Billings summers aren’t just something you hear about…they’re something you experience firsthand. As if bucket-list outdoor adventures, the iconic Rimrock landscape, nearby mountain escapes, and award-winning dining weren’t enough of a reason to spend the season in Montana’s biggest city, Billings also brings one of the most packed summer event calendars in the region.
Big-name concerts, signature summer events, festivals, and America’s 250th celebrations – all under that wide open Montana sky. Here’s your guide to Billings events this July and August. 👇
These festivals, markets, outdoor concerts, and more have become staples of the Billings summer calendar…and for good reason. It wouldn’t be a Billings summer without these events:
Strawberry Festival | July 11
Over 120 vendors fill the streets of Downtown Billings with arts, crafts, food trucks, and live entertainment for one of the city’s most beloved annual traditions.
Big Sky State Games | July 17–19
An Olympic-style amateur sports festival, drawing thousands of athletes and spectators from across Montana and the surrounding region.
Billings Mexican Fiesta & Car Show | July 19
A full-day, 72nd Annual celebration of culture, community, classic cars, music, and dancing in South Park, followed by a Fiesta Dance at Billings Hotel and Convention Center.
Big Sky Balloon Rally | July 23 – 26
Colorful hot air balloons rising over the Yellowstone Valley, plus an evening Field Festival at Amend Park with food trucks, face painting, kids’ activities, a balloon glow, and more!
MontanaFair | August 7 – 15
Billings’ biggest summer tradition returns with nine days of agriculture, livestock shows, PRCA Pro Rodeo, live concerts, carnival rides, and nonstop family fun.
Not only does Billings do summer well – it does it all summer long. Here’s some summer staples you can catch weekly, all season long.
Alive After 5 | Every Thursday through July 30
Downtown Billings transforms into one big summer block party every Thursday with live music, local drinks, food vendors, and thousands of people soaking up the evening June 11 – through July 30th.
Baseball, ballpark food, and warm Montana evenings – the Billings Mustangs play all summer long and are one of the easiest, most enjoyable ways to spend a night in Billings.
Yellowstone Valley Farmers Market | Starting July 18
Fresh produce, baked goods, handmade items, and a great way to spend a Saturday morning in Downtown Billings, running mid-July through October.
Summer nights in Billings come with their own soundtrack. With major artists and big tours coming to town, this year’s concert lineup sounds something like this:
Summer doesn’t fade quietly over here. Mid-to-late August closes out the season with some of the most memorable experiences on the calendar – the kind you’re going to want to plan a trip around.
Rodeo Billings | August 13 – 15
Three nights of world-class outdoor rodeo action at MetraPark during MontanaFair– top PRCA cowboys and cowgirls, elite bucking horses and bulls, and authentic western tradition in the heart of Montana.
Banana Ball | August 20–22
The Banana Ball World Tour is coming to Dehler Park for a three-game series between the Firefighters and Party Animals. Fast-paced rules, continuous play, and an emphasis on pure entertainment make this one of the most highly anticipated events of the summer.
Yellowstone International Airshow | August 22 & 23
The U.S. Navy Blue Angels headline this two-day spectacle at Billings Logan International Airport – precision flying, sky-high thrills, and a patriotic energy that feels especially fitting as America celebrates its 250th anniversary.
From hometown traditions to sky-high spectacles, make it a Billings summer – filled with long days, lively nights, and experiences you can only find here.
