Less than 3 percent of Montana residents identify themselves as members of the LGBT community. The state is sparsely populated, with just over 1 million residents, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, so the demand for gay bars is relatively low, but the demand for tolerance in most cities is very high. There are very few gay bars in the state, but several places have gay-friendly bars, organizations and regular events that raise awareness of LGBT issues. Missoula, Helena and Butte have nondiscrimination ordinances prohibiting discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation.
The Loft Dance Club in Billings is one of the few openly gay bars in Montana. The Loft's motto, "a dance club for everyone," reflects the open and welcoming atmosphere found inside. The Loft is known for wild Halloween parties and has karaoke on the weekends. The Loft opened its doors in 1998 and has been a staple on Billings' 1st Avenue North for over 15 years. The Amvets Club 90 is a gay-friendly bar located on Grand Avenue in Billings. Efforts to increase tolerance in Montana's biggest city include a campaign to pass a nondiscrimination ordinance.
Missoula is home to the Western Montana Community Center, an organization devoted to education about and advocacy for Montana's LGBT community. Located on North Higgins Avenue, the Center organizes several social events, including the Gay Men's Chorus. In Helena, the Center hosts a Men's Sunday Social Group at Blackfoot River Brewery. Though not a gay bar, Plonk Wine Bar is a popular stop for members of the LGBT community in both Missoula and Bozeman.
Every year, members of the LGBT community come together for Montana's Gay Pride Celebration. The three-day event includes a parade, drag show, speakers and workshops. The event moves to a different city every year in an effort to reach all members of the state's population. In 2013, the event was held in Butte, where the parade was followed by a rally at the high school football stadium. Butte's Silver Dollar Saloon, on Main Street, is a bar well-known for its tolerant atmosphere; live bands play every weekend.
The Interchange Festival in Bozeman celebrates diversity every summer. The weekend, filled with concerts, a film festival and garden party, brings awareness to several social issues. The event focuses on eliminating inequality for several groups, including the LGBT community, the homeless, veterans and women. In an effort to include everyone, event organizers arrange for everything from hip-hop to gospel music, from brunch to parades. The goal of the festival is to spark conversation about inequality in Montana communities while fostering an open and accepting environment.
