Spring 2016
DOWNTOWN
Your comprehensive guide to Downtown Billings
LET’S PLAY DOWNTOWN Welcome to downtown Billings!
Bring your kids to downtown Billings, where there are multiple places for them to expand their noggins. page 7
featuredstories
citycenter
Let’s Play Downtown ............................................7-9 Let’s Meet Downtown: Downtown Billings offers venues large and small to suit your gathering ........... 10-12 Billings Purple People: They sweep, they clean, they shovel snow, they keep downtown Billings beautiful. .............. 13
Seasonal Events..................................................... 4-6 Calendar.............................................................. 16-17 Style Watch ......................................................... 18-19 Feast! .................................................................20-23 Arts & Culture .....................................................24-28 dotORG .............................................................. 29-30 Backlot ..................................................................... 31
We invite you to visit downtown Billings, the heart of our city! From banking to retail to entertainment and nightlife, downtown bustles from sun up to sun down. Cradled by the Rimrocks, Downtown Billings is a regional draw attracting visitors and enamoring its residents with state-of-the-art dining, retail, arts & culture, education and unparalleled healthcare. In downtown you’ll find a wonderful mix of locallyowned and -operated businesses. Our merchants prepare their store fronts with you in mind, and invite you into their shops to peruse their diverse retail offerings. You’ll love the personalized customer service you receive from our downtown businesses. Join us in supporting local, small business by shopping, playing and staying in the heart of our city. Stroll the vibrant streetscapes that lead to our award-winning museums, cafés, pubs, and restaurants, and you’ll know that you are exploring Billings at its best. You won’t be disappointed with our Historic District along Montana and Minnesota Avenues, which offers retail and cultural venues during the day, and turns into the hot spot to be at night with taverns, restaurants, tap rooms and tasting rooms. Need directions to our downtown cinema? Can’t find your hotel? Need a bike? Ask one of the Business Improvement District’s Ambassadors, the Purple People, for directions or ask one of our dedicated-to-downtown bike cops to assist you. Let us help you discover downtown. You’ll find more information and much more in this issue of Destination Downtown and our Downtown Guide and Directory, available at downtown businesses. Whether you are here for a day, a week, or a lifetime, enjoy all that downtown Billings has to offer! We are so pleased to welcome you.
Lisa K. Harmon
Executive Director Downtown Billings Alliance
feast From the Stella’s classic club sandwich to Doc Harper’s spicy pickle martini, downtown Billings has food and drink to sate anyone’s palate.
page 20-23 Cover photo by CASEY PAGE of The Gazette Staff
Destination Downtown is a special advertising section of The Billings Gazette. Access Destination Downtown at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections Sales and Marketing Director Dave Worstell
Special Sections Coordinator Spencyr Schmaltz
Digital Media & Classified Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau
Content Editors Brenda Maas Tara Cady
Retail Sales Manager Shelli Scott
DOWNTOWN
Your comprehensive guide to Downtown Billings
Looking for something to do?
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See the calendar of events on pages 16-17.
Downtown Dining at its
BEST! for Lunch or Dinner 245-7477 • www.therexbillings.com 2401 Montana Ave
Seasonal Events Art Auction 48 Come on down to the Yellowstone Art Museum Saturday, March 5 at 5 p.m. for Art Auction 48. YAM’s annual fundraiser boasts a gala as well as silent and live auctions, with proceeds supporting future exhibits and education programs. This year’s theme is fire: 177 fiery art pieces are available for viewing until March 5. General admission tickets available at the door. See artmuseum.org for ticket information.
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March 5, 5 p.m. Yellowstone Art Museum CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff
Spring Home Improvement Show
Montana Women’s Run Run like the future of Montanan women and families depends on it— because it does. For the 35th year, women are running to raise funds for programs that support women and families, such as those offered by the YWCA, YMCA and the Billings Clinic. For more information or to register, see womensrun.org.
May 7, starting at 8 a.m. Downtown Billings CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff
Rimrock Productions brings the most expansive exhibits to those in the home improvement market this spring. From March 4 to March 6, take in the hundreds of products and services as inspiration for your future renovations. Housed at MetraPark’s Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, this popuCASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff lar show in its 33rd year aims to surpass last year’s record- See billingshomeimprovementsetting attendance with its show.com for more information. hands-on demonstrations, inMarch 4-6 ventive booths and appealing Montana Pavilion & Expo Center food vendors.
Wine & Food Festival Connect with your inner wine connoisseur this May at the 24th annual Wine & Food Festival brought to you by the Montana State University Billings Foundation. From May 9 to May 14, become an authority and expert host with courses in wine, food and dinner parties. Challenge yourself to expand your horizons with the advice of area chefs. Festival proceeds go to the Foundation in support of MSUB students, scholarships and programs. See wineandfoodfestival.com for details.
HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff
ArtWalk Stroll through downtown Billings Friday, May 6 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and be part of Montana’s largest ArtWalk in its 22nd season. Featuring galleries, museums and studios, multiple sites collaborate to share creative pieces while also offering refreshments and live music. Oftentimes artists will be in attendance to share the inspiration behind their craft. Visit artwalkbillings.com or search “ArtWalk Billings” on Facebook for more information.
May 9-14 Various locations
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May 6, 5 to 9 p.m. Various locations
St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Celtic Street Fair Step into a hay ring this St. Patrick’s Day. A $10,000 diamond looms within if you can find it. Irish Heritage Clans and School District 2 “leprechauns” will parade the streets Saturday, March 19 at 10 a.m., continuing tradition for the 33rd year. Students grade 2 and below have the chance to win the cutest leprechaun contest, with proceeds benefiting local classrooms. Enjoy music from the Repeat Offenders and beverages from the Irish Beer Garden. Proceeds aid future Downtown Billings Alliance programs. See downtownbillings.com for details.
CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff
March 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Downtown Billings
Purple 5K Now in its 7th year, the Purple 5K raises awareness and funds for the Spare Change for Real Change program, a Downtown Billings Business Improvement initiative aimed at combating homelessness. Support your community this April 3 and make a difference for those in need. The race begins at 9 a.m. at Grandview Park. See downtownbillings.com for registration details.
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April 3, 9 a.m. Grandview Park
Upcoming
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CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff
Don’t forget to aDvertise in... Call Michelle Maki for more information at 406-657-1332 2016 issues: May 27 • August 26 • November 23
On the
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PLAY
Held the second Saturday of each month, Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids offers kids ages 5-12 the chance to work on different art projects with different mediums.
LET’S
DOWNTOWN
BOB ZELLAR/Gazette Staff
By TARA CADY tcady@billingsgazette.com It’s time to stretch those little legs! Bring your kids to downtown Billings, where there are multiple places for them to expand their noggins while having so much fun, they won’t even realize they’re learning! Perfect for parents and pleasurable for children of all ages.
WESTERN HERITAGE CENTER
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Courtesy of WHC
Head to the Western Heritage Center on March 26 for Heritage Playapalooza! This annual event mimics a school carnival and utilizes historic and vintage games.
For some old-school fun, head to the Western Heritage Center (WHC), where old favorites become alive again. “Get up, get out and interact from behind those video games,” said Lisa Olmsted, business manager at WHC. Heritage Playapalooza! is the perfect opportunity for just that. Started in 2010 and on its seventh run as a kids’ favorite, this annual event mimics a school carnival and utilizes historic and vintage games as opposed to what you see in stores today. Marbles, pick-up-sticks, hop scotch and more are at a child’s fingertips. WHC sells many of the games offered and monies raised go directly back to the kids through the WHC’s education programs (including field trips). On March 26 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. families can purchase a bundle of tickets (22 for $10) or one ticket at 50 cents to play games, receive face painting and collect balloon animals. If Playapalooza! doesn’t fit into your family schedule, new exhibits open March 15 and have components for kids to get involved, added Olmsted.
