July 9, 2002--Billings, Mont. Summertime in Billings, the “Magic City,” is a beehive of activity, buzzing with Old West and New West excitement. From western military reenactments and contemporary art festivals to a colorful balloon fest, Billings hosts a special variety of events drawing people from around the country. Whether families or large groups, Billings is always ready to accommodate the needs of guests. Large groups are encouraged and parking is available for motorcoaches at each of the following events.

Custer’s Last Stand Reenactment--June
A lively production portraying the trial of General George Armstrong Custer...or at least what his trial would have been like had he survived the battle. Five performances of Custer’s Last Stand Reenactment draw nearly 50,000 visitors from around the country and internationally. Each year in Hardin, Montana (45 miles south of Billings) over 200 actors gather to reenact the events of the famous Battle of the Little Bighorn on the third weekend in June nearest the actual battle date. Throughout the weekend visitors also enjoy various traditional Native American experiences including Little Big Horn Days which features authentic Native American cuisine, a quilt show, traditional and contemporary musical entertainment, and street dances, as well as a colorful parade. In addition to the weekends’ events, visitors have the opportunity to attend the 1876 Military Ball in which participants dress in period costume and immerse themselves in the entertainment of that time.

Summerfair--July 20-21, 2002
Spend a day under Montana’s big sky enjoying fine arts and crafts, children’s activities, continuous entertainment and concessions on the campus greens at Montana State University-Billings. Join the Yellowstone Art Museum and the city of Billings for a weekend full of festivities and fun at Summerfair, held on the campus of Montana State University-Billings. Gates open at 10:00am both days and admission is free for this outdoor arts and crafts fair, with items available for purchase throughout the two day event. This juried arts and crafts fair features over 100 of the nation’s most accomplished artisans, hand selected for this unique event. At 6:00pm on Saturday, July 20th enjoy an outdoor concert featuring live entertainment by “The Drum Brothers” with John Hermann as the opening act. Don’t miss this great weekend of fun at the Yellowstone Art Museum’s Summerfair, the region’s largest juried art and crafts festival. This is the perfect opportunity for groups to experience and take part in one of Billings’ unique annual events.

SkyFest--August 1-4, 2002
Spectators will be awestruck when they see the big sky of Montana filled with over 60 uniquely shaped and brilliantly colored hot air balloons during the largest balloon event in the Northwest, SkyFest. With international attendance and participation, this is a must see event while visiting Billings. Designed to accommodate groups of all sizes, activities begin with a downtown parade and barbecue, a western-style carnival, displays at Centennial Park, booths, games, petting zoo for the kids and musical entertainment for everyone to enjoy. Groups, both large and small alike, are welcomed and encouraged to participate in the fun-filled activities during this one-of-a-kind event.

There are many reasons to bring groups to this area to enjoy the culture, history and fun only Billings can offer. There is surely no other place that offers the entertainment and events accompanied by extraordinary Western hospitality, like Billings.

For more information on unique Billings events and entertainment for groups, please contact Rhonda Harms at the Billings Convention and Visitors Council at 406-245-4111 or visit their web site at http://billingscvb.visitmt.com. For a free Billings Vacation Guide contact the Billings Chamber of Commerce at 406-252-4016 or 800-735-2635.