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Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions and helpful information about Free Press Fest 2024. Is there something else that you would like to know? Email us at [email protected].
Where and when will the event take place?
Free Press Fest will take place September 5-7, 2024 in Missoula, MT at the University of Montana’s University Center. Sessions will take place in the UC Ballroom, UC Theater, and UC 330-332 breakout meeting rooms.
Where should I stay in Missoula?
The host hotel for Free Press Fest is the AC Hotel Downtown Missoula (Marriott). There is a discounted rate available for conference attendees.
Please reserve your room by August 5 to receive the discounted rate.
Address: 175 N Pattee St, Missoula MT 59802
Phone Number: (406) 549-0119
Room Rate: $209 + tax.
Room availability is limited and first come, first served at the rate listed above.
Browse other options for Hotels and Motels in downtown Missoula from our local tourism partner, Destination Missoula.
Who will be speaking at the festival?
Find a list of speakers and participants, which will be constantly updated here.
Do I need as pass or tickets to attend?
Yes! Pre-registration for Free Press Fest has closed, but you can still purchase all-conference passes and single session tickets at the door.
I am a member of Montana Free Press. How do I get my member discount?
MTFP members receive an exclusive rate on festival passes. Existing members should have received a promo code via email to unlock the discounted rate. Can’t find the promo code? Please email [email protected].
The member discount is available for the All Conference Pass and the All Conference + Roots Fest Package. Visit the registration page to select your pass, provide your pass information and add to your cart. When you view your cart, you can add your coupon code to apply the discount before you purchase!
Not yet a member? Donate today and your membership confirmation email will include the promo code for your discounted rate. As a member, you’ll also support Montana Free Press journalism and have access to year-round member benefits.
Questions? Email us at [email protected].
Where can I find the festival schedule?
The Free Press Fest 2024 schedule can be found here. Doors for each conference session open 30 minutes prior to the scheduled session time.
Will the individual sessions be streamed online?
Yes! Several of the sessions on Sept. 6 will be streamed live. Links to upcoming session streams can be found in the conference schedule. Streams can also be viewed on the Free Press Fest homepage and on the Montana Free Press YouTube channel.
Where do I park on campus?
For Pass Holders: On-campus parking for Free Press Fest Pass Holders is located in the parking structure behind the Mansfield Library on level R-3. If you purchased a pass in advance, proceed to R-3 and your name will be on a list with the attendant at the garage.
All Others: Hourly parking is available in the yellow and green lots indicated on the UM Parking Map. Use kiosks or the Passport Parking app to pay for parking at $1/hour from 7:00am to 5:00pm. You can also purchase a daily parking pass for $8 on the Passport Parking app.
Where do I pick up my badge?
The registration desk is located in the University Center 3rd Floor grand foyer. Please bring a photo ID to pick up your pass!
Registration Hours:
Thursday 9/5 – 4:00 to 8:00pm
Friday 9/6 – 8:00am to 7:00pm
Saturday 9/7 – 8:30am to 12:00pm
At the registration desk you can also buy passes, purchase tickets to individual sessions, and buy Free Fest Fest 2024 merchandise!
Code of Conduct
We respectfully ask all in attendance to abide by all local, state, and federal laws, and by guidelines set forth by Montana Free Press and the University of Montana. Please be courteous to and respectful of all other guests, staff, moderators, and speakers. Facility and event management reserves the right to deny entry or eject anyone, without refund, who displays disrespectful or otherwise inappropriate behavior during Festival events. For emergencies please dial 911. For other assistance please locate festival staff with orange lanyards.