SAVE THE DATE Save the date & bring the kids to these “childrencentric” events downtown.
READ to a Dog Date & Time: March 5 and 12; April 2 and 9; May 7 and 14; 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Location: Billings Public Library
Magic by Kameron Date & Time: March 7, 6:30 p.m. Location: Billings Public Library
Full STEAM Ahead – Minecraft Stop Action Date & Time: March 8 and 9, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Location: Billings Public Library
Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids Date & Time: March 12, April 9 and May 14, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum
St. Patrick’s Day Craft Date & Time: March 13, 3 to 4:45 p.m. Location: Billings Public Library
Minecraft Builder Challenge
BILLINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY Are you tired of reading your child the same old story? Allow the Billings Public Library to take the reins. Story Time Tales is gauged for 3- to 6-yearolds Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 10:30 to 11 a.m. For ages 2 to 3, Tales & Tots Story Time takes place Wednesdays from 10:30 to 11 a.m. And for the wee little ones, Books & Babies is held Thursdays from 3:15 to 4 p.m. and Fridays from 10:15 to 11 a.m. Weekend warriors can try Saturday Story Time from 11 and 11:30 a.m. Story time follows a theme that is then transformed into a craft in the Craft Corner at 11 a.m. Tuesday thru Thursday and at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday. Story Time and Discover the Fun (craft time) are a packaged deal to get young ones’ imaginations soaring. You can attend Discover the Fun even if you miss Story Time. Celebrate the closing of “I Love to Read” month with the library March 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the Community Room. Treat kids to a “Magic by Kameron” presentation for completing the Family Reading Program. If there’s a scheduling conflict, magic class returns March 30 from 4 to 5 p.m. for 8- to 12-year-olds. Though reading month comes to an untimely end, opportunities to read continue in the month of March with READ to a Dog. Kids have the chance to read to a therapy dog in the Story Tower. Whether your child has a love for reading, trouble reading or a love for dogs, this
Date & Time: March 16 and 23; April 6 and 13; May 4 and 11; 3:30 to 6 p.m. Location: Billings Public Library
FAM at the YAM Date & Time: March 18 and May 20, 5 to 7 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum
Master Gardener’s Seed Planting Date & Time: March 24, 4 to 5 p.m. Location: Billings Public Library Heritage Playapalooza! Date & Time: March 26, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location: Western Heritage Center
March Magic Class with Kameron Messmer Date & Time: March 30, 4 to 5 p.m. Location: Billings Public Library
Spring Make & Take Craft Date & Time: April 12 and May 3, 3 to 4:45 p.m. Location: Billings Public Library CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff
READ to a Dog, held March 5 and 12, offers kids the chance to read to a therapy dog in the Story Tower at Billings Public Library. event, held March 5 and March 12 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., is a great way to practice reading aloud while enjoying the company of a calming canine. There are many more exciting ways to learn and play at the library, including Minecraft Builder Challenges, Spring Make & Take Crafts, and a Master Gardener’s Seed Planting class.
Billings Public Library also has an extensive assortment of Legos. “A lot of families don’t have the Lego collection we have,” noted Children’s Librarian Cindy Patterson. With several programs being offered each week, pick and choose what you think your child would enjoy most.
Pete the Cat Visits the Library! Date & Time: April 16, 11 a.m. Location: Billings Public Library
All the Way ART Date & Time: April 27, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Location: Billings Public Library
Full STEAM Ahead – Bristlebots on the RUN! Date & Time: May 4, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Location: Billings Public Library
WISE WONDERS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Although it’s only several months old, Wise Wonders has already become a family favorite. Geared toward kiddos from birth to age 9, this museum features a soft play area with mats for infants and toddlers plus imagination stations such as a grocery market and kitchen for children to pretend they are shopping while learning their colors, sorting and healthy eating. Sensory exhibits, play cabins, pretend fishing and a playground to build tunnels, slide and climb are all options for excited youngsters eager to explore the world around them.
The museum’s founders addressed the need for more downtown play options in Billings. Executive Director Kelli Toohill noted the area’s need for creative venues for children, “I grew up around so many museums in the Midwest and moved to Billings and noticed there’s no children’s museums.” Currently open Tuesday thru Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wise Wonders is looking forward to renovations to be completed by March 1 and expand both hours and offerings within a 1,200-square-foot
addition. The additional exhibits will cater to older ages and literary and science programs will be added. For just $1, any child age 1 and up can play. There are also family memberships available. Wise Wonders tries to stay open when school is not (like on PIR days), except for national holidays. Wise Wonders also rents out their venue Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons for events like birthday parties. That springtime itch to get out of the house is real. Venture downtown with your family and take advantage of all of what this great city has to offer the next generation.
HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff
Geared toward children birth to age 9, Wise Wonders offers many options for children to explore the world around them.
YELLOWSTONE ART MUSEUM Yellowstone Art Museum (YAM) is hoping to discover your child’s creative genius. Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids takes place the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Each month of the school year there is a different art project with a different medium for kids ages 5-12. From writing to clay to mixed media, there are opportunities for children to get their feet wet in various ways. Space is limited to 30 kids, so please call YAM for reservations at (406) 256-6804. For fun for the whole family, YAM offers Family Fun Night (better known as FAM at the YAM) on March 18 and May 20 to kids, teens, adults and seniors. You never know what projects there might be, as YAM has previously brought in an artist to help families create silk ties. As YAM Education Director Linda Ewert has found, “We never send anyone away without a smile on their face.”
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Let’s Meet Downtown [ Groups ranging from 15 to 40 can reserve the back room at Bin 119 which is perfect for business presentations, rehearsal dinners and more.
LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff
]
Venues large and small to suit your gathering
taking advantage of what downtown has to offer. There’s no clean-up and a guaranteed good time to be had by all. As warmer weather approaches, With graduation celebrations, family re- business owners and managers recommend unions and wedding showers on the horizon, reserving spots in advance. Here’s a small samconsider downtown as a city-center meeting pling of what’s available in Downtown Billings. place. Billings’ downtown offers a variety of sites to host your special occasion. Local restaurants, Bin 119 coffee shops and event venues cater to the varySmall crowds are always welcome at this caing needs of the group, whether guests want to sual fine dining venue known for its wine selecdecorate on their own or utilize decorations and tion and American bistro. technology that the venue provides. Consider Bin 119 is a popular choice for gatherings,
By TARA CADY tcady@billingsgazette.com
owner Stephon Mentzer said, “We receive nothing but compliments.” Groups ranging from 15 to 40 in size can reserve Bin 119’s back room to host business presentations, graduation celebrations, bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, showers and more. The room is brightly lit with a flat screen and the doors close to allow for private meetings. “People are welcome to bring their own decorations,” added Mentzer. The room is available at no additional cost,
but reservations for this private space require a $350 food and beverage minimum for events hosted prior to 4 p.m. and $400 after 4 p.m. Famous for tapas, thick ribeye, high quality tenderloin, duck, halibut, salmon and more, there is plenty to choose from within their menu. Reservations are for half a day and there is a seven-day cancellation policy. Bin 119 books events seven days a week within a three- to four-month window. In the summertime, an outdoor patio is available first come, first serve.
