Good morning, Billings.

ZooMontana has introduced Thor, a new gray wolf, as a full brother and companion to resident wolf Onyx.

Thor remains in mandatory quarantine—visitors are asked to keep quiet along the viewing path as he adjusts.

On Thursday, Billings Family YMCA celebrated 120 years of service as dozens gathered to honor its legacy and preview its future plans — the event featured historical displays with photos and memorabilia that marked a long tradition in downtown Billings.

Billings Symphony announced six finalists for its new music director position following Anne Harrigan's retirement after 20 years.

The finalists will each lead a Classic Series Concert in the upcoming season — the final choice will be revealed at an April 2027 finale concert with a debut at Symphony in the Park.

A study by the Bureau of Business and Economic Research last year found that over 450,000 anglers spent more than $1 billion on fishing trips in Montana—showing the boost to the state's economy.

The report noted that tourists drove over 70 percent of cold-water spending while Montana residents made most warm-water purchases.

MSU Billings and Billings Public Schools have launched the Direct Admit program to offer local high school graduates automatic entry to the university.

The initiative streamlines enrollment for students from Billings Senior, Billings West, Billings Skyview, and other local schools — including automatic scholarship consideration.

On Oct. 1, a Montana law went into effect that requires Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to give local and tribal governments both verbal and written notice before relocating large predators such as bears, wolves and mountain lions.

Representative Brandon Ler, who proposed the law with bipartisan support, said officials had already begun the new practice—strengthening wildlife management.

Billings voters heard from mayoral and city council candidates at a forum held at Thirsty Street Brewing yesterday as community groups explained the upcoming municipal election.

Ballots will be mailed mid-month and must be returned by election day, Nov. 4 — with late registration open until 8 p.m. that day.

Billings will hold a meeting next week to explain its plan to expand blight-busting efforts aimed at boosting the local economy—residents can offer public comments before the city council makes its final decision later this month.

The federal government shutdown has entered its second day and Montana health care providers and patients face challenges after Medicare stopped covering telehealth services on October 1—this change is making it harder for rural patients to get care.

Dr. Eric Arzubi of Frontier Psychiatry said the loss of reimbursement may delay treatment and push up costs as lawmakers work to pass a funding bill.

Martina Eckard, a 90-year-old Billings resident who survived ovarian and breast cancer, said she will leave her estate to St. Vincent Regional Hospital cancer center to help fund cancer research and new treatments—her gesture honors the care that saved her life.

Former Pro Football Hall of Famer Terrell Davis spoke Thursday evening at the Alberta Bair Theater to support Billings School District 2’s fundraising campaign for renovating Daylis Stadium — a 96-year-old facility with issues like a 21-inch upward slope and outdated amenities.

He said a new, safe venue is needed for local kids, while the district and private donors now aim to raise $14.9 million.

All Hallows Medieval Fantasy Faire

Step into a world of magic, music, and medieval mayhem at the All Hallows Medieval Fantasy Faire! Join us for a weekend of jousting, raptors, live entertainment across seven stages, over 140 unique vendors, and whimsical fun for the whole family in the heart of North Park, Billings.

All Hallows Medieval Fantasy Faire

Step into a world of magic, music, and medieval mayhem at the All Hallows Medieval Fantasy Faire! Join us for a weekend of jousting, raptors, live entertainment across seven stages, over 140 unique vendors, and whimsical fun for the whole family in the heart of North Park, Billings.

Montana Healthcare Conference

Oct 7-10 — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Billings — Registration fees apply — Connect and engage in Montana’s largest healthcare gathering with over 30 breakout sessions and 500+ attendees.

MANIA: The ABBA Tribute Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Alberta Bair Theater — Tickets from $24.50 — Experience the magic of ABBA through an electrifying tribute show with stunning visuals and all the classic hits.

Country Dance Lesson & Dancing Night

8:15 PM – 12:15 AM — The High Horse Saloon & Eatery — Check for entry fees — Enjoy a night of country dancing from classics to popular line dances in a lively saloon atmosphere.

4th Annual Celebrity Chef Gala

5-10 p.m. — Northern Hotel — Donations appreciated — A culinary evening with Chef Andre Rush benefiting veterans and rescues.

MLCT 94th Annual Conference

8 AM – 1 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Billings — Check for registration fees — Engage with local leaders and enhance your community knowledge.

Candlelight: Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons

12:30-1:45 p.m. — Billings Depot — Tickets required — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons in a unique candlelight concert setting.

The Great Masked Pumpkin Race

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Riverfront Park — Race day registrations available — Dress up and run or walk for your pumpkin in this fun community race.

Kameron Marlowe Live with Dalton Davis

7-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Tickets required — Experience the thrilling voice of Kameron Marlowe alongside special guest Dalton Davis in a high-energy concert.

St. Olaf Orchestra Performance

7-9 p.m. — Billings West High School — Free entry — Experience the rich artistry and spirited performances of one of the finest collegiate orchestras in the country.