
1 The Ellen Theatre
Address: 17 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 585-5885
SCREENING VENUE
Opened in 1919 and designed by renowned architect Fred Willson, the historic Ellen Theatre transports visitors to an era when theaters were grand palaces of entertainment. Built by the sons of Bozeman founder Nelson Story and named for their mother, Ellen, the theater hosted silent films, variety shows, concerts, and vaudeville performances by stars such as Vivian Vance and Edgar Bergen. After decades of decline as modern media reshaped entertainment, the beloved landmark was ultimately saved through the efforts of local nonprofit Montana TheatreWorks, preserving its role as a centerpiece of Bozeman’s cultural life.

2 The Rialto - Tinworks
Address: 10 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 404-7911
BOX OFFICE LOCATION & SCREENING VENUE
Rialto Box Office Hours:
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Sept. 28-30, 2:00-6:00 pm;
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Oct. 5 & 7, 2:00-6:00 pm;
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Oct. 08, 3:00-7:00 pm
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& during the festival.
The Rialto has long been a gathering place in downtown Bozeman, evolving from its early days as a peanut stand and post office into a theater in 1924 that hosted silent films, indie screenings, and live performances reflecting the city’s changing cultural life. After closing in 2005 and sitting quiet for more than a decade, the historic building was carefully restored and reopened in 2018. Today, in partnership with Tinworks Art, the Rialto is entering a new chapter as a year-round cultural space supporting art exhibitions, artist talks, residencies, performances, and community gatherings, while also serving as a welcoming venue for mission-aligned events and rentals—continuing its legacy as a place where creativity, conversation, and community come together.

3 Tune Up at The Armory
Address: 24 W Mendenhall St, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 551-7702
PANELS & SCREENING VENUE
Tucked beneath a historic Bozeman hotel, the Tune Up is a speakeasy-style gathering place where live music, history, and community come together. Once the National Guard’s original military band room—an origin that inspired its name—the space still honors that legacy with a 1941 Guard sign, historic photographs, and local artwork. Today it’s a lively hub for both locals and visitors, featuring free live music four nights a week, exceptional drink specials, and elevated pub fare. From the soulful sounds of local musicians to the vibrant atmosphere of the basement venue, the Tune Up offers an authentic Bozeman experience where creativity thrives, friendships form, and the rhythm of the town plays on each night.
OCTOBER 8–11, 2026
BFF Venues & Map

4 The Baxter Hotel Ballroom
Address: 105 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 582-1000
KICK-OFF CELEBRATION- BALLROOM
(SECOND FLOOR- EVLEVATOR & STAIRS IN THE LOBBY)
The Baxter Hotel is a historic landmark built in 1929 that has been renovated to include the finest amenities while still preserving the elegant craftsmanship of the original architecture. Due to its local significance, sophistication, and convenient location, the hotel has been home to many memorable moments – ranging from weddings to special events, to great meals and fine dining. The hotel is also home to thriving local businesses and residents.

5 The AC VIP Lounge
Address: 110 N Tracy Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 602-1072
PASS HOLDER VIP LOUNGE
Pass holders can stop in for a cup of coffee or a snack. It is a place to gather, reflect on great films, meet filmmakers, and build connections.

6 Studio Noble
Address: 133 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715
Phone: (406) 624-6062
FILMMAKERS SOCIAL
Artist: Kevin Noble, Bozeman Studio.
