For Immediate Release
Billings, Mont., Wednesday, April 8, 2026: Visit Billings is announcing the 2026 honorees for the TOAST to Billings: Hospitality Awards – A Tribute to Outstanding Achievement in Service & Tourism, a new celebration recognizing the people and organizations who help make Billings welcoming, memorable, and visitor-ready every day. This year’s recipients include ZooMontana as Attraction of the Year, MontanaFair as Event of the Year, Erika McGrath of Bernie’s Diner at the Northern Hotel as the Heart of Hospitality award winner, and Ricky Martinez of Billings KOA Holiday as the Pride in Place award winner.
“Toast to Billings is about the moments visitors remember and the people who create them,” said Aly Eggart, Executive Director at Visit Billings. “From signature experiences to behind-the-scenes excellence, these honorees represent what hospitality looks like at its best in Billings.”
Attraction of the Year: ZooMontana
ZooMontana is being recognized after an outstanding year of community impact. In 2025, the zoo welcomed more than 190,000 visitors, introduced new resident animals, and continued to provide fun, educational experiences for families and fans of all ages. As Montana’s only zoo and an AZA-accredited institution, ZooMontana meets high standards for animal care and organizational excellence while remaining committed to conservation and community connection. Last year, the zoo reached 7,942 child learners and 4,282 adult learners through educational programming, hosted more than 60,000 event attendees, and benefited from more than 8,900 volunteer hours supporting the animals and grounds.
Event of the Year: MontanaFair
MontanaFair is being honored as a signature gathering that brings Yellowstone County and much of Montana together around agriculture, entertainment, and community pride. With more than 110 years of tradition, the fair continues to celebrate agriculture, youth, and local talent while evolving with new attractions, nationally recognized entertainment, and a premier rodeo experience. The fair also supports nearly 10,000 exhibitors, from 4-H and FFA youth to home arts participants, crafters, and brewers. MontanaFair is a major tourism driver for Billings by concentrating visitor spending across lodging, dining, and retail, and by supporting reinvestment in MetraPark facilities used year-round by the community.
Heart of Hospitality: Erika McGrath, Bernie’s Diner
Erika McGrath is recognized for the kind of genuine hospitality that turns a meal into a memorable Billings experience. A familiar face at Bernie’s Diner, McGrath is known for making guests feel at home, remembering regulars by name, and taking time to connect with visitors who are in town for everything from business travel to family needs. Her nomination also highlights her leadership and compassion for the Bernie’s team in 2025, when she helped support coworkers and guests during a time of loss. McGrath’s dedication, professionalism, and care for others reflect the spirit of hospitality that keeps people coming back.
Pride in Place: Ricky Martinez, Billings KOA Holiday
Ricky Martinez, Maintenance and Grounds Supervisor at Billings KOA Holiday, is being recognized for the pride, professionalism, and consistency that help guests feel welcome the moment they arrive. Martinez has served in his role for the past six years and brings a deep understanding of KOA standards through prior experience with both the KOA franchisor and KOA corporate. His nomination highlights his stewardship of the world’s first KOA, with a commitment to keeping the grounds beautiful, facilities running smoothly, and guest spaces clean, safe, and ready in every season. Known for his positive attitude and people-first leadership, Martinez strengthens team culture while maintaining high standards in the details guests notice most.
All 2026 honorees will be recognized during the Toast to Billings: Hospitality Awards Luncheon on May 6, 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m., at The Pub Station Ballroom. The event occurs during National Travel & Tourism Week (May 3-9, 2026), a week-long celebration showcasing travel’s essential role in driving economic growth, creating jobs and enhancing quality of life across the United States.
Tickets on sale now:
Tickets for the TOAST of Billings: Hospitality Awards Luncheon are now available for purchase at $60 per person, or $400 for a table of eight. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Tickets can be purchased online via this LINK.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
Sponsorships are available for partners who want to help celebrate Billings’ hospitality industry and the people who make our destination welcoming every day. Sponsors will receive recognition leading up to and during the luncheon. For sponsorship details, contact Aly Eggart at alyson@visitbillings.com.
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Visit Billings is the Destination Leadership Organization (DLO) that represents the Billings Tourism Business Improvement District (BTBID) and the Billings Convention and Visitors Bureau (BCVB), in partnership with the Billings Chamber of Commerce. The mission of Visit Billings is to generate room nights for lodging facilities in the city of Billings by effectively marketing the region as a preferred travel destination.
