BILLINGS, MONTANA -- Summer in Montana. Where else would anyone want to be? Exciting western events, historic anniversaries honoring Montana's first citizens and balloon rallies are among the many fun summer events slated for Billings and the surrounding areas of Montana. All events welcome large groups and are ready to accommodate the needs of your motorcoach travelers.

Big Skyfest -- July 30 - August 2, 1998 - The largest hot air balloon event in the Northwest with over 60 colorful and unique hot air balloons decorating the Big Sky of Billings, Montana. The festivities are held at Amend Park (off King Ave. West and South Billings Blvd. at I - 90 Exit 447) with a western - style carnival, craft booths and ground entertainment.The Big Skyfest Kick - Off is held on Thursday with a parade through downtown Billings and balloon displays at Amend Park. Call (406) 245-6294 for more information.

Little Bighorn Days -- June 24 - 28, 1998 - A celebration of cultural heritage takes place in Hardin, Montana during the Little Bighorn Days honoring the anniversary of the historic Battle at the Little Bighorn. The 1876 Grand Ball, Custer's Last Stand Reenactment, and western style street dances evolves the community of Hardin into an international destination. Attend quilt shows, Chuckwagon feeds, parades and the carnival for a taste of western fun. Call (406) 665-1672 for information.

NILE Northern International Livestock Expo and PCRA Rodeo - October 10 - 17, 1998 - Experience world class rodeo action, livestock and trade shows and western entertainment at the MetraPark. Celebrating it's 31st anniversary in Billings, the NILE welcomes everyone into the world of agriculture and western life. Call (406) 256-2495.

Clark Day - July 26, 1998 -- In 1806, Captain William Clark and crew traveled down Montana's Yellowstone River to its confluence with the Missouri River at the Montana/North Dakota border. Just outside of present day Billings, Captain Clark left the only remaining physical evidence of this epic western journey: his signature etched into the sandstone walls of the towering bluff called Pompey's Pillar (named after Sacagawea's son, Jean Baptiste, a.k.a. Pomp). Complete with reenactments, entertainment, and interpretations of the journey, Clark Day honors the historic discovery and signing of Pompey's Pillar. Call (406) 255- 2885.

For more information on events in Billings and the surrounding area, please contact the Billings Convention and Visitors Council at (406) 245-4111or 800 711-2630. Visit our web site at: http://billingscvb.visitmt.com.