In a valley full of colorful traditions and popular events, the Creston Auction has stood the test of time.
Since 1963, the fundraiser has become a lively spectacle 12 miles east of Kalispell that attracts thousands of gatherers and seemingly every auction item imaginable. The proceeds help support the community’s volunteer fire department.
This year’s 47th annual Creston Auction and Country Fair is April 6-7 on Montana Highway 35.
On Consignment Day, Friday, April 5, organizers will accept items from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the sale grounds in Creston. Items can be consigned, meaning a portion of the sale price goes back to the seller, or donated, meaning all proceeds of the sale go to the fire department.
The main event is Saturday, April 6, and features a daylong auction. With rapid-fire efficiency, the auctioneer usually sells between 75 and 100 items per hour. Expect the list of items to include building materials, household goods, tools, tack, antiques and more. The grounds open at 8 a.m., and admission is free.
Before bidding begins, Ray Mallery and Sons will kick off the event by performing the national anthem at 9 a.m. The opening ceremony will also feature a Civil Air Patrol color guard.
Bid numbers for Saturday’s auction can be purchased for $5. Local arts and crafts will be on sale in the Eastside Grange Hall, and a rummage and bake sale will be held in the Creston School gym. Donated items for the rummage and bake sale are always needed. Hot food will be available all day, including beef sausages, chili and Indian tacos.
On Sunday, April 7, the bidding begins at noon featuring cars, trucks, boats, recreational vehicles, tractors, farm equipment, trailers and other large items. The $10 bid tickets go on sale at 9 a.m. MasterCard and Visa are accepted for auction purchases only, so attendees should bring cash, a check or an ATM card for other purchases.
For more information, visit the fire department’s website and Creston Auction FAQs page at www.crestonfire.org, or call the auction hotline at 406-250-7396.