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The historic Billings Depot offers two ballrooms to host events such as weddings, galas, proms and combined graduation parties. LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff
Crowne Plaza If you’re planning a huge shindig, check out the Crowne Plaza. “The Crowne Plaza offers 16,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space to accommodate weddings, large conferences and smaller business meetings,” said Tiffany Finnicum, director of sales. Larger events such as weddings and conferences should be booked a year in advance, but smaller meetings can be hosted with little notice depending on availability. Two boardrooms allow for private business meetings. A standard room rental for a smaller room can hold 30-50 people and runs about $250. Rates vary depending on the amount of space needed and food and beverage requests. Guests can bring in their own decorations or utilize what the Crowne Plaza has to offer. They’ve marketed mirrored centerpieces and white and black linens in the past for wedding events.
The Rex Visit The Rex for great open space with lots of options for mingling. Having hosted people from the Montana Pro Rodeo Hall and Wall of Fame, rehearsal dinners, graduation parties and business meetings, The Rex offers groups of 30 to 50 a semiprivate space for great drinks and delicious food. If there are more than 30 people in the group, there is no rental charge. A room costs about $150 depending on the day of the event. “The sooner reservations are made, the better, so you know you have the space,” suggested general manager Pam Listoe.
Jake’s On one of the busiest corners in Billings, Jake’s prides themselves on their service, quality and variety. Touting large rooms and smaller conference areas, clubs, companies and organizations can assemble together for a night of celebrating and casual fine dining. The conference rooms have flat screen monitors and the larger spaces have a projection screen. Equipment does take away from the seating capacity, but Jake’s average-sized group of 30 can function well within the space. “If booked for 5:30 or later, the room is yours for the night,” said general manager Scott Berube. Jake’s prefers to have at least one and a half week’s notice for booking a space. There is no fee for rooms, but sometimes there’s a minimum order requirement depending on the time of the week and season. Rooms are rented in three-hour intervals during the holidays to accommodate for parties. “Guests say that our service is amazing and that they can’t wait for their next chance to visit,” Berube raved.
MoAV Coffee House Opening in April, the MoAV Coffee House aims to keep it fresh for the congregating communities of Billings. The large space is intended to house 60 and is partitioned into little living room-like pods to provide for private business meetings. Innovated with both coffee and community in mind, this new coffee house deviates from a fast-food vibe, offering customers naturally-flavored coffees with servers to deliver them and zero wait lines, allowing for conversation to take precedence. Co-owner Matt Pipinich shares his passion for Billings’ newest place to gather, “My heart and soul lies within people and community.”
The Billings Depot Renovated and rearing to go, this historical landmark boasts two ballrooms to host gargantuan gatherings such as weddings, galas, proms and combined graduation parties. Tucked within the heart of the Billings Historic District on Montana Avenue, the Billings Depot creates an environment where large parties connect and make memories. Space can be reserved from three weeks to two years in advance. When renting the Depot, you get the whole building. Attendees are welcome to bring their own decorations and food, or Cassie Lagreca, lead event consultant of neighboring business Better To Gather, can add her creative flair. An on-site bar service is also available.
Better To Gather Centrally located, Better To Gather hosts parties of 35 to 60 for celebrations such as baby showers, birthday parties and ugly sweater holiday bashes. Art classes are available as add-ons to a party at an additional cost with classes tailored to your individual interests. “Recently we held a birthday party where young girls made lava lamp lip-glosses,” said Cassie LaGreca, owner and event consultant of Better To Gather. Space can be rented at $125 for two hours (with a complementary extra 30 minutes) and you can upgrade at $25 for each additional hour. Guests can bring personal decorations or look to LaGreca for help.
Northern Hotel Amaze business partners, friends and family with the meeting rooms, ballrooms and breakout rooms the Northern Hotel provides. Perfect for conferences, weddings and other large gatherings, this facility meets and exceeds every need. With catered banquets, advanced technology and custom cocktails, one can’t go wrong choosing this venue. The Northern Hotel delivers on its promise to provide quality service with its various amenities, including valet parking, video conferencing and complementary wedding planning consultations (for couples who choose the hotel as location for their special day). Guests can reserve a meeting or event on their website.
Trailhead Spirits “For the best drinks in town, no riff-raff and a beautiful patio in the summertime, come to my distillery,” suggested Casey McGowan co-owner of Trailhead Spirits. A historic space, this spot is frequented by political gatherings, the Leadership Billings program and many local social clubs. Guests can utilize the stage, catering and the freedom to bring in their own food, technology and decoration if desired. Lead time for advanced booking varies seasonally.
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Better to Gather hosts parties of 35 to 60 for celebrations such as baby showers or birthday parties. Gazette Staff
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Billings Purple People
DOWNTOWN’S QUIET KEEPERS By BRENDA MAAS bmaas@billingsgazette.com Every family needs them…wait! No, every urban downtown needs them. They sweep, they clean, they shovel snow. Like an industrial-sized cleaning service the Purple People of downtown Billings have it handled. “We can usually be seen in a purple shirt or sweatshirt,” Joe Stout, operations director for Billings Downtown Alliance (DBA) said of the crew’s name and identity. That branding, when the Purple People group was formed as result of the Business Improvement District, was entirely intentional. “The Purple People need to be recognizable, simple to remember and easy to say,” Stout noted. Tess Tescher, owner of Gypsy Wind, pointed out the Purple People take care of whatever is needed – oftentimes without being asked. “When there was a mess leftover near my back door, they were there, cleaning it up before I could even get to it,” she said. “I just love them! They do so much to keep everything cleaned up.” They’ve even helped move heavy items, she added.
All in a day’s work A typical day for the Purple People starts well before most downtown businesses open. During the winter season crew begins by shoveling paths to each business so that the snow doesn’t get tramped down. After an initial pass, they come back and complete the snow removal. When there’s no snow, the Purple People sweep and power wash sidewalks and other public areas, keeping downtown looking good. According to Stout, the crew includes three full-time workers in the off-season with an additional two hired during the summer months. “Crews are on the streets seven-days-a-week, emptying trash, cleaning up,” he said. “We try to get there and get things cleaned up first thing, before anyone really gets in.” Monday mornings, after a weekend of “Billings-ites” having fun can be somewhat challenging, he added when asked about cleaning up after over-zealous patrons. “But we do what it takes,” Stout said. During summer months, the Purple People empty about 100 trash cans each week; there’s about 60 during the winter. The crew handles graffiti as soon as it is discovered. “It comes in waves; we clean up “tags” when we see them,” said Stout. “The best way to prevent graffiti is not allow it to stick around. We try to help with vandalism in general.” The Purple People often collaborate with the downtown police officers – both groups know the inner community from walking or
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Purple People team members Jerrid Gray, right, and James Chandler clean sidewalks on Montana Avenue.
LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff
biking their beat daily. The crew also helps with set-up or tear-down of all DBA events A Purple Person will walk about seven miles each day – Stout like Alive After Five (there were 13 in 2015), Strawberry Festival, has worn a pedometer to check the steps. Celtic Fair, parades and the like. They’ve even been known to help with unassociated events like Farmers’ Market and Burn the Point. Green thumb “We are here to get the job done – and that changes with what The crew also helps keep planters and the tree wells (the grids that cover the base of trees along streets like Montana Ave.) free our downtown needs,” said Stout of the myriad of tasks that the of debris. Additionally, they hand-water about 80 baskets on rota- crew takes on. Tescher is most grateful for their unlimited assistance. tion, sometimes daily, during the hottest time of the year. Newer “They’ve helped me several times. I’m not sure what I would do streets have irrigation wired into planters that beautify downtown without them.” Billings. Stout notes they work in concert with the City’s Parks Department when downtown trees or planters need extra help like pruning or replacement.
issUes
Upcoming
Don’t forget to aDvertise in... Call Michelle Maki for more information at 406-657-1332 2016 issues: May 27 • August 26 • November 23 Pick up a copy of our handy arts & culture brochure at any one of the Billings Cultural Partners locations.
ories, t S g n i l l Te inds, M g n i d l i Bu tion! a n i g a m I Powering
To find out more about what’s going on this fall, check the Art & Culture link at
2822 Montana Avenue Billings, Montana www.ywhc.org 406-256-6809
www.Billings365.com
Programs for the Entire Family!
