Good morning, Billings.

RiverStone Health will purchase and demolish the historic Colonial Apartments on Billings' South Side by the end of the year due to long-standing health, safety and building code issues — the company may create a space for resiliency with housing or clinical services — using no public funds.

Black Friday shoppers in Billings braved snowy weather on Friday morning to hunt for deals as Walmart and Target parking lots filled, marking a shift from chaotic early crowds to a more relaxed pace (some began as early as 5:30 a.m.).

Many noted that while online sales are growing, local in-person shopping still remains busy (helping traditional habits persist).

Teresa Gleason, a fourth-grade teacher at Alkali Creek Elementary, was honored by One Class at a Time for sharing new teaching ideas with colleagues—she received a $500 grant from the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools and a $150 gift card from City Brew Coffee—recognizing her commitment to improving student learning.

Snow began falling around 11 a.m. Friday, coating parking lots and prompting drivers to brush off their cars as shoppers braved slush to get their holiday deals.

Outside Scheels, volunteers with the Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign sang carols — adding a festive note to the wintry scene.

A Billings Clinic doctor warned that early lung cancer screening is key as nearly 227,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed this year, since patients often show symptoms only in late stages—eligible smokers and those with high radon exposure are advised to commit to yearly scans.

Mike and Krista Pasini have opened Rain Soul Studio on the Hart-Albin rooftop in downtown Billings to offer yoga and ayurvedic practices for holistic health—bringing a unique wellness experience to local residents.

The certified instructors will hold classes soon to help people care for their bodies and minds.

Rocky Mountain College guard Mekhi Jourdan is building his basketball career while following in his father's footsteps.

He overcame an early injury and now plays a key role for the Bears with a 5-1 start as they prepare to face Montana Tech next Friday—he hopes his recovery experience will help guide other players.

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

SCB's Nutcracker Ballet Performances

9:00 – 11:30 PM — 1500 N 30th St, Billings, MT — Tickets available at the studio or online — Experience a brand new local ballet featuring all new choreography and local talent.

Candlelight: Tribute to Adele

6:30 p.m. — Billings Depot — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Adele's music under candlelight with a string quartet.

A Christmas Carol Performance

7:30 p.m. — Alberta Bair Theater — $20.00-$77.00 — Experience a festive musical adaptation of Dickens’ classic with an audience singalong of beloved carols.

Parker Brown and The Bleeding Hearts Concert

6:30-10 p.m. — The Pub Station — $19.15 — Experience a night of versatile musical talent with Parker Brown and special guest Jennaka Beartusk.