The town of Bigfork is a picturesque and charming place. Chosen as "One of the 50 Great Towns of the
Located at 2,900 feet above sea level, the small village of Bigfork sits beside a sparkling blue bay where the wild, white waters of the Swan River run into the Flathead Lake. With more than 180 miles of shoreline, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, providing visitors a playground for fishing, boating and all varieties of water sports. For its elevation a
nd latitude, Bigfork and The Flathead Valley have a relatively mild climate, and can best be described as an area of climatic transition between coastal and continental. The high mountains of the Continental Divide at the east provide protection from the Great Plains climate while the mountains to the west interrupt passage of the Great Basin Climate found in Spokane. In addition, water surfaces associated with the many existing lakes and rivers tend to moderate temperatures in both winter and summer. The weather ranges from moderately dry summer and autumn to a moderately wet winter and spring. Annual precipitation in the Flathead averages 20.27 inches of rain and 49.0 inches of snow
The greatest gift you can give to a small business owner is the gift of shopping local! Your support is more than transactions; it's an endorsement of dreams, passion, and community. Thank you for being a champion of our local businesses. Wishing you a Merry Christmas
It's New Member Monday and we are welcoming Seth Price and his new Farm Bureau office located in Twin Birch Square next to SakeToMe Sushi. Farm Bureau is a multi-line insurance company, serving the needs of individuals, families, and businesses. Join us for the Ribbon Cutting Seth Price Farm Bureau Insurance on December 19th at 5:30pm to help us welcome this new office!
We have a winner! The word was Collaborate. We ❤️ when our members Collaborate.
Guess the word & win! Other than networking, what is a Chamber of Commerce's favorite word? We will give you a hint, the new businesses in the poster below are doing it for tonight's Shopping Spectacular!
The first person who guesses correctly will win a Mini Tuning Fork Session from Aiology works, a B12 Immunity Boost Shot from Innate Naturopathic, and a 15 minute Mini Massage Session from Amanda Weller at Healing Therapeutics & Massage!
Okay Bigfork, it is time to go! The Valley Wide Bell Ringing Competition is on Friday! Time to show the Flathead Valley who gives the most.
Stop by Harvest Foods, Friday, December 8th from 10-6 pm to donate or donate to our Virtual Kettle here: https://give-nw.salvationarmy.org/fundraiser/5087142
We all know how much Bigfork gives, it's time to show everyone else.
A few photos from the Parade of Lights on Saturday! We would love to see your photos in the comments.
Thanks to our generous sponsors, we will be announcing the float winners in our Bigfork Happenings email on Thursday! Jennifer Hargett, Daily Inter Lake, Bigfork Eagle, Heather Howlett Safeguard Insurance.
Also, thank you Steve Mitchell & John McCaslin for your the photos.
Did you know that when you choose the Bigfork license plate when registering your vehicle you are support the Community Foundation For A Better Bigfork and the Bigfork Area Chamber of Commerce?! Such an easy way to show your love for Bigfork.
A fun and easy way to support our community is to put Bigfork plates on your cars and trucks. Let’s show some Bigfork spirit!
Hey there all you hard working parents, The Yellow Bridge Road Learning Center has openings in their preschool program. How great is it to know that your child is in a safe, and fun, learning environment?! And, they accept Best Beginnings Scholarships.
Let's spread some holiday cheer! Just for fun, what's your all-time favorite Christmas gift? Not necessarily the priciest or grandest, but the one that melted your heart, cracked you up, or just hit the perfect spot.
It is New Member Monday and we proud to welcome Britt McGillivray and Mountain Town Appraisals to the Bigfork Chamber as she celebrates one year in business!
Many of you may already know Britt, she has been a longtime supporter of all things Bigfork including the Bigfork Monday Markets, Bigfork Innovations Groups, and the Bigfork Chamber. Please join us in welcoming her in her new role as a Certified Residential Appraiser offering property valuation services to private parties and financial institutions. You can find out more about the appraisal services offered through Mountain Town Appraisals at www.mtntownappraisals.com or give Britt a call at 406-212-2464.
Looking for that perfect gift? Join us on December 7th from 5-8pm for the Shopping Spectacular! Every store in Montana's Christmas Village is a treasure trove of unique finds and every purchase a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that makes Bigfork so special. Every item, on every shelf, is a labor of love, handpicked by passionate owners, ensuring that it is not just a purchase but the perfect gift waiting to be unwrapped.