Bringing the Excitement of the Performing Arts to Big Sky Country
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ABT Box Office: M-Sat, Noon-5p.m.
After School, Family, Homeschool and Preschool programs throughout the school year!
(406) 256.6052 | www.albertabairtheater.org BiG BAD VOODOO DADDY • April 9
For more information, go to
mtaudubon.org/center
Connecting people to place (406) 294-5099 7026 S. Billings Blvd. Find us on Facebook
April 26
Looking for something to do? Turn to pages
16-17
for the calender of events
HUNGRY? Turn to pages
20-21
and get your fix with
FEAST!
Attend a concert, visit a museum, go to a poetry reading; the arts are alive and well in Billings! A Dynamic Partnership of Cultural Organizations That Serve You!
www.billings365.com
Art Auction 48 March 5, 2016 at 5 p.m. Live and Silent Auctions are on view now at the YAM.
Brad Rude, Wildness
The evening includes heavy hors d’oeuvres by Thomas Nelson Catering, no-host bar, live music, & Quick Draw. Visit www.artmuseum.org/ special-event/art-auction for more information and to purchase your tickets.
Larry Pirnie, Mustang Madness
Event sponsors include The Oakland Companies and Intermountain Distributing
www.artmuseum.org • 401 North th 27th Street, Billings • 406-256-6804
Tuesday - Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. February through December Featuring Western and Native American artifacts from the Yellowstone River Valley and a brand new exhibit now open: “Rip-Roarin’ Good Time: Sin in the Magic City”
Tuesday, 1 Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, 2 Clifford the Big Red Dog, Alberta Bair Theater, 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Garrison Keillor, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 3 Southern B Boys and Girls Divisional Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Muskie Love, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 4 Southern B Boys and Girls Divisional Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 12-8 p.m. Jam at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5:30-8 p.m. MUMMENSCHANZ, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Muskie Love, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 5 Southern B Boys and Girls Divisional Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. READ to a Dog, Billings Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Art Auction 48, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5 p.m. Muskie Love, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 6 Spring Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center and Montana Pavilion, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Muskie Love, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Monday, 7 Magic by Kameron, Billings Public Library, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, 8 Full STEAM Ahead – Minecraft Stop Action, Billings Public Library, 4-5:30 p.m. Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, 9 Jobs Jamboree, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Full STEAM Ahead – Minecraft Stop Action, Billings Public Library, 4-5:30 p.m. Thursday, 10 Muskie Love, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 11 Charlotte’s Web, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7 p.m. Muskie Love, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 12 Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-noon READ to a Dog, Billings Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Trunks and Treasures, Moss Mansion, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Friday, 1 Jam at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5:30-8 p.m. Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Dry Streak, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
APRIL
Magic City Rollers, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 6:30 p.m. Charlotte’s Web, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7 p.m. Billings Wolves vs. Spokane Empire, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:05 p.m. Billings Symphony: Cirque de la Symphonie, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Muskie Love, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 13 St. Patrick’s Day Craft, Billings Public Library, 3-4:45 p.m. Charlotte’s Web, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Tuesday, 15 Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, 16 Minecraft Builder Challenge, Billings Public Library, 3:30-6 p.m. Thursday, 17 High Noon Lecture Series - Cities of the Dead: A History of Billings’ Early Cemeteries, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m. An Evening with Lyle Lovett & Robert Earl Keen, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 18 Montana RV-Boat & Powersports Show, MetraPark Expo Center FAM at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5-7 p.m. Charlotte’s Web, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7 p.m. Sukay, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 19 Montana RV-Boat & Powersports Show, MetraPark Expo Center St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celtic Street Fair, downtown Billings, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. “Look Draw Look Draw” Workshop by Robin Earles, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Black Otter District Scout Show, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Charlotte’s Web, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7 p.m. No Limits Monster Trucks, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 20 Montana RV-Boat & Powersports Show, MetraPark Expo Center Charlotte’s Web, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Tuesday, 22 Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, 23 Minecraft Builder Challenge, Billings Public Library, 3:30-6 p.m. MAMMA MIA!, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 24 Master Gardener’s Seed Planting, Billings Public Library, 4-5 p.m. Friday, 25 Dry Streak, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 26 Heritage Playapalooza!, Western Heritage Center, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Billings Wolves vs. Iowa Barnstormers, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:05 p.m. Barrage 8, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Dry Streak, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 27 Dry Streak, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Monday, 28 Let It Be, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, 29 Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, 30 March Magic Class with Kameron Messmer, Billings Public Library, 4-5 p.m. Thursday, 31 Billings Chamber Annual Breakfast, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7-9 a.m. Dry Streak, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, 26 Eastern A Boys and Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark RV and Boat Show, MetraPark Expo Center Art and Craft Film Screening, Babcock Theatre, 7 p.m. Muskie Love, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 27 Eastern A Boys and Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark RV and Boat Show, MetraPark Expo Center Giacomo Puccini’s Turandot, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Muskie Love, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. IRATION & PEPPER: Hawaiian Punch Winter Tour 2016, Babcock Theatre, 8 p.m. Sunday, 28 RV and Boat Show, MetraPark Expo Center Muskie Love, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m.
MARCH
MARCH
Saturday, 2 Rescued and Reclaimed, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. READ to a Dog, Billings Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Dry Streak, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 3 Purple 5K, Grandview Park, 9 a.m. Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Dry Streak, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Tuesday, 5 Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. HOME FREE, Babcock Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, 6 Minecraft Builder Challenge, Billings Public Library, 3:30-6 p.m. Thursday, 7 Dry Streak, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 8 Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Dry Streak, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 9 Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-noon READ to a Dog, Billings Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Trunks and Treasures, Moss Mansion, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Theresa Caputo live, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:30 p.m. Dry Streak, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 10 Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Billings Community Band’s spring concert, Alberta Bair Theater, 2 p.m. Monday, 11 MT TSA State Conference, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday, 12 MT TSA State Conference, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Spring Make & Take Craft, Billings Public Library, 3-4:45 p.m. Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, 13 Minecraft Builder Challenge, Billings Public Library, 3:30-6 p.m. Friday, 15 PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 6:15 p.m. Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Rita, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 16 Pete the Cat Visits the Library!, Billings Public Library, 11 a.m. PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 5:15 p.m. Billings Symphony: Resurrection, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Five Women Wearing the Same Dress, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 17 PBR, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 12:05 p.m. Million Dollar Quartet, Alberta Bair Theater, 3 p.m. Rita, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Tuesday, 19 Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, 21 High Noon Lecture Series - Chinese in Montana: Our Forgotten Pioneers, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m. Friday, 22 Midori in Recital, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Rita, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.
