National Montana Day is celebrated on May 3 every year. Montana is the fourth largest state in the U.S. and the 41st state to join the union. The day celebrates the vivid history of the state and its importance in present-day America. Helena is the capital of Montana, and the State is home to legacy politicians, entertainers, farmers, cowboys, and miners. National Montana Day was created to celebrate the Big Sky State and Montanans.
History of National Montana Day
National Montana Day was established to honor Montana and its people. Montana is the land of gleaming mountains, big skies, and many other treasures. Locked in the north with Idaho, the Dakotas, and Wyoming as its neighbors, Montana gets its name from the Spanish word ‘montaña,’ which translates to ‘mountains.’ After decades of brawls between the Indians and the white settlers, Montana was admitted to the Union in 1889. The discovery of silver, copper, gold and other precious metals catapulted Montana to international fame, as it became the home to the largest copper mining company in the world.
The spectacular scenery is one of the main attractions of the state, as a large proportion of the state is managed by the state in the form of national parks and monuments. Montana is now known for its wide-open spaces, friendly people, river rides, scenic vistas, and mountain biking trails. Locals occasionally encounter grizzly bears and other wildlife. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, a little more than a million Montanans live an authentic and slow-paced life. A day’s outing can include the gorgeous mountain tops, somber lakes, and the iconic Glacier National Park.
The 2020 super hit series, “Yellowstone,” reflects the socio-cultural and economic realities of the state. Modern-day Montanans enjoy a vibrant culture and an exhilarating trade market. The state’s major exports to the country include quality agricultural produce, beef, lumberjack, bison meat, and hydroelectric energy. On May 3, locals come together to celebrate the beauty of their state, and tourists from all over the country are invited to enjoy the gorgeous mountain life in the summer.
National Montana Day timeline
The first Montana settlers gather at the stronghold and begin populating the area.
The United States trades most of the land West of the Mississippi River from the French, which includes a major portion of Montana territory.
The United States gains control of the rest of the state from the United Kingdom.
Montana's electorate adopts a new constitution and reframes its legislative assembly.
National Montana Day FAQs
What is Montana best known for?
Montana is best known for its wide-open spaces, mountains, lakes, hiking trails, and the year-round clear sky.
What is the best time to visit Montana?
The summer months of June, July, and August make for the best time to visit Montana. The sunny weather is a perfect time to hike, bike, and travel through the mountains. Those interested in snow activities such as skiing can pick the months between December and March for a visit.
What is the nickname for Montana?
Montana’s official nickname is “The Treasure State” because of its abundant natural resources such as copper, silver, and gold.
How to Observe National Montana Day
Visit Montana
No better time than the month of May to book a bed & breakfast in the mountains of Montana. The scenic views and parks deserve a yearly visit. Excavating, fishing, hiking, biking, hunting, and so much more — the options are endless.
Stream “Yellowstone”
Yellowstone is the perfect show to understand the complex landscape of Montana and the everyday life of Montanans. The epic series channels family issues, succession, and the challenges of owning the biggest ranch in the state.
Honor the Montanans on social media
Have friends from up the hills? It’s time to honor them. Ping them on your social media and write singing tributes for their epic state. Ain’t this a great way to warm yourself up to the locals of the state?
5 Thrilling Facts About Montana
First national park
Montana is home to the Yellowstone entrance, the first-ever national park in the world.
A distinct way with food
Montanans enjoy unique and special oatmeal made of roasted wheat cereal.
The grizzly affair
The state animal of Montana is the grizzly bear.
A land of mammals
Montana is home to the largest variety of mammals in the United States, including bison, elk, and buffaloes.
A stronghold for the livestock
Montana is the center of livestock farming in the U.S., with cattle outnumbering human beings by a dramatic number.
Why National Montana Day is Important
It’s more than just the mountains
Although we love the mountains, Montana is so much more than what it's stereotyped for. The state’s urban landscape, scenic views, near-perfect weather, and rich culture make it a valuable part of the U.S.
It promotes tourism
Tourism is an essential aspect of Montana’s economy. According to the Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research (I.T.R.R.), tourism generates $3.8 billion in new revenue for the state. National Montana Day illuminates the state’s offerings and invites new tourists to get a lay of the land.
It teaches us about the history of Montana
Montana’s rich and diverse culture stems from centuries of assimilation between the native tribes, the British invaders, the French suitors, and the European settlers. On May 3, read all about the vivid history of the state and acquaint yourself with its present-day culture.
National Montana Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | May 3 | Friday |
| 2025 | May 3 | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 3 | Sunday |
| 2027 | May 3 | Monday |
| 2028 | May 3 | Wednesday |
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