'Our Village Festival' celebrates Missoula non-profits before Pearl Jam show

On Thursday, August 22, 2024 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Pearl Jam will host the free 'Our Village' festival.

The event is open-to-the-public — no concert tickets required — in the Riverbowl Tailgate Area to the North of Washington-Grizzly Stadium on the University of Montana's campus.

More than 30 local non-profits will be at the festival; each bringing their own unique activity or display. The event is family-friendly and activities include face painting, lawn games, instrument construction, photo booths, and more.

Pearl Jam is partnering with four nonprofits — Forward Montana, Western Native Voice, Planned Parenthood Advocates of MT, and Montana Conservation Voters — at the festival. These nonprofits seek to help fans join the band in pledging to vote in this year's upcoming election.

The Zootown Arts Community Center (ZACC) is running a stage at the festival which will be emceed by Montana Poet Laureate Chris La Tray. Four local bands — American Falcon, (latent), Calamity Cowboy, and But I’m A Cheerleader — will perform to give attendees a free concert prior to the main Pearl Jam show.

Local food trucks and beverage vendors will be at the festival.

Pearl Jam bassist Jeff Ament, who hails from Big Sandy, MT, shared, “We are excited to be back in Missoula hosting the “Our Village” Festival before the show. Come join us, eat, drink, hear some great local music and meet the folks from some of our favorite local progressive groups. You don’t need a ticket to the show to stop by Our Village. It’s free and open to the public. While you're here you can register to vote, check your status and engage in our democracy.”