Just because summer is still a few months away doesn’t mean the Flathead Valley is dull or boring. There’s a ton of activities and events slated for the coming weeks and months. For a complete breakdown, visit flatheadevents.net. Here are some of the top happenings to add to your calendar.
Creston Auction & Country Fair
When: March 31-April 2
Where: Creston, 4498 MT Highway 35
This beloved local event is in its 51st year and remains the best and biggest yard sale in Montana. This three-day event is the annual fundraiser for the Creston Fire Department. It all starts on Friday with Consignment Day, where merchandise is brought for sale or donated. Then the action starts Saturday with multiple auctions for just about everything you can imagine. Sunday features marine, auto and equipment items for sale. Last year’s 50th annual auction netted more than $50,000 for the all-volunteer fire department.
Flathead County Relay for Life
When: Saturday, April 1
Where: Flathead County Fairgrounds, Kalispell
Raise funds and awareness to save lives from cancer and pay homage to survivors by gaining pledges and walking or running around the track, either individually or as a relay team. The opening ceremony will start at 4 p.m. by celebrating those who have been affected by cancer. The opening lap will feature survivors followed by a caregivers lap. A luminary ceremony is scheduled for 8:30 p.m.
Whitefish Mini Masters
When: Thursday, April 6, 7-10 p.m.
Where: Downtown Whitefish
In its fifth year, this event has truly become the most prestigious miniature golf tournament around. Sign up quick because action is limited to only 24 teams of up to six golfers. The course will once again line downtown bars and awards will be given to lowest individual score, lowest team score, best dressed men’s and women’s teams, best hole design and sportsmanship. This year’s theme is NASCAR. Sign up before March 27 at Great Northern Brewing Company or at www.greatnorthernbrewing.com/minimasters.
Run Through History 5K & 10K
When: Sunday, April 9, 1 p.m.
Where: Downtown Kalispell, starting at The Museum at Central School
Dust off the running shoes and prepare for summer with a nice Sunday run through historic downtown Kalispell. The eighth annual Run Through History starts at The Museum at Central School and travels through Woodland Park, passing the Conrad Museum and continues through the historic eastside residential district. The conclusion of the race is at The Hockaday Museum of Art. Participation is $15 for pre-registration and $20 after April 1. Team t-shirts or costumes are welcome and encouraged. An awards ceremony will follow at Kalispell Brewing Co.
Montana Spartan Race
When: May 6-7
Where: Flathead Lake Lodge, Bigfork
Two days of muddy action is planned for Bigfork at the fifth annual Montana Spartan Race. The first day features the Beast, a race that sends competitors over more than 30 obstacles and up to 14 miles. Sunday brings the Sprint, a 4-mile course with 24 obstacles popular among Spartans of all levels from first timers to seasoned racers. Kids races will hit the hills on both Saturday and Sunday. Sign up as an individual competitor or organize a team to tackle the popular obstacle course that was featured on NBC Sports last year.