APRIL
Tuesday, 3 Spring Make & Take Craft, Billings Public Library, 3-4:45 p.m. Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Tech N9ne: Independent Powerhouse Tour 2016, Babcock Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, 4 Minecraft Builder Challenge, Billings Public Library, 3:30-6 p.m. Full STEAM Ahead – Bristlebots on the RUN!, Billings Public Library, 4-5:30 p.m. Friday, 6 ArtWalk, downtown Billings, 5-9 p.m. Jam at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5:30-8 p.m. Desperate Measures, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 7 Montana Women’s Run, downtown Billings, starts at 8 a.m. READ to a Dog, Billings Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Desperate Measures, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 8 Desperate Measures, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Monday, 9 – Saturday, 14 MSUB Wine & Food Festival, check www. winefoodfestival.com for schedule of events Tuesday, 10 Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, 11 Minecraft Builder Challenge, Billings Public Library, 3:30-6 p.m. Thursday, 12 Carrie Underwood in concert, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7 p.m. Desperate Measures, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 13 Desperate Measures, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 14 Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-noon READ to a Dog, Billings Public Library, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Trunks and Treasures, Moss Mansion, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Desperate Measures, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 15 Nitro Circus, MetraPark Grandstands, 2 p.m. Desperate Measures, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Tuesday, 17 Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, 19 High Noon Lecture Series - Kid Gloves and Brass Knuckles: The Life of Nancy Cooper Russell, Western Heritage Center, 12 p.m. Desperate Measures, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 20 FAM at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5-7 p.m. Desperate Measures, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 21 Moss Mansion’s Heritage Home Tour, various locations in Billings Bruisefest, MetraPark Expo Center Billings Wolves vs. Colorado Crush, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:05 p.m. Desperate Measures, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, 24 Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m.
MAY
Sunday, 24 Rita, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Billings Wolves vs. Colorado Crush, 3 p.m. Tuesday, 26 Master Gardener, MetraPark Yellowstone Room, 6:30 p.m. Michael Londra’s Celtic Fire, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, 27 All the Way ART, Billings Public Library, 4-5:30 p.m. Saturday, 30 Billings Wolves vs. Cedar Rapid Titans, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7:05 p.m.
APRIL
events
Downtown Billings FEBRUARY
Montana Women’s Run
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Style Watch Photos by Hannah Potes of The Gazette Staff
Make waves this spring with this white and ocean blue Isle dress. Add a denim jacket and sparkly Neecee’s Collection earrings and necklace and you can walk it in to work. For a little pep to your step, try Fly London’s Yaffa wedge. Available at Neecee’s Dress: $150 Earrings: $15 Necklace: $30 Shoes: $175
Spring clean your look with a Bugatchi plaid flannel and dark-wash 34 Heritage jeans.. If the warm weather has you feeling adventurous, try OluKai leather sandals for a daring finished look. Available at Desmond’s Button-up: $149 Jeans: $190 Shoes: $110
Allow your style to ooze sophistication with a white tribal.jeans jacket and Elliot Lauren jeans. Layer up with a white yest tank and pink bobi los angeles tank. Complete your ensemble with a matching pink scarf and eric michaels leather sandals. Available at Cricket Jacket: $119 Jeans: $151 White tank: $34 Pink tank: $46 Scarf: $29 Sandals: $89
Feast
Try to keep the salivating to a minimum. Key word, try. Jake’s steak caprese features tender bits of steak tossed in a light cream sauce with added fire-roasted tomatoes, mozzarella, basil and cavatappi noodles certain to delight every taste bud.
Jake’s Downtown
HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff
2701 1st Ave. N.
A directory of the best food Downtown Billings has to offer.
124 N. Broadway
On the next unseasonably warm spring day, consider brunch at Stella’s. A classic club sandwich could be just what the doctor ordered for your late morning crash, featuring Stella’s Special Bread, turkey breast, baked bacon and cheddar cheese. Save room for fries, guaranteed to keep you full through the rest of the work day!
Stella’s
LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff
2325 1st Ave. N.
Sooner than you realize you’ll be taking back your summer dreams in hopes for a cool-down. Relieve your thirst, body temperature and lack of energy in one fell swoop by grabbing a refreshing iced coffee from Rock Creek Roasters. While you’re there, take some beans home with you to keep the energizer bunny within going and going and going.
Rock Creek Roasters
CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff
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Celebrate happy hour at Doc Harper’s Tavern with a delicious spicy pickle martini. The kick it provides is enough to enliven you after your busy 9-to-5 and remember there are more than eight hours in a day to enjoy yourself amongst friends over a beer, glass of wine or liquor cocktail.
Doc Harper’s
3011 1st Ave. N.
Indulge your senses with the fine flavors of fajitas. Available in both chicken and beef, they include all the essential fixings of bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, cilantro and freshly-squeezed lime. Prepare to yummm in delight with each bite.
Feast your eyes on what owner Bill MacIntyre considers his “world’s best” pork chop sandwich, based on his own mother’s recipe. Savor every bite in this homey “Irish-y” environment and be sure to stop in for St. Patty’s Day!
Guadalajara
Gazette Staff
17 N. 29th St.
Pug Mahon’s
Gazette Staff
The Rex
BOB ZELLAR/Gazette Staff
You don’t have to catch the next flight to travel south-of-the-border. Make your tummy happy with an order of satiating shrimp tacos with fresh-squeezed lime courtesy of The Rex. Venture out onto the patio once the weather permits for some added vitamin D.
BOB ZELLAR/Gazette Staff
116 N. Broadway
2401 Montana Ave.
Casual Cuisine
Feast A directory of the best food Downtown Billings has to offer.
Back Porch Deli 207 N. Broadway (406) 254-9519 Bernie’s Diner 19 N. Broadway (406) 867-6767 The Burger Dive 114 N. 27th St. (406) 281-8292 Café Zydeco 2503 Montana Ave. (406) 248-3440 Crazy Mary’s 1404 6th Ave. N. (406) 252-0089
Featured restaurants are marked with a shaded box.
Denny’s 501 N. 27th St. (406) 256-7335 Dickey’s Barbeque Pit 2519 Montana Ave. (406) 969-3909 Dude Rancher Restaurant 415 N. 29th St. (406) 259-5561
Café Italia 2417 Montana Ave (406) 896-9700
Soup and Such 2716 Third Ave. N. (406) 294-0148
Cham Thai & Cuisine 2916 First Ave. N. (406) 256-1812
Stacked: A Montana Grill 106 N. Broadway (406) 534-8702
Ciao Mambo 2301 Montana Ave. (406) 325-5100
Stella’s Kitchen & Bakery 2525 First Ave. N. (406) 248-3060
Don Luis 15 N. 26th St. (406) 256-3355
Coffee/ Specialty Shops
Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant 17 N. 19th St. (406) 259-8930
Big Dipper Ice Cream 100 N. Broadway (406) 534-2350 Broadway Deli & Café 313 N. Broadway (406) 281-8568 Brockel’s Chocolates 117 N. 29th St. (406) 248-2705
Guido’s Pizza 3005 First Ave. N. (406) 259-1041 La Tinga 113 N. 30th St. (406) 969-8828 Mamacita’s Café 304 N. 19th St. (406) 252-9950
City Brew 1131 N. 27th St. (406) 294-4620
Sarah’s Mexican Food 310 N. 29th St. (406) 256-5234
Le Lustré Cakes 2719 First Ave. N. (406) 702-1211
Shanghai Village 2926 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-6887
Harper & Madison 3115 10th Ave. N. (406) 281-8550
Log Cabin Bakery 2401 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-0389
Wild Ginger 2713 Montana Ave. (406) 252-4486
Hog Wild Cafe/Party Pig Catering 204 N. 22nd St. (406) 839-3154
Rock Creek Coffee Roasters 124 N. 28th St. (406) 896-1600
Fast Food
Lisa’s Sandwich Den 2908 First Ave. N. (406) 252-4282
Starbucks 27 N. 27th St. (in Crowne Plaza) (406) 252-7400
McCormick Café 2419 Montana Ave. (406) 255-9555
Velvet Cravings 225 N. Broadway (406) 294-0308
Perkins 825 N. 27th St. (406) 248-8320
Ethnic Cuisine
Hardee’s 608 N. 27th St. (406) 259-3344
29th Street Café 224 N. 29th St. (406) 259-3944
Jimmy John’s 122 N. Broadway (406) 281-8282
The Athenian 18 N. 29th St. (406) 248-5681
Kentucky Fried Chicken 719 N. 27th St.