Christmas is in the air in Bigfork and tonight marks the Grand Opening of the Whistling Wonderland Christmas themed pop up bar at Andy's Crafthouse! While we do not know what all they might have in store, we do know this has been in the works for quite a while. Swing by between now and December 31st for a magical experience with Christmas themed cocktails.
It's Grand Opening of Whistling Wonderland today at the crafthouse! We've eagerly awaited this moment, and the time is finally here. Join us at our Christmas Themed Pop-Up bar for a magical experience featuring Christmas-themed cocktails, each crafted with the finest Montana-made spirits from distilleries across the state. Let the festive spirits flowing!
Save the date & mark you calendar for the Shopping Spectacular - Thursday, December 7th, 5-8pm. More than 20 locally owned businesses will be open with everything you need to wrap up your holiday shopping.
Atelier
Electric Buffalo Gallery
Sault MT
Montana 35
Nancy O's Interiors
Bigfork Art & Cultural Center
Mady & Max
Montana Scene
FoR Fine Art Gallery
S.M. Bradford Co. Bigfork, Montana
Eva Gates Homemade Preserves
Thorsen Gallery
Fiber LLC
Artisan's Gallery
The Artful Kitchen
The Creek
Bee's Knees Mercantile
Mountain Vibes Bigfork
The Good Stuff Botanicals
Electric Avenue Gifts
Riecke's Bayside Gallery
Ribbon Cutting at Bee's Knees Mercantile! They are there for the open house until 7 tonight.
It is GivingTuesday and our friends at the Community Foundation For A Better Bigfork have a small ask. Please take a moment to email [email protected] and share a few words on why you choose to support the Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork.
Donations are appreciated as well!
"We support the CFBB because it is the backbone of our village and community of wonderful people. The beauty and small town charm of the area draw people to visit, but we live here because of the people. And the Foundation represents the very best in community leaders that work so hard to ensure the needs of our village, and the greater Bigfork area, remain in harmony with our growing community."
Jim & Patti Lafferty
The Jewel Basin Center
Today is Giving Tuesday—a day that re-imagines a world built upon shared humanity and radical generosity. It is a day about the power of giving. Whether it's making someone smile, helping a neighbor, or supporting causes close to your heart, you have the ability to make a significant impact!
We believe you embody the spirit of generosity and have the power to inspire positive change. That's why we invite you to share your story with us!
Please take a moment to email [email protected] and share a few words on why you choose to support the Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork. Your perspective can inspire others and we would like to share it on BetterBigfork.org.
But that's not all. This Giving Tuesday, we are hoping you might consider doubling the impact of your generosity by making a donation to the Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork. Your contribution, no matter the size, directly supports our initiatives and projects that make a tangible difference in the betterment of Bigfork.
To make your Giving Tuesday donation, please click the link below. Your support today will contribute to a brighter and better Bigfork tomorrow.
“The CFBB is dedicated to the betterment of Bigfork. They promote projects and programs that have a positive impact for years to come. Their board of directors and donors are passionate about our community, and they continually work to protect all that is special about Bigfork while also shining a light on where work is needed."
Jill Parish
President, Glacier Bank of Bigfork
https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLEWDTGDHCD71/checkout/D2D4H2MBKNPVV7X5LKHP474C
We have a New Member Monday, happening on a Tuesday, to let you know what is going on on Wednesday so, without further ado, please join us in welcoming Bee's Knees Mercantile to the chamber and help us really welcome them to Bigfork tomorrow at their Grand Opening from 5-7pm!
Bee's Knees Merch features locally curated artisan crafts and apothecary goods for your holistic wellness and homestead journey. They are located in the Bigfork Station Building, downtown, right behind Sugar & Spice Ice Cream Shop.
It's New Member Monday and there is a new groomer in town! Please join us in welcoming Shiner and Friends to Bigfork. They are located on the ground floor of the Branding Iron Station building.
If you, and your fur baby, have not been in yet, you are missing out! Not only will they get your pup looking (and smelling) fantastic for the holidays, they also carry pet odor eliminating candles and apparel for all the dog lovers on your list.
You can book appointments online and be sure to follow them on Facebook for your daily dose of doggy cuteness!
Come see us at Pure West Real Estate downtown to get your Shop Small Saturday and Bigfork Bingo card. We are here from 10-2 today.
What local business are you supporting today?
Come see us at Pure West Real Estate downtown to get your Shop Small Saturday and Bigfork Bingo card. We are here from 10-2 today! .
