The Ultimate Music & Rodeo Weekend: What to Catch at Under The Big Sky 2025
- All Country News
- Jul 7
- 3 min read
As the sun sets behind Montana’s towering peaks and wildflowers sway in the high summer breeze, the Under The Big Sky Festival returns to Whitefish for its sixth year. From July 18–20, the 360-acre Big Mountain Ranch will once again transform into a haven for roots lovers, country music purists, and indie-folk fans alike. With a lineup that balances major star power, emerging voices, and Montana’s own hometown heroes, it’s shaping up to be one of the most soulful, high-spirited weekends of 2025.
Here’s your definitive guide to the must-see artists at this year’s Under The Big Sky, broken down by day.
Friday, July 18: The Redemption Hour
Headliner: The Red Clay Strays
The Southern rockers from Mobile, Alabama, ride into Whitefish on a tidal wave of momentum. After a breakout year fueled by their gritty, gospel-tinged swagger, The Red Clay Strays are ready to bring the fire as Friday’s marquee act. Expect a show full of redemptive anthems and raw energy that will light up the Montana sky.
Don’t Miss: Shane Smith & The Saints
Known for their sweeping harmonies and thunderous live presence, Shane Smith & The Saints return with their trademark blend of outlaw country and emotional storytelling. If their recent shows are any indication, this one will raise goosebumps and dust clouds alike.
Watch For: Oliver Anthony
The “Rich Men North of Richmond” singer-songwriter brings his raw, viral authenticity to Big Sky country. A rare opportunity to catch the lightning-in-a-bottle artist in a festival setting.
Local Love: Kade Hoffman & Tobacco River Ramblers
Whitefish native Kade Hoffman and the Ramblers are setting the tone early with a rootsy welcome that reminds you exactly where you are, Montana, in all its rugged glory.
Saturday, July 19: The Crossroads of Folk and Fire
Headliner: Mumford & Sons
The Grammy-winning British folk-rockers are making Under The Big Sky their exclusive U.S. festival appearance in 2025. From foot-stomping anthems like “I Will Wait” to sweeping ballads, this set promises to be a cinematic high point under the stars.
Don’t Miss: Hailey Whitters
The Iowa-born songbird brings her 'Heartland Cinderella' charm and honky tonk soul to the ranch. Her set is bound to be equal parts rowdy and poignant, just like her acclaimed Raised album.
Rising Fast: Dylan Gossett & Zandi Holup
Texan troubadour Dylan Gossett is riding high on the success of “Coal” and playing to sold-out crowds across the country. Zandi Holup, meanwhile, is the definition of one to watch, with a voice that stirs the soul and a style as fresh as a Montana breeze.
Montana Gems: Give It To ‘Em, Florabelle! & North Fork Crossing
Florabelle brings funky honky tonk soul straight from Missoula, and North Fork Crossing keeps the bluegrass torch burning with high-octane picking and local pride.
Sunday, July 20: The Heart and Soul of the West
Headliner: Tyler Childers
Returning to the ranch after hosting a special benefit concert for the Blackfeet Nation, Tyler Childers stands tall as the poetic heartbeat of Appalachia. His blend of country, gospel, and soul makes for an almost spiritual live experience, a perfect close to the weekend.
Don’t Miss: Wynonna Judd
A true icon. Wynonna’s voice has defined decades of country music, and her appearance at Big Sky is a masterclass in legacy, resilience, and timeless talent.
Rising Stars: Wyatt Flores & Jonah Kagen
Wyatt Flores continues to win hearts with his stripped-down, emotionally honest approach to songwriting, while Savannah native Jonah Kagen brings a tender, indie-leaning sound that carves out space beyond genre lines.
Montana’s Own: Hannah King & Drew Landry & The North Country Ramblers
Whitefish favorite Hannah King returns to the local stage, fiddle in hand and fire in her voice. Drew Landry’s storytelling, backed by the Ramblers, brings a rugged, Northern Rockies sensibility that grounds the festival in its homegrown roots.
More Than Music: Rodeo, Ranch Life & Western Reverie
What sets Under The Big Sky apart isn’t just its jaw-dropping lineup or location, it’s the immersive experience. From barrel racing and bull riding at the three-day rough stock rodeo, to vintage Western wear shopping and local craft eats, every detail feels woven into the fabric of a living, breathing Western symphony.
With Glacier National Park just a short drive away and the spirit of Big Sky country in every chord, Under The Big Sky 2025 promises to be a weekend where music, heritage, and wild-hearted wonder collide.
Saddle up. This one’s not to be missed.
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