Fourth of July Festivities in Ennis, Montana
There is nothing quite like the Fourth of July in Ennis, Montana. With small-town charm, mountain views, rodeo tradition, lake fun, fireworks, and a Main Street parade that brings the whole community together, Independence Day in the Madison Valley is one of the most loved weekends of the summer.
This year’s celebration is especially meaningful as Ennis honors the 90th Annual Fourth of July Parade with the theme “Our Town, Our Story.” For nine decades, the people of Ennis have gathered on Main Street to celebrate independence, community, and the spirit of the American West. The theme is a tribute to the ranching families, fly fishers, local businesses, volunteers, longtime residents, and new faces who all help shape the story of Ennis.
At its heart, “Our Town, Our Story” is a reminder that Ennis is more than a place on the map. It is a community built by the people who live here, work here, raise families here, and carry forward the traditions that make the Madison Valley so special.
2026 Grand Marshals
This year, Ennis is proud to honor Dr. Maura Davenport and Pokey Armitage as the 2026 Grand Marshals.
Dr. Maura Davenport, Montana Physician of the Year, has made a meaningful impact through her care, dedication, and service to the community. Pokey Armitage, a rancher, Ennis supporter, volunteer, and high school sports aficionado, has long been part of the fabric of Ennis.
Both Grand Marshals reflect the heart of this year’s theme. Their contributions, service, and commitment to the community are part of what makes Ennis’ story so special.
Ennis Rodeo
When: July 3–4, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Where: Ennis Rodeo Grounds
The holiday weekend kicks off with the Ennis Rodeo, a long-standing local tradition and a true celebration of Montana’s western heritage. From rough stock events to timed competitions, the rodeo is a favorite for both locals and visitors looking to experience the heart of cowboy country.
7th Annual Ennis Boat Parade
When: Friday, July 3, 2026 at 11:00 AM
Where: Ennis Lake, on the water
Route: Along the north shore of Ennis Lake down to the bridge
The Ennis Boat Parade is a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday from the water. Boats, jet skis, fishing boats, houseboats, canoes, and more are encouraged to join in, decorated in patriotic style. Participants will meet at the northwest corner by the fishing access between 10:30 and 10:45 AM, weather permitting.
No boat? No problem. Spectators can watch and wave flags from the road or Kobayashi Beach while enjoying the festive lake atmosphere.
90th Annual Fourth of July Parade
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026 at 10:00 AM
Where: Main Street, Ennis
Theme: “Our Town, Our Story”
The parade is always one of the biggest highlights of the weekend. Locals and visitors line Main Street to enjoy floats, horses, classic cars, local businesses, community groups, and plenty of red, white, and blue. Arrive early to grab a good spot and enjoy the energy of downtown Ennis before the parade begins.
Ennis Lions Club Picnic
When: Immediately following the parade
Where: Peter T’s Park
After the parade, the Ennis Lions Club Picnic is a great place to gather with friends, family, and neighbors. It’s a wonderful way to continue the celebration and enjoy the small-town community spirit that makes Ennis so special.
Veterans Memorial Ceremony
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026 at 12:00 PM
Where: Veterans Memorial Park
The community will come together at noon for the Veterans Memorial Ceremony, honoring those who have served and sacrificed for our country. This meaningful tradition is an important part of the Fourth of July celebration in Ennis.
Fireworks in Virginia City
When: Saturday, July 4, 2026 at dusk
Where: Virginia City
Note: Pending conditions
End the day with fireworks in nearby Virginia City, weather and conditions permitting. It’s a festive way to wrap up the holiday with family, friends, and a classic Montana summer evening.
Make a Weekend of It
Whether you are spending the day downtown, heading to the rodeo, joining the fun on Ennis Lake, watching fireworks in Virginia City, fishing the Madison, or simply soaking in the mountain views, Fourth of July weekend in Ennis is a reminder of what makes this valley so special. It’s a weekend filled with tradition, community pride, and the kind of Montana lifestyle that keeps people coming back year after year.
If you are visiting Ennis for the holiday, take time to explore the local shops, restaurants, trails, and river access points while you are here. And if the Madison Valley feels like the kind of place you could call home, I would be happy to help you learn more about living, buying, or selling real estate in this beautiful corner of Montana.
Happy Fourth of July from Ennis, Montana!
To see the Ennis Chamber of Commerce events, please click here.