The Fieldhouse Café 2601 Minnesota Ave., Suite 3 (406) 534-2556 Good Earth Market 3024 Second Ave. N. (406) 259-2622
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Rockets Gourmet Wraps & Sodas 2809 First Ave. N. (406) 248-5231
Pita Pit 2813 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-7482 Pug Mahon’s 3011 First Ave. N. (406) 259-4190
Bagel Inc. 3012 Fourth Ave. N. (406) 254-0445 Burger King 520 N. 27th St. (406) 245-7911
(406) 259-2641
Fine Dining Billings Petroleum Club 27 N. 27th St, 22nd Floor (406) 252-6700 Bin 119 119 N. Broadway (406) 294-9119 Commons 1882 404 N. 30th St. (406) 254-1882 Crowne Plaza Montana Sky 27 N. 27th St. (406) 252-7400
Juliano’s 2912 Seventh Ave. N. (406) 248-6400 Lilac 2515 Montana Ave. (406) 969-4959 TEN 19 N. Broadway (406) 867-6767 The Rex 2401 Montana Ave. (406) 245-7477 Walkers American Grill & Tapas Bar 2700 First Ave. N. (406) 245-9291
Jake’s 2701 First Ave. N. (406) 259-9375
Sports Bars - Bars - Pubs Angry Hanks 2405 First Ave. N. 20 N. 30th St. (406) 252-3370 The Bookie 3011 First Ave. N. (406) 245-4900 Carter’s Brewing 2526 Montana Ave. (406) 252-0663 Daisy Dukes 222 N. Broadway (406) 201-8725 Doc Harper’s 116 N. Broadway (406) 200-7177
Hooligan’s Sports Bar 111 N. Broadway (406) 259-3328
Tiny’s Tavern, Inc. 323 N. 24th St. (406) 259-0826
Montana Brewing Co. 113 N. Broadway (406) 252-9200
Trailhead Spirits 2314 Montana Ave. (406) 969-1627
The Pub Station 2502 First Ave. N. (406) 894-2020
Uberbrew 2305 Montana Ave. (406) 534-6960
The Rainbow Bar 2403 Montana Ave. (406) 259-0047
Yellowstone Valley Brewing Company 2123 First Ave. N. (406) 245-0918
Rock Pile 1207 N. 27th St. (406) 245-5985 Thirsty Street Brewing Co. 3008 First Ave. N. thirstystreet.com
OXFORD
Buying & Selling since 1981 at 2411 Montana Ave.
2713 Montana avenue Downtown Billings 406-252-4486
AVENUE Billings’ Favorite Experience
248-2094 or 656-2616 Tue-Sat: 10:30am - 4:30pm
Art & Gift Boutique Custom Picture Framing 2505 Montana Ave. • 252-0122 www.toucangallery.com
Golf 2822 Montana Avenue www.wyhc.org 406-256-6809
HOTEL ANTIQUES
{ beautiful things }
245-7477 2401 Montana Avenue
Shopping &
Entertainment
2509 Montana Ave. • 259-2261 www.harrykoyama.com
Fresh Seafood, Certified Angus Beef™ Specialties, Spirits, Piano Bar Fri-Sat
Dining, Dining
Billings’ Oldest Antique Shop Historic District
Montana’s Biggest & Best Indoor Golf Facility 3007 Montana Ave. • 245-8691
Historic Event Venue 406-656-7273 2310 Montana Avenue www.billingsdepot.org
Billings’ Craft Brewery & Taproom Open Daily 4-8pm 2526 Montana Ave • 252-0663
Newly Remodeled Still the best drinks in town 2403 Montana Ave. 259-0047
Arts & Culture ALBERTA BAIR THEATER Clifford the Big Red Dog Catered toward children in Pre-K through Grade 2, this motivational show encourages youngsters to be the best that they can be. Topics covered include respect, responsibility, teamwork, kindness and sharing. In an easy-to-understand format, kids will be offering their assistance around the house and cooperating with others in no time! Date & Time: March 2 at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertabairtheater.org
Garrison Keillor Grammy award-winning radio host Garrison Keillor brings his voice to the stage. Broadcasted by more than 600 radio stations across the United States and followed by roughly four million listeners, Keillor has created a name for himself not only in public radio, but as a humorist, author, editor and bookstore owner. His literary work includes Lake Wobegon Days, The Book of Guys and Guy Noir and the Straight Skinny. Date & Time: March 2 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertabairtheater.org
MUMMENSCHANZ
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This mute and solely visual theater performance, evolved from its Broadway debut four decades ago, encompasses a Swiss mask theater troupe that transforms household materials into works of art. The stories told inspire imagination and Courtesy of ABT wonder, engaging the audience through abstract figures and clear creativity on the part of its founding members Andres Robert Keen and Lyle Lovett perform at the ABT for one memorable night on March 17. Bossard, Floriana Frassetto and Bernie Schurch. Date & Time: March 4 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT An Evening with Lyle Lovett & Sukay Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertaRobert Earl Keen Sukay, in ancient central Andes Mountain Quechua lanbairtheater.org With a combined discography of 31 albums including stu- guage, means “to open the earth and make it ready for plantdio, live and compilation pieces, these two old friends joined ing.” The spiritual sounds of pan pipes, flute, classical guitar Cirque de la Symphonie together on stage to relive the Texan glory days where they and mandolin-like charango energize its audience with fast The best of cirque comes to Billings in this spectacular per- shared ideas and co-created “The Front Porch Song.” Induct- tempos and indigenous rhythms. Sukay has been sharing muformance. A mosaic of aerial flying, dancing, juggling, balanc- ees into the Texas Heritage Songwriters Hall of Fame, these art- sic history with the world since 1975. ing and more, audiences with oooh and ahhh at the seemingly ists bring their talent and acoustic guitars for one memorable Date & Time: March 18 at 7:30 p.m. impossible talents from artists around the world. night. Location: ABT Date & Time: March 12 at 7:30 p.m. Date & Time: March 17 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertaLocation: ABT Location: ABT bairtheater.org Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertaTickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertabairtheater.org bairtheater.org
MAMMA MIA! Based on the music of ABBA, this musical livens its audience through comedy and the feel-good vibes of fun-loving Greek islanders where the party never ends. Prior to having a wedding celebration, the bride-to-be seeks to find out who her father is by inviting her mother’s past suitors to the island. As an enjoyable tale with unforgettable characters and timeless music, there is no wonder this musical is most popular internationally. Date & Time: March 23 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertabairtheater.org
Barrage 8 Brought to you by the creators of Barrage, this innovative show features eight string instruments covering multiple genres to deliver a strong stage performance that introduces its audience to the diverse sound of violin, viola, cello and double bass. John Crozman, Dean Marshall and Tony Moore deliver the mesmerizing, modern sounds sure to enchant and inspire. Date & Time: March 26 at 7:30 p.m. Courtesy of ABT Location: ABT Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertabair- See popular swing band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy at ABT on April 9. theater.org
Let It Be
captivating performance loved by millions. Londra is known as the This is not your average cover band experience. Let it be known former voice of Riverdance on Broadway and as the star of his own that this Beatles-inspired performance brings back over forty clas- TV special, “Michael Londra’s Beyond Celtic.” sics including “Yesterday,” “Come Together” and “Let It Be” to bring Date & Time: April 26 at 7:30 p.m. together the multiple generations that have fallen for the timeless Location: ABT songs throughout the decades. Come together, right now, over a Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertabairtheater.org night of 60s music. Date & Time: March 28 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertabairtheater.org
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
ART HOUSE CINEMA & PUB
To view all current and upcoming movie showings at the Art Popular swing band Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, named after an House Cinema & Pub, log on to www.arthousebillings.com. autograph by blues performer Albert Collins, delivers a beat that should be recognizable from their major appearances on late-night comedy shows and the Superbowl. Started in 1993, this group has been featured in numerous movies and television shows and fails to disappoint to this day. IRATION & PEPPER: Hawaiian Punch Date & Time: April 9 at 7:30 p.m. Winter Tour 2016 Location: ABT Musical groups Iration, Pepper, and special guest New Kingston Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertabairtheater.org combine their creative geniuses to mix reggae with rock in this jam session of a lifetime. Date & Time: February 27 at 8 p.m. Million Dollar Quartet Location: Babcock Theatre Based on the 1956 recording session of Elvis Presley, Johnny Tickets: Tickets available at the Pub Station box office (2502 1st Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins, this musical delivers rock ‘n’ Ave. N.) or online at www.1111presents.com. roll classics like “Blue Suede Shows,” “Walk the Line” and “Hound Dog.” Allow your dreams to come true for just one night as perform- HOME FREE ers inspired by the legends themselves band together in harmony. Pop and country collide with this a cappella group. Best known Date & Time: April 17 at 3 p.m. as the winners of the fourth season of The Sing-Off on NBC, this clan Location: ABT Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertabair- of singers covers old country favorites as well as exhilarating hits of theater.org their own creation off of their seven studio albums. Date & Time: April 5 at 7:30 p.m. Location: Babcock Theatre Michael Londra’s Celtic Fire Tickets: Tickets available online at www.ticketfly.com. Award-winning Irish performer Michael Londra delivers a live song and dance show to showcase what it feels to be in Ireland in a
BABCOCK THEATRE
We also stock a large selection of bakeware, accessories, and replacement lids.
