MISSOULA — It's a sure sign that summer is almost here: Downtown ToNight has returned to Missoula.
Crowds descended on Caras Park Thursday evening as the 24th season of the popular event kicked off.
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This season will include 13 weeks of community gathering downtown through June, July and August.
"We'd say it's the heartbeat of Missoula for a reason," said Downtown Missoula Partnership marketing and events director Kristen Sackett. "You can feel the pulse at an event like this."
The event was not short of refreshments as it offered beer and lemonade, along with ice cream and açaí bowls to accommodate the warm weather.
If you miss something and want to try it, you have the chance every Thursday this summer, as the same vendors are scheduled to return each week.
But it's not just food and drinks as the 2025 music lineup is stacked and includes many hometown bands like River City Rhythm and MoneyPenny.
The band Blue Point will take the stage next week for the grand opening of the Caras Park river access.
"You get to see people maybe you haven't seen in a while, hang out with family, friends, and just walk away feeling so proud of this amazing community that we have," Sackett said.
At least 2,000 people are expected to enjoy Downtown ToNight.
The Missoula Makers Collective Market is part of that draw, as 30 creators are back in the booth to sell everything from cards to jewelry to original art.
The event isn't just for adults, though, as children's activities are also on the books, but it helps when the Dragon Hollow Playground is just feet away.
The hours for this year's event have been extended. The live music begins at 5:30, but you can enjoy the vendors and market from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m.
"We hope everybody walks away from an event like this just realizing what an amazing community we have and how lucky we truly are," Sackett said.
There are also opportunities to volunteer for Downtown Tonight. You can click here for more information.
