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About Free Press Fest

Free Press Fest is a dynamic three-day journalism conference event presented by the nonprofit, nonpartisan, public-powered news organization Montana Free Press.

Designed to promote civic engagement, celebrate Montana’s rich culture, and empower attendees to actively participate in shaping the future of our state, Free Press Fest 2025 will feature keynotes, panels, and workshops with thought leaders, policy experts, independent journalists, and engaged Montana citizens.

Free Press Fest 2025 is presented in cooperation with Montana State University

FPF25-ProgramGuide Download

The inaugural Free Press Fest was held at the University of Montana in Missoula in 2024 and featured voices like author Timothy Egan (The Big Burn, A Fever in the Heartland), national campaign advisors Matt Rhodes and Jim Messina, innovative journalists from CalMatters, Coda and Grist, and leading voices for public policy, press freedom, and problem solving in Montana.

This year the festival will take place at Montana State University in Bozeman, September 16–18, and looks to tackle conversations on public vs. private land conservation, shifting media landscapes and the intersection of tech and politics.

Five panelists on stage at Free Press Fest, seated under a large backdrop with festival logos and banners.

A man in a suit speaking on stage during "Free Press Fest 2024," with a banner for the event in the background.

Five panelists seated on stage at a discussion titled “Does Montana’s Education Funding Need an Overhaul?” during Free Press Fest.