Still Downtown after 35 years! MAIL ORDERS WELCOME 1-800-653-8528 • Gift Certificates • We Sell Hunting & Fishing Licenses
10 NORtH 29tH BILLINGS, Mt • M-F 9:00-6:00 • SAt 9-5:30 • SUN 12:00-5:00 eddie@go-armynavy.com
Tech N9ne: Independent Powerhouse Tour 2016
CROOKED LINE STUDIO
Rita
An opera also known as The Beaten Husband, this one-act show Infamous rap artist Tech N9ne delivers fast-paced rhymes to offers a refreshing dose of politically incorrect dialogue alongside Billings with his Strange Music crew, featuring Krizz Kaliko, Maypowerful musical elements. day!, Stevie Stone and Ces Cru. Having released his sixteenth studio For upcoming classes at Crooked Line Studio, log on to www. Date & Time: April 15 and 22 at 7:30 p.m.; April 17 and 24 at album in late 2015, this seasoned Kansas City rapper will deliver crookedlinestudio.com. 2 p.m. a twisted performance alongside his pals to his devoted “techniLocation: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts cians” in one memorable night. Tickets: Buy ticket at the door or see www.novabillings.org Date & Time: May 3 at 7:30 p.m. Location: Babcock Theatre Tickets: Tickets available at the Pub Station box office (2502 1st To view all upcoming events at The Pub Station, log on to www. Ave. N.) or online at www.ticketfly.com. thepubstation.com.
NOVA CENTER FOR THE THE PUB STATION PERFORMING ARTS
BETTER TO GATHER
Giacomo Puccini’s Turandot
Based in ancient China, Puccini’s final work tells the story of a For upcoming classes at Better to Gather, log on to www.bet- mischievous Princess Turandot who disguises her commitment tertogather.com. phobia by subjecting her suitors to riddles. If the princes fail to solve her puzzles, they not only fail to have her love, but also their lives. When one prince passes her test, he works with Princess Turandot to prevent their actual courtship by giving her a riddle of his own: figure out his name. Date & Time: February 27 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT To view classes and seminars offered at Billings Public Library, Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit www.albertabairtheater.org log on to www.billings.lib.mt.us.
BILLINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY
BILLINGS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & CHORALE Cirque de la Symphonie Cirque performers from across the world join together in this new production to bring you aerial flying, acrobatics, dancing, juggling and more in a carefully choreographed show set to classical gems and popular contemporary music. Adapted from famous cirque performances seen across the world, you are sure to be in awe by the night’s end. Date & Time: March 12 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: Call BSO&C at (406) 252-3610 or visit www.billingssymphony.org
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Resurrection
Mahler’s immortal “Resurrection” Symphony features live image magnification and both the orchestra and chorale for a breathtaking performance that will surely give you cold chills with its powerhouse voices and spellbinding arrangements. Date & Time: April 16 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: Call BSO&C at (406) 252-3610 or visit www.billingssymphony.org
Midori in Recital Grammy award-winning violinist Midori makes an appearance in-between her busy schedule of recitals, concertos, lectures and activism to excite the ears of her listeners with an extraordinary performance cherished by millions worldwide. Date & Time: April 22 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: Call BSO&C at (406) 252-3610 or visit www.billingssymphony.org
WESTERN HERITAGE CENTER High Noon Lecture Series Cities of the Dead: A History of Billings’ Early Cemeteries
This is not for the faint of heart. If you aren’t easily spooked, attend this lecture and receive a lesson on the history of Billings’ early cemeteries. Perhaps you might uncover some family history. A youth conservatory production based on E.B. White’s chilDate & Time: March 17 at noon dren’s book sets the stage for a girl, a pig, a rat, a spider and a family Location: Western Heritage Center together to discover friendship through kindness and goodwill. Tickets: See www.ywhc.org for more information. Date & Time: March 11-12, 18-19 at 7 p.m.; March 13 and 20 at 2 p.m. Heritage Playapalooza! Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Move away from the screen and join the WHC for a fun-filled day Tickets: Buy ticket at the door or see www.novabillings.org of historic and vintage gaming, including classics such as pick-upsticks and hopscotch. With proceeds going toward programs, this Five Women Wearing the Same Dress annual event in its seventh-year-running pays it forward to the kids Five bridesmaids avoid a wedding reception by hiding out and through their field trip and exhibits offerings. Plus, if the family falls developing a bond over laughter and the joys of femininity. in love with one of the games, it may be available for purchase right Date & Time: April 1-2, 8-9 and 15-16 at 7:30 p.m.; April 3 and 10 there on site. at 2 p.m. Date & Time: March 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Buy ticket at the door or see www.novabillings.org Tickets: Sold on site for .50 each or 22 for $10; See www.ywhc. org for more information.
Charlotte’s Web
High Noon Lecture Series Chinese in Montana: Our Forgotten Pioneers Did you know that the Chinese took up 10 percent of the state in 1870? Learn more about this forgotten piece of history and why you haven’t heard about it before in this lecture provided by historian and author Ellen Baumler. She dispels myths using archaeological sites, artifacts and landmarks as evidence for Montana’s littleknown Chinese dwellers. Date & Time: April 21 at noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: See www.ywhc.org for more information.
High Noon Lecture Series Kid Gloves and Brass Knuckles: The Life of Nancy Cooper Russell Mary Jane Bradbury tells the love story of Nancy Cooper Russell, wife of artist Charles M. Russell, who helped pave the way toward his success and spread his mythic, western paintings and sculptures coast to coast, while meeting fellow artists and celebrities along the way. Date & Time: May 19 at noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: See www.ywhc.org for more information.
YELLOWSTONE ART MUSEUM
Date & Time: February 26 at 7 p.m. Location: Babcock Theatre Tickets: Free for members, $6 for non-members.
