The community is invited to celebrate America's 250th birthday during the Freedom Festival, July 3-5, 2026, in Broadus sponsored by the School Community Development Council. The weekend will be packed with reunions, music, food, recreation, and family-friendly activities as residents and visitors come together to honor the nation's semiquincentennial.

Festivities begin Friday, July 3, with self-guided school tours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors should note that access to certain areas of the school may be limited due to ongoing renovation and construction work. Community members can also enjoy the Art & Soul Artisan’s Art Show & Sale at the Henry Malley Memorial Library from 1 to 5 p.m. and register for the Forever Broadus All Class Reunion from 1 to 5 p.m. in the Courthouse Lobby. The first 250 people to register will receive a commemorative gift bag.

Friday evening continues with the musical production "I Declare: Voices of Our Independence" at 6 p.m. in the High School Auditorium. FREE admission. Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of imperfect people gathered in a room to imagine a new nation. This summer, our community will gather to tell their story. Join us as history comes to life through music, storytelling, and the voices of neighbors and friends. Together, we’ll celebrate the enduring ideals of liberty, self-government, and opportunity that continue to shape our nation and our way of life here in Southeastern Montana. The story began in 1776. The celebration continues in Broadus.

Friday evening will conclude with the Stockman's Club Anniversary Party at 7 p.m.

Saturday, July 4, promises a full day of activities beginning with the Powder River Trails Freedom Run at 7 a.m. starting in the Cottonwood Park. Reunion registration continues from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Courthouse Lobby, while the Broadus Bumblebee Daycare pancake breakfast will be served beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the Senior Center.

The annual Chamber of Commerce parade will step off at 10 a.m., with participants lining up at the high school beginning at 9:30 a.m. Following the parade, visitors can browse the Farmer's Market at the Cottonwood Park, tour the Powder River Historical Museum's Reynolds Battlefield Exhibit, which will remain open until 4 p.m, or enter the Best Ball Competition at Rolling Hills Golf Course.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, local groups, youth organizations, clubs, businesses, and families will line the town square with lemonade and refreshment stands throughout the day on July 4. Participants are encouraged to get creative by decorating their stands and offering a variety of beverages, snacks, and treats. The Lemonade Stand Fundraiser provides a fun opportunity for organizations to raise money while contributing to the community celebration and helping create a lively, family-friendly festival atmosphere. Please contact Melissa Billing if you are interested in setting up a “lemonade” stand. If you would like to promote your products or services you are more than welcome to set up a booth around the Town Square also.

Additional activities throughout the day include the Quilt Show at Faith Bible Church from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the Fire Department BBQ beginning at noon. At 1 p.m., attendees can choose between the Broadus Cancer Fund Live Dessert Auction at the Senior Center or the Cottonwood Classic 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament in the park.

The fun continues at 2 p.m. with the Class Olympics at the Courthouse Gazebo. Teams made up of graduates from different decades will compete in a variety of games and challenges, bringing generations together in friendly competition. The day concludes with an Outdoor Concert featuring Jamie Hansen from 9 p.m. to midnight.

Parking Notice: For the safety of festival participants and visitors, parking will not be permitted around the Courthouse Square from noon until midnight on July 4. Attendees are encouraged to utilize available parking areas throughout town and plan accordingly. The temporary closure will help ensure a safe environment for festival activities, pedestrian traffic, and evening entertainment in the downtown area.

The celebration wraps up Sunday, July 5, with a Non-Denominational Church Service at 9 a.m. at the Courthouse Gazebo.

The Freedom Festival is designed to celebrate 250 years of American independence while showcasing the community spirit that makes Broadus special. Residents, alumni, former residents, and visitors are encouraged to attend the weekend's activities, reconnect with friends and classmates, and enjoy a memorable celebration of freedom, history, and hometown pride.

Find full event details at the SCDC Facebook Event Page

Freedom Festival Set to Celebrate America's 250th Birthday in Broadus