On Saturday, July 19, Carroll College once again played host to one of Montana’s most anticipated summer traditions, the Helena Symphony’s 21st annual Symphony Under the Stars. Close to 12,000 people gathered on the Guadalupe lawn for an evening filled with live music, shared community spirit, and stunning summer skies.
Presented by the Helena Symphony and sponsored by Intrepid Credit Union, this year’s theme, Icons, paid tribute to American music legends like Elton John, Aretha Franklin, and Elvis Presley. With the orchestra kicking off at 8:30 pm, attendees enjoyed a full evening of nostalgia and celebration capped off by a spectacular fireworks display set to “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.”
Carroll College is proud to have generously hosted Symphony Under the Stars free of charge since its inception, offering not only its scenic hilltop campus but also the time and dedication of its staff and volunteers. Planning for the event spans several months and involves significant coordination to ensure a memorable and safe experience for all. This year included an expanded safety and security effort to support the large crowd and enhance guest wellbeing, a major behind-the-scenes effort led by Carroll College Director of Campus Security and Public Safety Jay Nelson.
Food vendors lined the venue, with local favorites like Cheddar’s Gourmet Grilled Cheese, Blackfoot River Brewing Company, and Old Fashioned Kettle Corn serving hundreds of guests. But the evening wasn’t just about music, it was about giving back.
Helena Food Share collected non-perishable food donations throughout the evening. Thanks to the generosity of attendees, this year’s event is Helena Food Share’s largest food drive of the year, with more than 17,000 pounds of food donated to support those facing hunger in the Helena community.
Although free to attend, donations are encouraged as this year’s event cost nearly $200,000 to produce. “This concert is one of the most popular events in the state,” said Helena Symphony Conductor and Music Director Allan R. Scott. “We’re grateful for all the donations and help that make it possible. We want to continue bringing joy and music to Helena.”
Carroll College extends heartfelt thanks to the Helena Symphony, Intrepid Credit Union, community sponsors, vendors, staff, volunteers, and every guest who helped make this year’s Symphony Under the Stars such a special evening. View photos from the evening at facebook.com/carrollcollege.
Until next year, Helena!