This Thanksgiving, we extend our deepest thanks to the heartbeat of our community – our incredible businesses and their dedicated teams! Their dedication and commitment shape our community.
Wishing everyone a joyous Thanksgiving filled with appreciation and togetherness.
Switching seasons...photo dump from Trick-or-Treating on Electric Avenue !
New Member Monday has us officially welcoming Amanda Weller & Healing Therapeutics & Massage to Bigfork. Amanda is located in the A-frame on Highway 35, just north of El Topo. With a background in physical therapy she understands the human body, especially when it comes to recovery from injury, surgery, trauma, etc. Be sure to visit her on Small Business Saturday for Buy One, Get One 1/2 off on gift certificates!
7985 Highway 35
(406) 697-0838
Healing Therapeutics & Massage specializes in: Cupping/myofascial release, gua-sha, or use of specific tools (IASTM), used for scar tissue mobilization and tendonitis. Trigger point therapy for TMJ symptoms, neck, back, shoulder pain and limited range of motion (including rotator cuff repair and frozen shoulder). Relief for migraines and tension headaches. Techniques for symptoms of sciatica, carpal tunnel & thoracic outlet syndromes (symptoms in extremities such as numbness, tingling, shooting pain in hands, legs and feet). Treatment of degenerative or herniated disc.
Looking for something to do until the Holiday Art Walk and Tree Lighting? Head over to Buffalo Saloon and Casino for their Sip & Shop wine tasting and get a head start on your holiday shopping.
Calling all Elves! Join us for one of the most magical days in Bigfork - tomorrow at 8am infront of the Bigfork Inn!
Calling all Elves! Join us for one of the most magical days in Bigfork - tomorrow at 8am infront of the Bigfork Inn!
The Bigfork Elves are an army of volunteers who have been around for more than 40 years and they are looking for new recruits. New volunteers start with no rank but quickly progress from Lieutenant to Captain to Major and ultimately to General with each year of service. Who can be an Elf? Absolutely anyone! Bring your family and friends to Bigfork to partake in this beautiful tradition; all you need are warm clothes, gloves, and a touch of Christmas spirit.
The magic continues at 4pm when the shops, galleries, and boutiques invite you in for their Holiday Art Walk. This is an opportunity for young and old to stroll through town, taking in the freshly hung lights and garland while enjoying wine, treats, and specials. Bigfork, named one of the best art towns in the northwest, is brimming with robust small businesses stocked with unique and thoughtful holiday gifts.
The day concludes with the tree-lighting ceremony at 7pm. Family, friends, strangers, and neighbors gather around the giant tree in front of Bjorge's Gallery to sing Christmas carols. Children of all ages are then called up front for a reading of The Night Before Christmas. The entire evening is like a scene from a Hallmark Christmas movie and so quintessentially Bigfork, it is sure to become one of your holiday traditions.
Who do you call when you have a Christmas tree emergency two days before the treelighting ceremony? Sliters Lumber & Building Supply of course! Big shout to Dave, moving a 30' tree around is no easy feat! Also thank you to Trees for Life for their acquisition efforts & Julie at Bigfork Art & Cultural Center. It takes a village people!
We weren't joking when we said they were legends in the making...The Gibson Boys and their floppy-eared sidekick Rustle have harvested the title of Best in Show for the Scarecrows of Bigfork, sweeping the competition like a fall breeze through the fields. Hats off to George and Shauna Gibson, and Gibson Architecture, for their scarecrow mastery!
The Gibson Boys, legends in the making, are well known throughout Bigfork for their love for the outdoors and a knack for mischief. Growing up here, their days are filled with fishing in the Swan River, picking huckleberries, jumping off the single lane bridge and all the rough-and-tumble antics that make up the quintessential childhood in Bigfork.
Their trusty companion in these exploits is none other than a floppy-eared dog named Rustle. Rustle runs through the woods with the boys, chasing sticks, barking at squirrels, and eagerly awaiting the next adventure. Together, the trio explores all there is to see, traversing every trail and turning every stone.
As the sun sets on the day, the Gibson Boys and Rustle bring their wild tales home, refusing to let the journey end! With scabbed knees and scraped elbows, they continue their adventures with a book from ImagineIf Libraries - Bigfork Library Branch. The stories transport them to far away lands, introducing them to characters as wild as themselves. The Library acts as a magical portal where the Gibson boys become cowboys, astronauts, and brave knights on epic quests—all before bedtime. Thus, the Bigfork legends continue to grow, one chapter at a time, with Rustle leading the charge and ImagineIf Library as the keeper of their most fantastical stories.
