Ravalli County Museum’s Bitter Root Day event is a cultural heritage celebration of both the Salish (the original inhabitants of the Bitter Root Valley) and the community that currently resides here. It is centered around two stories about the Montana State flower, the bitterroot. In 1895, by a vote of the public, the Bitter Root became the official state flower of Montana. The same flower, many years ago, saved the lives of the Salish People who were starving. The roots became a staple food that was revered as a gift from the Creator and harvested annually. The Bitter Root Day Street festival takes place the second Saturday of June every year and includes drumming and dancing, with tribal members in full regalia, a display by the People’s Center (the Salish museum), a jerky contest, a recycled craft competition, children’s activities, and local and out of area vendors.

More info on the Ravalli County Museum website: