Frequently Asked Questions

The MSU Billings Wine & Food Festival is our premier fundraising event, bringing together fine wines, gourmet cuisine, and community generosity to benefit student scholarships.

The festival takes place each spring at MetraPark Pavilion, with two evenings of events. Signature events include the WineMaster Soirée, April 16, 2026 and A Vintage Affair, April 17, 2026.

All proceeds support MSUB scholarships, helping students overcome financial burdens and achieve their educational goals.

Tickets go on sale February 2^nd. We are currently selling sponsorships and if you are interested in being a sponsor, please contact Lisa McKinney at lisa.mckinney@msubfoundation.com.

WineMaster Soirée: $175 
A Vintage Affair : $250

Tickets are available online through the MSUB Foundation website or by calling our office at 406-657-2244.

WineMaster Soirée: Champagne reception, 2 flights of wine (8 total wines) and a dish paired with wine (8 total dishes). 
A Vintage Affair: Champagne reception, plated dinner and dessert. Beer can be bought at the event for a $20 cup with unlimited refills until the kegs run out.

We encourage purchasing in advance as events sell out quickly. On-site availability cannot be guaranteed.

Tickets are non-refundable but may be transferred to another guest. Please contact the Foundation office for assistance.

Tickets are not tax deductible. If you are a sponsor, a portion of your sponsorship is considered charitable. You will receive a charitable receipt for your records.

In the case of having two guests with the same name, the email address is how we can differentiate the two. This also gives us a way to communicate and send reminders.

Our software uses cell phones to send reminders and alert you when things are about to happen or about to close, such as silent auction.

In order to bid on silent auction items and purchase other things such as wine pull, wine from the wine store, and raffle tickets via credit card, you will need to upload your credit card. Just like when you put a hold on a hotel, they have your credit card information until you check out. We will not use your credit card information for any other reasons. 

Business casual or smart casual attire is recommended.  

Cocktail attire is suggested for this elegant evening gala.  

WineMaster Soirée:  
5:00pm | Doors open for Pinnacle & Premier Sponsors 
5:15pm | Pinnacle & Premier Sponsor WineMaster Meet & Greet 
5:45pm | Doors open for all guests 
6:15pm | Program starts 
6:30pm | First flight of wine 
7:15pm | Break 
7:30pm | Second flight of wine 

A Vintage Affair:  
5:00pm | Doors open for all guests 
Champagne reception – view silent auction items – visit wine store – participate in wine pull 
6:20pm | Program starts 

WineMaster Soirée:  

• Premier & Pinnacle sponsors: doors open at 5pm 

• All other guests: doors open at 5:45pm 

• Evening is planned to end around 8:30pm but is not guaranteed 

A Vintage Affair: 

• Doors open at 5pm, the program begins at 6:20pm 

Evening is planned to end around 9:30pm but is not guaranteed  

Silent Auction: 

• Only available online (this is why a credit card is required) 

• Opens the week of the festival (exact date TBD) 

Raffles: 

• Are available both evenings 

• You do not have to be present to win 

Live Auction: 

• Available for in person at A Vintage Affair only 

• Participants are given bid numbers to bid during the auction 

Includes a Raise the Paddle (bid number) moment specifically for student scholarships  

Complimentary parking is available on the east side of the MetraPark Pavilion. Signs will direct you.  

No.

Yes, all venues are accessible, and staff will gladly assist if needed. Handicap parking is located on the east side of MetraPark Pavilion.

Yes, a coat check will be available at each event.

Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels. Please contact Lisa McKinney at lisa.mckinney@msubfoundation.com.

We welcome donations of fine wine, experiences, or items for our auctions. Please reach out to the MSUB Foundation at 406-657-2244 or winefest@msubfoundation.com

Yes, volunteer opportunities are available before and during the festival. Please visit our website to sign up for volunteer opportunities or contact us at 406-657-2244 or winefest@msubfoundation.com

No. All events are 21+ due to alcohol service. 

Outside food and beverages are not permitted. 

WineMaster Soiree – NO
A Vintage Affair – YES

We accept credit cards, checks, and cash. 

Yes, the safety of our guests is important to us and we offer complimentary rides home via Uber.

Scholarships provide critical financial support, allowing students to focus on academics, reduce debt, and pursue their career goals.