The 71st Annual Billings Mexican Fiesta brought thousands to South Park to celebrate the rich tapestry of Mexican culture. Attendees enjoyed a vibrant day filled with music, dancing, and delicious food, while reconnecting with old friends and forming new memories. Organizers, the Contreraz brothers, were thrilled by the record-breaking turnout and the joyful atmosphere that honored the event’s longstanding tradition.
BILLINGS, Mont. – Thousands gathered in South Park to celebrate the 71st annual Billings Mexican Fiesta, a long-standing event that highlights Mexican culture.
The fiesta featured hot rods, live music, dancing, and an array of food options. Anthony Antunes, lead singer for the Tejano Outlaws, emphasized the significance of the event’s longevity, saying, “I think all the people, the tradition, definitely the tradition of the fiesta, it’s impressive that nothing goes 71 years anymore. And so for this, for this festival to go on for 71 years is credit to what it’s all about.”
The event attracted both newcomers and regular attendees. Amanda Housler experienced the fiesta for the first time, expressing her enjoyment and intention to return annually. Lenardo and Vickie Duran, also attendees, shared their positive experience, stating, “It’s awesome. It’s good food, good friends, good atmosphere.”
As live music filled the air, attendees showcased their dance moves. One couple shared their pride in celebrating Hispanic culture, saying, “Growing up Hispanic, it’s a very rich culture with family. And we all take care of each other and look out for each other.”
A heartwarming reunion took place at the fiesta when Lenardo Duran recognized the bass player in the band as his old friend, Robbie Quintana, whom he hadn’t seen in nearly 30 years. “We grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We lived within like a block from each other. Our families have all intertwined throughout the years,” said Duran.
The event’s organizers, the Contreraz brothers, reported a record-breaking year with over 90 vendors, 275 cars in the car show, and more than 6,000 attendees. Tony Contreraz expressed pride in continuing the legacy of the fiesta, stating, “All of the various family members in that very first, Fiesta council back in 1953, this was their idea, you know what I mean? It’s like we’re just here, just continuing something that already started, makes me super proud to just be a part of that, that legacy, you know?”
Dallas Contreraz added, “Just seeing everybody’s reactions right? You know, as far as just seeing, you know, all the hard work that we put in, you know, to be gratified by seeing smiles on people’s faces, seeing people dance.”
