Destination Downtown by Billings Gazette

Winter 2016

D OW N TOW N

Your comprehensive guide to Downtown Billings

Downtown Billings for the Holidays!

HOLIDAY SEASON AT GAINAN’S Let Gainan’s fill your head with visions of Christmas Page 7

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A Very Brockel’s Christmas: Jaci Brockel , store manager of Brockel’s Chocolates, makes the holiday special for her customers ........................................................10-11

Seasonal Events......................................................4-5 Calendar.............................................................. 18-19 Style Watch .........................................................20-21 Feast! ..................................................................22-25 Arts & Culture .................................................... 26-32 dotORG .............................................................. 33-34 Backlot .....................................................................35

Deck the Downtown District: The DBA brings holiday cheer to Billings .........12-13

‘Tis the season to believe, and we believe in downtown Billings! We are happy to welcome you to downtown Billings, our little bit of wonderland for the holidays! Need something just a little different this holiday season for your loved ones? You’ll find it in downtown. Downtown Billings is home to hundreds of small businessmen and women who own and operate an eclectic mix of retail, business and hospitality services. Our merchants have decorated their store fronts and invite you to shop their diverse retail offerings like clothing, furnishings, jewelry, art, shoes, boots, books…the list goes on! You will love the personalized customer service you receive from our downtown businesses. Celebrate and champion local, small business by shopping, playing and staying in downtown Billings this holiday season. And you’ll find excellent programming with our museums, theaters and galleries this season as well. Your support means these excellent offerings and amenities continue in our great city. The smell of gingerbread is in the air! Be sure to join us for the festivities like the Holiday Parade (November 25), and experience an amazing gingerbread house display in downtown, join us for Small Business Saturday (November 26), and the Holiday Artwalk and Christmas Stroll (December 2). Come early or stay late and stroll the vibrant streetscapes that lead to our award-winning cafes, pubs, and restaurants too. You’ll find more information on all this and much more in this issue of Destination Downtown and our downtown Guide and Directory, available at all downtown businesses. Wishing you a joyous and blessed holiday season!

Lisa K. Harmon

Executive Director Downtown Billings Alliance

Destination Downtown is a special advertising section of The Billings Gazette.

feast!

From Commons 1882’s Double Cut Pork Chop to Doc Harper’s Spicy Pickle Martini, downtown Billings has food and drink to satisfy anyone’s palate.

Page 22-25

Cover photo by Hannah Potes of The Gazette Staff

Access Destination Downtown at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections

General Manager Dave Worstell Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau Advertising Manager Shelli Scott

Special Sections Coordinator Spencyr Knatterud Content Editors Tara Cady Darrell Ehrlick Rob Rogers

LIFE-LIKE

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Seasonal Events Holiday Parade Christmas comes early this year as runners of all ages participate in Santa’s Dash for Cash, a pre-parade less-than-one-mile run along the parade route. Every participant is granted a cash prize at the finish line, so make sure you register by noon the day of the parade. The parade begins at 7 p.m., so settle in your seat along the route with a hot drink and warm eat. Visit downtownbillings.com and santasdashforcash.com for more information. Nov. 25, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Under Skypoint

Courtesy of the Downtown Billings Alliance

Billings Symphony’s Nutcracker Ballet An after-Thanksgiving tradition dating back to the late ‘70s, Billings Symphony brings the best local and regional talent to the ABT for another round of celebratory singing and dancing. 115 local dancers and a local children’s choir combine forces through the San Diego Ballet Company and the School of Classical Ballet in Billings for three fun performances of everyone’s favorite festive classic. Nov. 26, 2 & 7 p.m.; Nov. 27, 2 p.m. Alberta Bair Theater

HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff

Holiday ArtWalk & Christmas Stroll

LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff‌

Candlelight Tours at the Moss Picture this: 17 stylishly ornamented Christmas trees, live holiday tunes and glasses of wine waiting to be swirled and sipped. See the mansion in all its regality by the flickering glow of candlelight this December and let your heart be warmed by nostalgic stories of the Moss family. Make your reservation at the Moss Mansion or call 406-256-5100. Tickets are $30 apiece or $55 per couple. Dec. 22, 23, 28-30; 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Moss Mansion

Kick your cabin fever and attend the Holiday ArtWalk and Christmas Stroll this year. Downtown businesses are holding later hours just for your presentpurchasing pleasure. Soak in downtown’s creative spirit and perhaps purchase a masterpiece or Courtesy of ArtWalk Downtown Billings‌ two while carolers and a flash mob entertain the streets. And don’t forget to vote for your favorite gingerbread house displayed in the storefronts while you shop. Dec. 2, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Downtown Billings

Holiday Tours Don’t want to brush off your car and make your way through the snowy slush for a holiday lights tour? Local transportations agencies A-Limo and Total Transportation make it easy, providing the equipment and driver so you and your friends and family can sit back and enjoy the ride. A-Limo offers rides by the hour in one of their car-style or SUV-style limousines. Depending on the vehicle, tours can accommodate 8 to 14 people. Once area residents’ lights go up, it’s time to book your reservation. Tours are BYOB, and can be scheduled through December. Call (406) 252-2536 to reserve your spot. Total Transportation is another viable option, offering tours in anything from a horse-drawn carriage or old-fashioned hay ride to stretch limo, bus or trolley. The number of riders Total Transportation can accommodate is dependent on the vehicle of choice. Tours are available starting after the Holiday Parade through New Year’s. Reservations are required, so call (406) 252-1778 to book your tour today. Gazette Staff‌

DOWNTOWN

Your comprehensive guide to Downtown Billings

Looking for something to do? See the calendar of events on pages 18-19.

