Aug 16th - The Cherry Festival
Friday, August 15, 2025 — Noon to Until the Party Ends
Check-In at The Bale of Hay Saloon
Virginia City, Montana
Kick off cherry festival weekend with an evening gathering at the historic Bale of Hay Saloon — the oldest standing saloon in Montana! Enjoy sunset views over the hills, cherry cocktails, and good company in one of Virginia City’s most iconic buildings.
Attire: This is Montana — boots or Birks, sundresses or denim, all are welcome. We’ll be on old wood floors and maybe out under the stars, so bring a layer and wear something comfy.
Virginia City is located about 90 minutes from Bozeman and 75 minutes from Yellowstone National Park — a beautiful drive through the mountains and meadows of southwest Montana.
If you don't have a vehicle, a rental is the easiest way to explore nearby towns, trails, and hot springs. You'll want the freedom to roam!
There are limited shuttle services available from Bozeman. Rideshares like Uber/Lyft are rare out here (Let's just say they don't exist.), so we recommend organizing carpools or local transport in advance.
For lodging near the Cherry Festival in Virginia City, MT, consider staying right in town at the historic Fairweather Inn or a local AirBnB, all offering Old West charm and easy festival access. Just a mile away, the Nevada City Cabins provide rustic comfort in restored miner’s cabins, or check into surrounding accommodations at places like Alder, Twin Bridges or Sheridan. For more options, nearby Ennis has cozy stays like the Red Bear Inn and Dream Drift Motel, all within a short scenic drive.
Book ahead! Virginia City can fill up fast in the summer, and nearby Ennis is just 15 minutes away with more options.
Travel with friends. A lot of the local inns, cabins, and historic rentals are perfect for group stays.
Make a weekend of it. Between the festival, the shops, and the scenery, you won’t want to rush. Plan to stay from Friday through Sunday if you can!
Explore the historic wooden boardwalks and 1860s buildings
Take a ghost tour or catch a show at the Opera House or Brewery Follies
Ride the old-timey train to Nevada City
Shop handcrafted goods and antiques
Visit nearby hiking trails or rivers for a nature break
Grab coffee and homemade pastries at The Star Bakery
Eat lunch or dinner at Bob’s Place or Virginia City Cafe
Cool off with ice cream at Virginia City Creamery
Try local brews and cherry cocktails at the Bale of Hay Saloon