For Immediate Release
BILLINGS, Mont. – The largest youth sports event in Billings is back and bigger than ever this weekend, as Big Sky Volleyfest returns for its 12th year May 1-3, 2026. A record 321 teams will flood into the city, playing on 43 courts across 14 different venues, centered at the Metrapark Expo Center.
Big Sky Volleyfest will feature teams from seven states and two Canadian provinces, drawing thousands of athletes, coaches and families to Yellowstone County. The event has become a major economic boost for Billings, with a projected $3 million direct impact through lodging, dining, shopping and other visitor spending. Participatory Sports Tourism, driven primarily through youth and amateur events like Big Sky Volleyfest, generated $60.1 billion in direct spending in 2025 according to the latest Sports ETA State of the Industry Report released last week. That actually outpaced fan-driven Spectator Sports Tourism, which generated $51.1 billion in direct spending.
“Big Sky Volleyfest has become a cornerstone Billings event,” said Visit Billings sports tourism director Casey Conlon. “It is one of the most highly regarded and competitive volleyball tournaments in the northern Rockies, and it has brought millions of dollars into the community over the last decade. Its positive impact can’t be overstated.”
“What makes Big Sky Volleyfest special is the way the community supports it,” said Volleyfest tournament director Craig Allred. “It creates a space for athletes to compete, but just as importantly, it brings people together. The turnout, the help, and the consistency of that support are what keep it growing. It is my favorite week of the year, and we are very grateful for all who help to make this such a great event.”
The excitement begins Friday night at 8:00 p.m. with a showcase boys volleyball match on the Scheels Championship Court inside the Expo Center. For more information, including scheduling and ticketing, visit www.BigSkyVolleyfest.com.
Media Contact: Craig Allred Tournament Director, Big Sky Volleyfest 406-670-6559
info@bigskyvolleyfest.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.