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One of several themes for Gainan’s Christmas Dream Home is “Christmastime,” a mid-century modern look for the dining room with vivid greens and bright reds.

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff‌

Let Gainan’s fill your head with

Visions of Christmas ROB ROGERS For The Billings Gazette‌

Really, it all starts with fabric. Gainan’s Flower and Garden Center in downtown Billings is ground zero for Christmas home décor. In November the store opens its Christmas Dream Home to showcase the season’s most popular holiday decorating trends and it’s become a community tradition. Figuring out each year just what those

trends will be can be tricky, said Jim Gainan, the company’s vice president. So he looks to see what fabrics are trending. Fabrics are in everything, like furniture, drapes, clothing and eventually home décor, he explained. By watching fabric he can get a good sense of what colors, textures and

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff‌

Gainan’s “Mystic Lake” theme within their Christmas Dream Home collection features off-white Please see Gainan’s, 8 and shades of blue for its bedroom display.

Gainan’s imagines a world where fall extends into the holiday season with their Christmas Dream Home “Into the Woods” display.

Gainan’s Continued from page 7

styles are going to be popular for the season. Jim then consults with his team and they decide what the four home décor themes will be for their Christmas season. “We then take a corner of the store and we set up the Christmas Dream Home,” he said. With the Dream House they can expertly showcase the different Christmas palettes or “color stories,” Jim said. “Every year people tell us the Christmas season starts for them when the Christmas Dream Home opens,” he said. This year, the four themes include

whimsical, elegant and glitzy, woodsy, “for our area,” Jim says, and the classic Christmas red and green. For 2016, the red is oxblood and the green is a deep jade. Gainan’s has been a Billings mainstay since 1951, when the shop opened on North 30th Street selling flowers, plants and tropical fish. “We’ve always been on North 30th,” Jim said. “This is our third location on the street.” Over the years, Gainan’s has opened locations on the West End and in the Heights. But it’s the downtown store that has always been the flagship that’s carried forward the business’ brand and vision. And it’s kind of a unique brand, Jim said. Gainan’s is an old-school flower shop that happens to sell home décor and furnishings.

“Billings really forms our product mix.” Jim Gainan, Gainan’s vice president

From flowers and fish the store soon started selling candles. And then it added a line of kitchenware. As the product lines expanded, more customers began showing up. The store’s wide range of offerings has grown more or less organically during the years. Other stores around downtown would close and so Gainan’s would buy their inventory. Or a customer would come

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff‌

in looking for something specific and the store would order it in, only to find it become a best seller. “Billings really forms our product mix,” Jim said. The store is a reflection of what the customers want and what they continue to buy. To help customers find just the right items for Christmas, Gainan’s has its “Top Picks” line, items that usually fall into a good value price range. They have a new line of artificial Christmas trees this season from a manufacturer in Europe. Jim is excited about the trees. They look different from the traditional fake tree shoppers typically encounter in big box stores. “They’re very, very natural looking,” he said. Also new this year is an old classic. This

Off-white and oxblood reds define the “Pure & Warm” theme for Gainan’s Christmas Dream Home living room display.

Christmas Gainan’s will be selling poinsettias grown in the store’s own greenhouses, something it’s never done before. In the past the store has sold poinsettias ordered from a nursery. “It’s a big change for us,” Jim said. The store wasn’t happy with the quality of the poinsettias it had sold in the past and so Jim and his team decided to grow their own. They’ve been really happy with the results. “You should see a difference in the blooms,” he said. Also big this year are throwback tree ornaments. Nostalgia always sells well around Christmastime and that’s partic-

ularly true of holiday decorations. Gainan’s has a line of mercury glass or blown glass ornaments that look just like the vintage ones that used to hang on trees in the ‘40s and ‘50s. The vintage ornaments tie in well to some of Gainan’s own aesthetic. The current downtown store was constructed in 1988 and used repurposed material as a way to honor the heritage of both the city and site where the store currently stands. The building’s cornerstones are sandstone blocks from the home that previously occupied the spot on North 30th. The limestone panels from the façade of the original First Bank now adorn the greenhouse. The

store’s finial, the ornamental work on its rooftop, and the wrought-iron railings in its south atrium come from Billings’ famous Old Commercial Hotel. Jim said it’s important to his family that Gainan’s reflect the heritage and culture in Billings. Gainan’s thrives because of community support. “The community makes the place stay,” he said. The store is also an important part of downtown. Gainan’s firmly believes in the shop local mentality and the store works hard to invest in projects, programs and initiatives that support downtown and the businesses there.

