Fort Benton Summer Celebration

Montana’s “birthplace” community pays homage to its iconic sheepdog Shep during its 41st annual celebration. The valiant dog, immortalized by a bronze statue, lived out the last five years of his life at the railroad station, waiting for his master, an old sheepherder, to return. Friday’s events include a City Band Concert, pig roast, ice-cream social, pie auction, PRCA rodeo and street dance featuring The Thrillbillies. Saturday brings a fun run, fishing derby, parade, a sidewalk art contest, a street dance featuring Ten Years Gone and fireworks; on Sunday, enjoy biscuits and gravy in Old Fort Park and a concert by Blackfeet troubadour Jack Gladstone. Art on the Levee, S.C. Crafts and Things and free admission to local museums are also part of one of Montana’s favorite small-town festivals.