landscapes. The exhibition features a framed Monte Dolack "Yellowstone Falls" poster, with proceeds benefiting Five Valleys Land Trust. Join the opening reception on Friday from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The exhibition runs through August 27.
Celebrate the legacy of the Grateful Dead at Missoula Dead Day on Saturday at Caras Park. Enjoy Grateful Dead covers and original music from local bands 710 Ashbury and Flash Panda. This family-friendly event commemorates 30 years since Jerry Garcia's passing. Food trucks will be on site, and alcohol will be available for purchase. The event is free and runs from noon to 7 p.m.
Experience the thrill of flat-track motorcycle racing at the Lords of Dirt event on Sunday at the Missoula County Fairgrounds. Watch as racers navigate a reimagined TT track with tight turns and motocross tricks. Enjoy live music, family fun, and high-speed racing action. Doors open at 4 p.m., and races start at 5:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased through the fairgrounds website via etix.com. Don't miss this exciting event to close out the Western Montana Fair's festivities.