Jam at the YAM
Stop in to YAM every first Friday of the month for live music, drinks and art exhibits. Signup to become a member and receive a free drink ticket toward beer or wine. Art and Craft Film Screening Date & Time: March 4, April 1 and May 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Discover the intentions behind well-known art forger Mark Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Landis, famous for copying historical pieces and giving them away Tickets: Admission is free for members or regular admission for across the United States. Attendees will receive a free pass to visit non-members. See www.artmuseum.org for more information. YAM with their paid ticket.
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Art Auction 48 YAM’s annual fundraiser boasts a gala as well as silent and live auctions, with proceeds supporting future exhibits and education programs. This year’s theme is fire: 177 fiery art pieces are available for viewing until March 5. Date & Time: March 5 at 5 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: See www.artmuseum.org for more information.
Boundless Visions YAM cycles pieces from their permanent collection in this continuing exhibit of Montana art. It is the only place in the state to view the expanse of state-wide artwork from its origins to present-day. Date & Time: Ongoing Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: See www.artmuseum.org for more information.
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Harold Schlotzhauer: The Shape of Motion
Featuring pieces from an artist who blurs the line between abstract and concrete images, Schlotzhauer’s exhibit reimagines objects and redefines ambiguousness to transcend its viewer’s understanding of what is and what could be. Date & Time: March 24 thru July 3 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: See www.artmuseum.org for more information.
Held on March 5, Yellowstone Art Museum’s annual fundraiser boasts a gala as well as silent and live auctions.
Courtesy of YAM
with a different medium for kids ages 5-12. From writing to clay to with child’s admission. No registration required. See www.artmumixed media, there are opportunities for children to get their feet seum.org for more information. wet in various ways. Date & Time: March 12, April 9 and May 14 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. “Look Draw Look Draw” Location: Yellowstone Art Museum The Falcon’s Eye: Nature Tickets: $5 members, $6 non-members. To register, contact Workshop by Robin Earles Photographs by Michael Sample Learn the art of drawing using line, shape and tone in this educaBerenice Munson, Education Program Coordinator, at (406) 256In honor of the late photographer Michael Sample, YAM presents 6804 x 232 or artsuitcase@artmuseum.org. tional course designed to transform the ordinary into extraordinary. this exhibition to engage art enthusiasts with timeless nature prints. Date & Time: March 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Date & Time: March 24 thru June 30 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum FAM at the YAM Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $60 members, $67 non-members. See www.artmuLocal artists teach the whole family how to create masterpieces seum.org for more information. Tickets: See www.artmuseum.org for more information. together. Date & Time: March 18 and May 20 from 5 to 7 p.m. Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Each month of the school year there is a different art project Tickets: $6 member child, $7 non-member child. Adults free
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LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff
Billings artist Carol Hagan is one of many artists with pieces up for auction at Art Auction 48 held at the Yellowstone Art Museum on March 5.
Art Auction 48
Rekindle the flames of your red-hot love for regional art March 5 at the Yellowstone Art Museum (YAM). Featuring 177 glowing contemporary pieces, YAM’s annual fundraiser draws a crowd of art enthusiasts to take in the brilliant ambiance of magnificent masterpieces. Support area artists through silent auction, live auction and “Quick Draw.” Interested buyers can purchase pieces as they fall in love them at full retail price plus 20 percent during the silent auction. Quick Draw and silent auction begin at the start of the event. Cocktails, hor d’oeuvres and live music provided when doors open at 5 p.m. Indulge in the dinner or dessert buffet catered by Thomas Nelson Catering and satiate your senses with Johnny Walker’s flamenco jazz and Cecilia Scott’s flamenco dancing. Preview the exhibition, which debuted January 21, up until auction. The annual Art Auction is YAM’s largest fundraising event, with proceeds going toward YAM education programs and ongoing and future exhibitions. Advance tickets are $95 per person and $105 at the door. Raffle tickets can be purchased separately and you do not need to be present to win. For more information or to buy tickets, visit artmuseum.org.
Wine & Food Festival 2016
In their twenty-fourth year running, The MSU Billings (MSUB) Foundation hosts this six-day festival to develop funds for future Montana State University Billings scholarships and programming. Seasoned philanthropists, the
LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff
The 7th annual Purple 5K race begins at 9 a.m. Sunday, April 3 at Grandview Park and finishes under Skypoint in downtown Billings.
Wine & Food Festival pre-events offer tasting classes January thru March to prepare festival attendees for the real deal happening in May. Pre-event classes are $60 each per person. For more information, visit winefoodfestival.com or call (406) 657-2244.
Spare Change for Real Change Purple 5K Race
Fight against homelessness this spring by participating in the Spare Change for Real Change Purple 5K Race. Tony Smith Photography The seventh annual race begins at 9 a.m. Sunday, April 3 at Grandview Park and finishes under Skypoint. Early The 2016 Wine & Food Festival, held May 9-14, raises funds for Montana State University Billings scholarships registrants pay $25. and programming. Proceeds benefit the Spare Change for Real Change program, which alleviates homelessness by granting money foundation has supported MSUB students since 1968. From May 9-14, the Wine & Food Festival offers food and to local organizations that offer education, housing, social wine lovers an opportunity to take courses in wine, cooking services and re-integration for the homeless community. Awards will be given to winners in gender and age and hosting successful dinner parties at the MSUB campus. categories. If racing isn’t for you, volunteers are needed Sample wine and food pairings under the Grand tent Friday to guard the course and help with registering participants and indulge in a gourmet dinner Saturday. Experts in these fields share their skill and enthusiasts return year after year the day of the event. Volunteers receive a free T-shirt and refreshments for helping. to learn more. Event packets available for pickup April 1 from 7 a.m. Shane Ryan, Executive Chef of Seattle’s Matt’s in the to 7 p.m. at the Downtown Billings Alliance Office, 2815 2nd Market restaurant offers his expertise in the culinary arts as Avenue North. the festival’s guest chef. Racers and volunteers can register at downtownbillings.com.
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Heritage Home Tour
For 18 years, the Billings Preservation Society’s leading annual fundraiser gives spectators a tour of Billings’ historical homes. On Saturday, May 21 take a stroll through the city’s neighborhoods. Event tickets afford participants a map and a guide book for sightseeing the architectural styles and history of the featured properties. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Visit mossmansion.org or call the Moss Mansion at (406) 256-5100 for more information.
Visitors tour the Loren Entz Gallery at the 2015 Heritage Home Tour. This year’s event, held May 21, will give Billings residents a chance to tour historical homes while supporting the Billings Preservation Society. CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff
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Photos by Bob Zellar of The Gazette Staff This is 48th year of the Yellowstone Art Museum’s Annual Art Auction. Patrons bid on their favorite pieces in 1980 and continue to do so today. The Art Auction 48 exhibit is open until the gala on March 5. See www.artmuseum.org for additional information.
Backlot
Art Auction in the ‘80s
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Make Tickets t Gift A Grea on as Any Se on as Any Re
Bringing the Excitement of the Performing Arts to Big Sky Country
TICKETS ON SALE NOW! ABT Box Office: M-Sat, Noon-5pm | (406) 256.6052
www.AlbertaBairTheater.org See ABT ad inside for MORE artists!
An Evening with Lyle Lovett & Robert Earl Keen
Keen
Lovett
Thursday, March 17 • 7:30
Saturday, March 26 • 7:30 JOHNNY
CASH
ELVIS
PRESLEY
PERKINS LEWIS CARL
JERRY LEE
THE BROADWAY MUSICAL INSPIRED BY
THE ELECTRIFYING TRUE STORY
Monday, March 28 • 7:30
Sunday, April 17 • 3:00