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Your Summer Just Got Better: The 16th Annual Montana Brews and BBQs Is Back
Saturday, July 18 | 1–10 PM | Lakeside at Metrapark | Free Admission & Free Parking
There are some events that show up on the calendar year after year and never lose their pull. Montana Brews and BBQs is one of them. Now in its 16th year, this beloved Billings summer staple has built a reputation as the real thing, a true brewfest that keeps it entirely in the 406.
This year, that means 60 flavors from breweries spread across every corner of Montana. All kegged exclusively for the event. No national brands, no shortcuts. As the organizers put it, "it would take a 2,000-mile road trip to visit all the Montana breweries on hand," which makes Lakeside at Metrapark on July 18th a pretty good deal.
What sets MT Brews and BBQs apart from your average summer festival is its commitment to the kind of local that actually means something. Local brewers arrive with seasonal creations and beers brewed specifically for this event, flavors you simply cannot find anywhere else. Brewmasters will be on-site, happy to talk shop and hand out free gear to anyone curious about what goes into their craft. Come early: the event-only and seasonal pours are limited, and they go fast.
Beyond the beer, 20 of Billings' best food trucks will be rolling in with an eclectic spread that matches the variety in the taps. BBQ, ethnic cuisine, and everything in between. Whether attendees are staying for lunch, dinner, or both, there is something on the menu worth tracking down. Rhythm Destroyers, a crowd favorite, will keep the energy going all night with live music that fits the spirit of the day perfectly.
There are a few extra reasons to show up with something to celebrate. Thirsty Street Brewing is giving away free beer for a year, two pints a week for 52 straight weeks, to one lucky winner. Koozies, back by popular demand and compliments of Grizzly Excavation, will be available while supplies last. TDS Fiber is sponsoring misting tents to keep things comfortable through the afternoon heat. And for anyone who has ever been burned by festival restroom situations: there are air-conditioned interior restrooms on site.
Presale tickets are available now through July 17 at 5 PM at all Billings Shipton's Big R locations and Canyon Creek Brewing. For $25 (cash or check only), attendees get the official 2026 souvenir glass plus 10 drink tokens, and skip the lines on event day. Glasses and tokens will also be available at the gate throughout the day.
Every dollar in United Way of Yellowstone County proceeds from the event goes back to local community partners, which means a Saturday well spent doubles as a way to invest in Billings.
Free admission. Free parking. Sixty Montana-brewed flavors. A summer Saturday does not get much more Billings than this.
