Good morning, Billings.

Cheba Hut announced that its first Montana location will open in Billings at Shiloh Commons— the franchise is hiring for multiple positions to run its cannabis-themed sub shop.

SD2 plans to expand its health science courses and purchase a downtown building—officials said its costs will be covered by tenant revenue—as part of the district's effort to boost program offerings.

Environmental groups asked the Public Service Commission to check if growing energy use from three proposed data centers—two near Butte and one near Billings—will raise bills for NorthWestern Energy customers.

They worry that the high power use may lead to unfair costs for residents while the commission investigates the potential impact.

City officials installed new safety flags and 'Stop Ahead' signs at the Mary Street and Bitterroot Drive intersection after residents raised concerns following three serious crashes—Public Works says the change comes as the Montana Department of Transportation begins a traffic study—and the study will determine if further measures are needed.

Billings SNAP recipients fear new federal recertification rules may reduce benefits if forms and interviews are not completed by Dec.

15—residents like Stacey Winkle and local business owners still recover from recent delays following the government shutdown. Many worry that added paperwork and stricter requirements will lead to further delays and economic strain.

Montana’s VA cut its benefits backlog by 57% from 264,717 to 112,353 — a drop achieved as it processed more than 3 million disability and pension claims in FY2025.

The agency also set records by processing one million claims faster in February and 15,364 claims on May 29 while boosting its accuracy to 93.5% in September.

The Montana Department of Commerce asked residents to vote on new 'Welcome to Montana' highway signs that greet travelers as part of the state's rebranding effort.

Voting is done online until December 31, with installation at entry points scheduled for late spring (weather permitting).

Nate Porter, 37, of Billings changed his lifestyle after learning he had type 2 diabetes last November—he quit smoking, started using a continuous glucose monitor, and adopted exercise and dietary changes to gain control over his health.

Yellowstone Medical Center's Diabetes Clinic is expanding with new exam rooms and additional staff and will complete improvements by mid‑January to help more patients manage the condition.

Grass Range-Winnett senior Jace Bantz, who broke both wrists this spring, has led his team to prepare for the 6-Man state title game and will play at 1 p.m. Saturday at home against Chester-Joplin-Inverness—marking their first state championship appearance.

Butte native Tanner Huff walked on to the Montana Grizzlies in fall 2021 and worked hard through injuries and position changes to become a star on special teams—he proved his speed as a state track champion and now drives key plays as his team heads into the playoffs.

His journey from a Montana Western commitment to becoming a Grizzly shows the power of dedication and tough work.

Disposable Heroes - A Tribute to Metallica

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — $28.65 to $49.15 — Experience the electrifying sounds of Metallica through Disposable Heroes and special guests.

Friends In Low Places - Garth Brooks Tribute

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Check ticket availability — Experience a lively tribute to 90's country with an energetic performance by a ten-piece band and special guest vocalists.

40th Annual Holiday Parade

6:30-8 p.m. — Skypoint — Free entry — Celebrate the festive season with the rockin' theme at this beloved local parade.

Repeat Offenders: Butterball 6 Concert

8 p.m. – 12 a.m. — The Pub Station — Ticket info available — Dance through the decades with eclectic hits and a lively atmosphere at this time-traveling concert.

Billings Symphony Presents The Nutcracker

2:00–3:30 p.m. — Alberta Bair Theater — Cost TBD — Experience the Christmas magic of the beloved ballet, The Nutcracker, with its enchanting tales and performances.

Tanner Laws Live

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — $22.65 — Experience authentic country music with Tanner Laws and their incredible storytelling melodies.

Forbidden Broadway: Merrily We Stole a Song

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Alberta Bair Theater — $67.00, $52.00; $52.00 Student + non-refundable fees — Enjoy a hilarious satirical roast of over 30 Broadway hits with outrageous costumes and madcap impressions from a talented cast.

Rockin’ for Rimrock Benefit Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Pub Station — $59.15 — Enjoy a night of live music and community support for recovery and hope.

Mark O'Connor Christmas Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Alberta Bair Theater — $42.00, $32.00; $17.00 Student — Enjoy a festive evening of holiday classics and original compositions by the acclaimed fiddler Mark O'Connor and his ensemble.

Yule-Aissance

Yule-Aissance is a two-day holiday Renaissance festival where knights, pirates, fae, and festive folk gather for shopping, entertainment, and seasonal delights. From Krampus and Father Christmas to dancing, classes, and costumes, it’s a magical winter experience for the whole family