Document Type
Report
Publication Date
10-2026
Disciplines
Agricultural and Resource Economics | Leisure Studies | Nature and Society Relations | Other Social and Behavioral Sciences | Regional Economics
Abstract
This study was conducted to provide insight into the characteristics, spending patterns, and satisfaction levels of attendees at the 2026 River City Roots Festival in Missoula, Montana. A total of 251 attendees completed the survey. Approximately 85% of respondents were Montana residents, including 72% who resided in Missoula County. Among respondents from outside Missoula County, 74% spent at least one night away from home. Visitors spent an average of 3.9 nights in Montana and 2.9 nights in Missoula. Fifty-six respondent groups from outside of Missoula County provided expenditure information, reporting an estimated $44,397.38 in total visitor spending in Missoula. The largest expenditure categories were lodging and restaurants/bars. Attendees reported high satisfaction with the festival, particularly its location, organization, cleanliness, safety, duration, music, food, and beverages. The results provide organizers with useful information for future event planning, marketing, visitor services, and efforts to maximize the festival’s contributions to downtown Missoula businesses and the broader community.
Keywords
River City Roots Festival, Survey Kit
Rights
© 2026 ITRR
Recommended Citation
Keinath-Lopez, Emma. (2026). River City Roots 2026. Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research, University of Montana. Missoula, Montana. 37p.
Included in
Agricultural and Resource Economics Commons, Leisure Studies Commons, Nature and Society Relations Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Regional Economics Commons