October Events
October in Helena means fall is officially here. The leaves are turning and the air is getting crisp, but there’s still plenty to do around town. From pumpkin patches to fundraisers, local shopping, and crafty fun, see below for all the October events HHT is adding to our calendar.
Painting with Kitties
The Painted Pot is hosting an all-ages evening of painting pottery while cuddling adoptable cats from the Lewis & Clark Humane Society. Registration is $15 plus the cost of a project, with $10 of each fee donated to the shelter, and light snacks will be provided.
Brews & Bears
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and the American Bear Foundation are teaming up to share tips on bear behavior, avoiding conflicts, and using bear spray, whether you’re in the woods, on the water, or at home. The first 30 people to show a hunting license get a free new can. Also $1 from every beer sold supports bear conservation.
Community Night with Boobiecon
Raise a glass with the organizers of Helena’s 2026 Boobiecon! $1 from every beer sold supports breast cancer awareness and Pack the Place in Pink, an all-volunteer Montana nonprofit that gives patients no-strings-attached financial support. With 95 cents of every dollar going directly to patients, every beer makes a difference.
PPLT Harvest Moon Banquet
Prickly Pear Land Trust’s Harvest Moon Banquet and Auction, presented by BlueCross BlueShield of Montana, is the organization’s biggest night of the year, bringing together 500 supporters for dinner, drinks, music, and an auction celebrating land protection and community conservation. Proceeds support PPLT’s mission to connect land and people through conservation, recreation, and education.
Just for the Helena of It
Just for the Helena of It is an annual 5K, 10K, and half marathon in Helena benefiting The Friendship Center and Girls Thrive. The race has raised $121,000 for local charities over four years and returns October 18, 2026.
Big Sky Shows Fall & Art Craft Show
A local show of handmade goods, giving you the chance to shop local and support our community. Admission is $5 and children 12 and under get in free.
Helena Symphony Masterworks Concert
Experience the warmth and elegance of Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings. Acclaimed cellist Ovidiu Marinescu returns as the Helena Symphony’s Composer in Residence.
Little Tykes Trick or Treat
The Chamber of Commerce’s Little Tykes Trick or Treat returns this Halloween!
Pumpkin Patches
It’s that time of year! Nothing says fall like a trip to the pumpkin patch, and Helena has two just a short drive from town. Round up your friends and family and spend a crisp fall day making memories.
Helena in October has so much to offer. Here’s to enjoying the season and supporting the local businesses that make our community special.