State of Montana Newsroom
Governor Gianforte Attends Grand Opening of Rodeo Billings
BILLINGS, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today continued his 56 County Tour in Yellowstone County, celebrating the opening of Rodeo Billings at MetraPark.
“It’s great to join in the celebration of the return of outdoor rodeo back to the Magic City,” Gov. Gianforte said. “This arena will be a place where families gather, people compete, and our western traditions are carried forward for generations to come.”
Gov. Gianforte cutting the ribbon on a new outdoor rodeo facility at MetraPark
Joining Stoney Field, general manager of MetraPark, and David Allen, general manager of NILE Stock Show and Rodeo and Rodeo Billings, the governor celebrated the opening of the brand-new, state-of-the-art outdoor arena built on the grounds of MetraPark behind the Expo Center. The new facility will serve as a multi-purpose entertainment venue.
Rodeo Billings, held on August 14-16 during the MontanaFair, will mark the first major event held in the new arena.
“This is a big opportunity for everybody in Yellowstone County and in eastern Montana because we are kind of a regional hub,” said Allen. “There’s going to be all kinds of events here in the future that are going to contribute to the economy. When I think people finally see it, and see it functioning and in use, they’re going to realize what an asset it is for the community.”
This year, Gov. Gianforte signed into law House Bill 190, sponsored by Rep. Greg Overstreet, R-Stevensville, which designates American rodeo as the official state sport.
During the grand opening event on Thursday, the governor acknowledged the passing of Yellowstone County Commissioner John Ostlund. The inaugural year of Rodeo Billings has been dedicated to the late commissioner.
“I want to take a moment to remember Yellowstone County Commissioner John Ostlund, whose passing is a tremendous loss for this community and for our state,” the governor concluded. “John was an advocate for protecting our Montana way of life. I am grateful for his commitment to making Yellowstone County a great community.”