Shout out to Gibson Architecture and George & Shauna Gibson for sharing the Gibson Boys' adventure with us. You can vote for the Gibson Boys until Friday, October 27th, here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/dcvgIrP/scarecrowvoting
Clear the fields and roll out the red carpet because we've got a celebrity in town! The Scarecrow Formerly Known as Prince has been awarded the "Bale"board of Music Award for the most creative scarecrow in Bigfork! TSFKAP will be on stage at Kelly's Casino for a few more weeks!
Rustle up the excitement because Sunny the Scarecrow Harvest has been crowned the Most Traditional Scarecrow in the Scarecrows of Bigfork competition! Huge congrats to Eva Gates Homemade Preserves for bringing this charming character to life!
On Electric Avenue, where the historic Eva Gates Homemade Preserves has tantalized taste buds for nearly 100 years, a quieter tale unfolds—the story of Sunny Harvest Preserves. Watching the acclaim surrounding Eva's renowned jams, Sunny the Scarecrow Harvest thought, "Well, crafting world-famous jams can't be that challenging." Convinced that if people loved Eva's huckleberry, strawberry, and raspberry jams, they'd surely crave the fall flavors of acorn, butternut squash, and cornstalk jam. As such, Sunny set out on a mission.
With a heart full of determination and a burlap sack brimming with the autumn harvest, Sunny toiled tirelessly in the quaint kitchen behind the Dockstader barn. The air was filled with scents of pumpkin, Brussels sprouts, and maple leaves, as Sunny experimented with recipes to capture the essence of fall in a jar.
Days turned into nights as Sunny carefully selected the finest ingredients, stirred bubbling pots, and filled the shelves with jars adorned in rustic charm. The scarecrow's dedication was unwavering, fueled by the belief that the world was ready for these fall-inspired flavors. Alas, Sunny had to acknowledge that only the crows that pestered her showed interest in these unique creations.
Sunny Harvest, recognizing the truth of the situation, decided that her time was best spent spreading the word about how Eva Gates Preserves remained the true champions in the world of jams. Sometimes, even a scarecrow understands the importance of letting the original shine.
Vote for Sunny here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/dcvgIrP/scarecrowvoting
Drum Roll Please..the Funniest Scarecrow of Bigfork Award goes to Patrick Gru-checo and The Realty Rascals!
Good job to the crew at Clearwater Montana Properties - Bigfork!
Once upon a time, in the far off land of Freedonia, there were four mischievous minions - Broch, Tori, Laurie, and Patricia. These minions had an uncanny knack for finding themselves on the wrong side of master’s patience. Despite being fired multiple times for their chaotic antics, they were always rehired.
One fateful day, however, the master had had enough. Maybe it was the banana peel trail leading to his secret lair or the impromptu dance party in his office. Whatever the reason, the four minions found themselves officially unemployed. Unfazed by the pink slips, they decided to vacation in Bigfork, Montana. Under the single-lane bridge the minions initially reveled in what should have been an idyllic daily routine. But chaos was their nature, and without a boss to control them, things quickly went haywire.
Realizing the peril of the situation, Patricia seized control, pulling her fellow minions up Electric Avenue until they abruptly halted. Their eyes widened at the sight of a giant fork in Twin Birch Square, and they erupted into a frenzy, mistaking it for a colossal silver banana.
When reality struck, they began to spiral out of control. That was when Minion Laurie, spotted Patrick Gru-checo, a realtor with Clearwater Montana Properties - Bigfork. Thinking fast on their three toed feet, the minions rushed to him, hoping he might become their new master.
Patrick Gru-checo, tried shooing them away but minions are known to be persistent, and he was eventually overcome by their distinct personalities -especially Laurie’s. And while, on most days, Patrick Gru-checo is not the supervillain boss they are used to, the minions are quite happy and the office is filled with Minonese, and the occasional impromptu dance party.
Well folks, the polls have officially closed in the Scarecrows in Bigfork and the ballots have been counted. The official results will be posted in the Bigfork Happenings this Thursday but we need to give a shout out to our friend Rehab Ron, who, along with River Bend Physical Therapy & Preventative Care managed to 'harvest" the most votes across all categories, placing 2nd or 3rd in each one. In honor of Ron's efforts, we would like to officially award him the "Close But No Straw-gar" Award!
