The Lewis and Clark Festival began in Cut Bank in 1979, when a local group of citizens started the festival to commemorate the activities of the Corps of Discovery under the leadership of Meriwether Lewis late in July 1806.  The Cut Bank area boasts two sites of historical significance of the Lewis and Clark expedition.  Camp Disappointment, located west of Cut Bank, is the northernmost point reached on the trip.  The Two Medicine Fight Site (click for picture of site), located south of Cut Bank, is the area where Lewis and his men encountered a hostile group of Indians.  These two stopping points of Meriwether  Lewis and his men are on the National Lewis and Clark Trail.

The first festival featured a parade, fun run, rodeo, street dance, and buffalo burger and bean dinner.

Many of these same activities still take place along with more recent additions.  Some of the newer activities include a tour to the the Fight Site, Children's Pet and Doll Parade, Chili Cook-Off, Car Show, Art Show, Free BBQ and Breakfast, Free Concerts, Talent Show, Archery Competition, Horseshoe Throwing, Craft Fair, Lawn Mower Races, Stock Car Races, and a Singspiration on Sunday night.

There is something for everyone and each year the committee that puts the event together comes up with something new!  The following tentative Schedule of Events will give you an idea of ALL the activities that go on.  Plan to come join us.  We promise you a great time!

Please contact the Cut Bank Chamber of Commerce for more information about any of these activities.