Good morning, Billings.

Montana's unemployment rate dropped to 3.4% in May, lower than the 4.3% national level.

Gov. Gianforte's office reported 700 fewer people were unemployed and 2,600 payroll jobs were lost, mostly in construction + food service.

Billings South Side leaders expect an economic boost as the Signal Peak Energy Arena is set to open July 17 and the Amend Recreation Center will launch in early August; local businesses and officials say the new venues (including hotels and Lava Island) will improve the area’s visibility.

The Billings Education Foundation’s Munch Machine program is serving 365 children this summer and has a weekly waitlist of 40 as families face rising grocery and gas costs.

Volunteers pack and deliver food boxes to help kids who lose access to school meals when classes are out.

Billings police advise e-bike and e-scooter riders to obey traffic laws by using sidewalks outside downtown and bike lanes downtown to avoid safety risks; local bike shops also stress helmet use and proper lighting—steps that help keep everyone safe as rider numbers grow this summer.

Montana’s marijuana tax generated over $240M in the past four years, with distribution shifting to 49% for the general fund and 20% for parks.

Dispensary owners in Yellowstone County have raised concerns about consumer safety+ market saturation as funding adjustments continue.

Montana VA warned veterans today that a scam message claiming to offer free shoes is circulating and is not from an official VA program, urging them not to share personal information; veterans with questions should contact the department through verified channels.

Construction on the new St. Vincent Regional Hospital (a 14-story facility with nearly five completed floors) is progressing in Billings.

A $5M donation from the Fortin Family Foundations will support its pediatrics program as the hospital is set to open in 2029.

Michael Bazemore (43), athletic director at MSUB since 2021, announced his resignation Tuesday after accepting a similar role at the University of Alaska Anchorage; he will start his new job in late July and MSUB will soon begin a national search for his replacement.

Wood-fired & Wags

5-8 p.m. — Red Oxx Manufacturing Inc — $10.00 — Enjoy a delightful evening of wood-fired pizza and adorable puppies, supporting a great cause.

A Fairy Court Murder Mystery Dinner

Join us for an immersive Fairy Court Murder Mystery Dinner featuring a themed feast, interactive intrigue, and an enchanting evening of masks, magic, and mystery.

A Fairy Court Murder Mystery Dinner

Join us for an immersive Fairy Court Murder Mystery Dinner featuring a themed feast, interactive intrigue, and an enchanting evening of masks, magic, and mystery.

Charley Crockett - Age of the Ram Tour

7-11 p.m. — Billings Downtown Skatepark — Ticket info available — Experience Charley Crockett's unique blend of country music with special guest Alicia Blue.

Brothers Osborne Concert

7-11 p.m. — Billings Downtown Skatepark — Tickets required — Experience the Grammy-winning duo Brothers Osborne as they celebrate a decade of genre-defining music.

4 the Girls Challenger Softball Tournament

Independence Day weekend — Poly Vista Park — Registration required — Celebrate softball and competition with divisions for all ages as you enjoy a spirited community event.

Billings Fourth of July Fireworks

10:30 PM — Castle Rock Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with spectacular fireworks lighting up the Billings sky.

Igor and The Red Elvises Live

8-11 p.m. — The Pub Station — Tickets available — Experience the lively performance of Igor and The Red Elvises in Billings.

2026 American Powerlifting Organization Nationals

July 10-12 — Billings Hotel and Convention Center — Registration Required — Experience high-energy powerlifting competition at its finest with top athletes.

Montana Merge Of The Cities 3

2-7 p.m. — MetraPark - First Interstate Arena — Check event page for cost — Experience the All City Montana Showcase and enjoy the community's automotive passion.

Alex Lambert Live in Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Pub Station — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of Texas-born singer-songwriter Alex Lambert supporting Paul Cauthen.