If you do not get the Bigfork Happenings email, you can sign up for it by visiting Bigfork.org and signing up on the bottom of the home screen.
The Bigfork Viking Football team is gearing up for battle under the Friday Night Lights against their rivals in Frenchtown. However, a absence looms over the team—they are missing their starting scarecrow quarterback, Rehab Ron.
Ron, succumbed to an unfortunate accident during practice the last week. It was routine drill involving punting pumpkins. Ron, in an attempt to show off his gourd-sending skills, found himself tangled in a web of vines and took a tumble.
The news spread faster than a gust of wind through the Tamarack trees, and concern gripped the hearts of Viking fans. Is their beloved scarecrow be sidelined for the rest of the season? Fear not, with determination rivaling the fiercest warrior, Ron hobbled into River Bend Physical Therapy & Preventative Care and will be out of his walking boot and crutches in time for playoffs!
On Electric Avenue, Halloween is like the Super Bowl of sugar rushes. Kids buzz with anticipation, and the merchants are preparing to unleash a candy storm that rivals W***y Wonka's factory. It's practically Christmas morning, but with more zombies and fewer fruitcakes.
Right in the middle of this Halloween chaos is Harvey, the bank teller in training at Glacier Bank in Bigfork. He is grateful to have gotten a job there, knowing that at Glacier Bank commitment to the community is as important as counting cash.
Now, here's the tricky part. Harvey has to work until 5, but his kiddo Harvey Jr. bursts out of school at 3:15, ready to dive into the Halloween madness. No worries! Ace, the big boss over at Bigfork ACES, steps in. Harvey Jr. can pounce across the street to ACES, where Ace and the gang take their job seriously—seriously fun, that is!
Bigfork ACES isn't just a daycare; it's a place of reading, adventures, art, and enough fun to make W***y Wonka jealous. Ace ensures that Harvey's little pumpkin is in top-notch hands until Dad gets done at work.
As the clock strikes 5, Harvey trades his bank vest for a superhero cape. With Harvey Jr. by his side, the duo hits the streets of Bigfork, ready to conquer the trick-or-treat circuit and bring home a bounty of candy.
8155 Mt Highway 35
Bigfork, MT
59911
| Monday | 10am - 2pm |
| Tuesday | 10am - 2pm |
| Wednesday | 10am - 2pm |
| Thursday | 10am - 2pm |
| Friday | 10am - 2pm |
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Ribbon Cutting at Bee's Knees Mercantile! They are there for the open house until 7 tonight.
Homecoming in Bigfork. Let's go Bigfork Viking Football.
What an amazing event! If you haven't yet, be sure to stop in Nimble Goat Pub and try Golden Triangle Brew Co. beers for yourself. Welcome to Bigfork Brandon & Stacia!
Such a great Ribbon Cutting & Open House at State Farm! Welcome Katie & team to Bigfork. We are glad you are here.
Hey Bigfork, you are missing one of the last great summer nights at Lake Baked with Big Sky City Lights...get down here!
Enjoying a bit of rain and music at The Nest on Swan River with Mike Murray Duo.
Homemade huckleberry (and apple, peach, chokecherry, raspberry, strawberry & more) preserves can be found at Eva Gates Homemade Preserves. They have been making small batch goodness, using the original recipe, since 1949. Share a bit of Bigfork tradition this holiday. They will happily arrange and ship baskets to all your friends and family who love Montana.
Bigfork Bay Gifts has 25% off storewide for #smallbusinesssaturday. If you can't find what you are looking for here, you are not trying hard enough!
Roma's Gourmet Kitchen Store is packed full of gifts for the chef in your list. One of our top picks is a dinner night basket. Select a beautiful bowl or cutting board, add some artisan pasta, a unique infused oil or vinegar (along with a handy recipe card) and you have a perfect gift for almost anyone.
So many gifts S.M. Bradford Co. Bigfork, Montana and they have 35% off jewelry today. Go in, take a peek and you will be pleasantly surprised.
There is so much to see Electric Avenue Gifts, including an entire, year round Christmas room downstairs. #smallbusinesssaturday sales include 20% off artificial greenery, wreaths and picks and 25% off Christmas cards.
At Electric Buffalo Gallery, they have 20% off jewelry today. Stop in!
Good morning from Lake Baked. We are picking up some fresh, hot, hand pies to give away to shoppers for #smallbusinesssaturday. See you on Electric Avenue.
