Good morning, Billings.

Billings Climate Week kicks off free Earth Day events beginning this Thursday and running through April 27—featuring a 10-day lineup of local art, films, and sustainable fashion shows for all ages.

Since 2020, Marge Hall and her husband have run Pooch’z B&B—a nonprofit sanctuary where 25 senior dogs live out their final years at their home west of Billings.

The sanctuary provides a safe space and dedicated care to dogs who may have otherwise been overlooked.

The 5L Ranch family in Twin Bridges is boosting its business by adding a new alfalfa pellet mill to make fertilizer and feed for its large Red Angus herd—each family member uses their skills to support both farming and cattle operations and protect a Montana way of life.

This new move builds on years of experience and marks a key step in keeping the family ranch strong.

MSU Billings opened Dress the Nest on April 1 as a free closet to give students professional attire and headshots for interviews.

The initiative, supported by a $7,500 grant and a donation drive led by a local high school student, distributed ten outfits on its first day—boosting student confidence for upcoming interviews.

Today the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools is running its Backpack Meals program to pack fresh fruit and meals for School District 2 elementary students facing food insecurity over the Easter break—volunteers spend many hours each week ensuring no child goes hungry. The program has already increased meal packs by 25% this school year and now prepares about 700 packs to support the growing need among local children.

ZooMontana invites the community to a 'Party for the Planet' event on April 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the zoo—featuring reduced admission and conservation activities to educate visitors.

Montana lawmakers are reviewing a bill that would change the Public Service Commission from five elected commissioners to two elected and three governor-appointed after the Senate passed the measure—today, the House will hold a hearing on the proposal.

Supporters say it will add expertise while critics worry it could reduce public oversight over utility rates.

Billings School District #2 Candidate Forum/Meet and Greet

Please join Forward Montana and League of Women Voters for a candidate forum/meet and greet on Wednesday, April 16th at 6:00pm at the Art House Cinema and Pub in Downtown Billings. We’ve invited all candidates in the two competitive districts #5 and #7 and look forward to a night of hearing from them about their plan for the school board + hearing from YOU so you can learn more and make an informed vote!

Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival World Tour

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Babcock Theatre — $25 — Experience breathtaking mountain adventures through a collection of inspiring films while supporting local conservation efforts.

Clay Pot Painting Workshop

10 AM – 12 PM — Roots Garden Center — Free entry — Unleash your creativity with a fun day of painting your own clay pot planter.

Cooper Alan Live in Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — The Pub Station — VIP tickets available — Experience the dynamic sounds of rising country star Cooper Alan with a mix of heartfelt and playful anthems.

Yellowstone Chapter PGA Pro-Pro Tournament

— Time TBA — Hilands Golf Club — Participation fee required — Compete in the prestigious Pro-Pro golf tournament at one of Billings’ premier courses.

Veterans Benefits Overview

5:30-7 p.m. — Grace Montessori Academy — Free entry — Discover essential benefits including healthcare and support for veterans and their families.

Tchaikovsky's 5th Symphony Dress Rehearsal

7-10 p.m. — Alberta Bair Theater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beauty of Tchaikovsky's classic symphony performed by the Billings Symphony Orchestra.

Earth Day Family Bike Ride

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — The Spoke Shop — Free event — Enjoy a fun family bike ride to celebrate Earth Day with fresh air and community spirit.

Memphis May Fire Concert

6:30-8:00 p.m. — The Pub Station — Ticket required — Experience the anthems of Memphis May Fire as they confront modern struggles through powerful music.

Halfway to Halloween Party

9 PM – 1 AM — The Pub Station — $15 — Celebrate halfway to Halloween with DJs and a lively atmosphere.