Big Sky Brewing Company

From its location in Missoula, Montana, the localy-owned Big Sky Brewing Company makes 6 varieties of beer: Scape Goat (Pale Ale), Big Sky (India Pale ale), Moose Drool (a brown ale), Powder Hound (Winter Ale), Summer Honey (Seasonal Ale), and Trout Slayer Ale. The biggest brewery in the state, it also has the largest reach, with its beers distributed throughout 23 different states.

Making use of the unused field beside the brewery, the owners, all big live music fans, began to host live events in 2004, partnering with nonprofit organisations with each and every concert. Volunteers work on the beer stalls, donating proceeds back to the organisations. To date, the concerts have generated more than $500,000 for local nonprofit organisations that work to serve the Missoula community. The venue is now well-established as one of the top destinations for touring live acts of all genres from rock to country.

Big Sky Brewing Co Amphitheater

Big Sky Brewing Amphitheater

Big Sky Brewing Amphitheater is no stranger to stunning shows. It’s seen big name bands and hit sensations including Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio and Modest Mouse who have booked the venue to host shows. And it offers performers and music lovers a stunning panorama to enjoy while dancing and jamming to hot music. Some musicians even admire the view commenting on how it’s got sweet views of the moon and mountains during night time shows, while guests can enjoy the show on comfy grass lawn seating or up close and personal by the stage.

But even with a stunning view, it needs hype to bring out the crowds, and that’s what it gets with support from Knitting Factory Presents, the promoter for the summer concerts at the brewery. They’ve invested several improvements in the venue including a hot new stage with 40 feet of clearance and plenty of room for lighting and special effects as well as all the tech bands need for the hot shows their fans expect. And the engineered bowl improves the acoustics and view, making it an optimal music experience and one of the best venues in Missoula.

But one of the best parts of the bowl design is how it makes it far easier to enjoy the show from all angles. Because the original design made it easy to get caught behind a sea of people getting in the way of the show. But now, you can arrive early and pick your favorite spots and feel comfortable that you’ll enjoy the same view you chose in almost every circumstance.

What’s The Vibe Like

But what’s it like being in the crowd? How’s it feel being part of the show?

Most guests will tell you that half the fun is in sitting and meeting new people. Missoula’s music fans are some of the friendliest crowds in the world. And it’s easy to see why when you see the stunning view they get during the show. It’s simply hard to feel rude or standoffish when you can enjoy the mountains peeking over the horizon. And since most of the seating space is on the lawn, there’s a laid-back vibe that you just don’t get from traditional mostly reserved seating venues.

But what about the staff and merchant vendor experience?

Luckily, lines tend to go fast and the staff is trained to be friendly. That Montana warmth is on full display whether you’re grabbing food and drinks at the bar or checking out merch with the band’s merchant suppliers. So you won’t be away from your friends and family or far from the music at any point.

While the hypest events are the summer concert series, guests will tell you to dress for warm weather. Because sometimes the summer nights can get up towards 80 degrees in heat. So drink lots of water so you can enjoy the show at your best health.