Join us March 22-24, 2024

All events located at the Choteau Pavilion (204 1st St. NE) and free to the public unless otherwise noted.

If you would like to pre-register (not required), click the link on the top right of the webpage. It is $25 to pre-register, and the fee includes your choice of a water bottle or hat, a tote, 5 raffle tickets, event stickers, and a map of Freezout.

Download a printable copy of the schedule here

***Bird watching at Freezout Lake WMA requires a Conservation License, an annual license purchased through Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks licensing page: https://fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply

Friday March 22

4:00-7:00PM: Meet and Greet. Food trucks providing dinner and beverages for purchase. Educational booths from Montana and nationally based wildlife conservation organizations.

7:00PM: Wings Over Water. This film tells the story of epic journeys of three bird species through the Great Plains on their incredible migration route through the heartland of North America. Shown at the historic Roxy Theatre (25 Main Ave. N).

Saturday March 23

6:30-10:30AM: Free Guided tours of Freezout Lake WMA and vicinity targeting light geese activity in the area. Meet at Choteau Pavilion parking lot for van carpool and caravan options.

10:30AM-5:00PM: Educational booths featuring: Montana WILD, Montana Wildlife Federation, Montana Dinosaur Center, Sun River Watershed Group, Montana Wetlands and Waterfowl, Montana Audubon and Boone and Crockett Club, Ducks Unlimited, Lewis & Clark National Forest, and Teton Conservation District.

1:00-2:00PM: E-bird App Workshop: Taught by Dr. Stella Capoccia, Associate Professor Montana Tech. All skill levels welcome. Please register for the course so we can ensure we have enough instructors. Smart phone, tablet or laptop required! E-Bird Pre-Registration

2:00-3:00PM: Join Kate Davis with Raptors of the Rockies for a lively powerpoint then discussion with 4 of her favorite falcons and owls, Peregrine of course! Kate and Teaching Team birds have provided nearly 2000 programs since 1988, plus presentations around the country. She is the author of 6 raptor books, many available at the event.

3:00PM: Raffle - Great prizes from our sponsors. Vortex Binoculars, Red Ants Pants tickets and more! Must be present to win.

Check out our other Community Events:

10AM-5PM: Choteau Arts Studio Spring Migration Show. Including live music, refreshments, and
activities from 2-5PM. FREE

5:30PM: Doors open for the Old Trails Museum Wild Game Potluck. Museum Fundraiser. Admission is a free will donation. This is a POTLUCK with game and non-game dishes, silent auction, live auction, and 50/50 drawing. Located at the Stage Stop Inn's Rocky Mountain Convention Center.

Sunday March 24

6:30-10AM: Free Guided tours of Freezout Lake WMA and vicinity targeting Light Geese activity in the area. Meet at Choteau Pavilion parking lot for van carprool and caravan options.