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff‌

When more people come downtown to shop everyone benefits, Jim said. He’s excited for Christmas and for the rush of customers it brings. The store works hard to be festive and Jim believe it’s pays off. People come to the store during the holiday season and they feel like they’re stepping into that classic holiday motif. The snow is falling, people are carrying packages, Christmas lights shine from the windows and roofs and children are excitedly laughing at all the displays. “It’s really neat,” Jim said. It requires a lot of work put the pay-off is worth it. “By the time it comes, we’re ready.”

A Very Brockel’s Christmas

‌T

ROB ROGERS For The Billings Gazette‌

he eggnog truffles don’t come out until November. Same with the solid chocolate toy soldiers, Santas and snowmen. In fact, Christmas at Brockel’s Chocolates is maybe the best Christmas there is. “Oh, it’s delicious,” said Jaci Brockel, who runs the store. Jaci is daughter of Gary and Patti Brockel, the store’s owners and creators. Brockel’s Chocolates offers a number of special holiday treats – like the eggnog truffles – that only come out when the holly and tinsel go up. One of the most popular is the store’s homemade cashew brittle. “We want it to be special,” Brockel said. “Just for Christmas.” The brittle is loaded with cashews. It’s decadent, Jaci said. She wants the treat to feel like an event since it only comes out once a year. During the holidays, the store also expands its line of fudge, something for which Jaci is particularly proud. “We don’t make our fudge in a machine,” she said. Rather, it’s still made by hand in big copper kettles with a raw form of chocolate known as chocolate liquor. Oh yes, chocolate liquor. “It’s not what you think,” Jaci said with a laugh. Chocolate liquor, which is different than chocolate liqueur, the alcoholic chocolate syrup your great uncle likes to drink, is the base ingredient for chocolate. When cocoa beans are fermented, dried and roasted they’re ground into a paste, which is then melted down into the liquor. The liquor is cooled and molded into blocks and purchased by candy makers like Brockel’s. Many varieties of fudge are made from chocolate already in candy form. Brockel’s instead uses the raw chocolate liquor to give its fudge a richer and deeper chocolate flavor. “Our customers appreciate the difference,” Jaci said. Brockel’s has an intense and loyal fan base. Back in 2011, the store shut down for a few months on doctor’s orders after Gary Brockel was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a type of bone cancer. Gary was no longer able to keep up with demand. When the store reopened on Valentine’s Day 2012 crowds of customers were waiting. Jaci said her dad is doing well. Unfortunately, his cancer hasn’t gone into remission but he hasn’t needed chemotherapy for three years, which is a blessing, she said.

LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff‌

Christmas really doesn’t arrive until you’ve stopped at Brockel’s Chocolates, where store manager Jaci Brockel works to make the holiday special for customers.

“We’ve been really lucky,” she said. And she means it, despite her own brush with cancer last year. Jaci was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2015. It was a little scary, she said. But the support was incredible. Doctors operated on her twice and she then underwent rounds of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. The store had to close its doors for nearly a month between July and August. Customers, fans and friends responded by plastering the front door of the business with notes of support and love. “We really do have the best customers,”

Jaci said. Clearly, the community wants to see Brockel’s continue to make chocolate forever. Jaci said they count on that support and because of it, in a certain way, it helps them continue on – especially while battling cancer and other health setbacks (Patti had back surgery last year). They love what they do and having the work to focus on helps them to see what really matters. “It’s best to keep busy,” Jaci said. “You have a purpose.” All that customer love might be most apparent during Christmas. The Brockels are

at their busiest and the store crackles with a bright and cheerful atmosphere as customers bustle in and out, picking up their chocolates and special holiday treats. “It gets crazy in here,” Jaci said, smiling. “And it’s fun to see everybody come in.” She’s in front working the counter with help from her niece Diane and longtime employee Laurie, who got roped in to the family business by virtue of being the Brockel’s neighbor. Gary and Patti, along with their daughter Jodi, are in the back, making the chocolates and other confections.

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff

The store, which opened in 1978, has always been something of a family affair. Part of the Christmas charm Brockel’s brings to the holidays is the free gift-packaging and gift-wrapping they offer – packaging that, like the chocolates, is done by hand in the store. It’s a little thing, Jaci said, but the customers notice. Jaci likes to joke that she works the counter because she’s no good making the edibles. It’s a little self-deprecation that obscures some of her best talents. Jaci ties all the bows for the store’s gift packaging, something at which she excels. It all adds to the Brockel’s charm. Christmas comes and the store becomes a holiday wonderland. As snow falls, light spills from the storefront and customers come in looking for their eggnog truffles and cashew brittle, ordering their handmade fudge and solid-chocolate snowmen. Packages are giftwrapped with one of Jaci’s bows and the customers are sent on their way, laden with the best Brockel’s has to offer. Christmas really doesn’t arrive until you’ve stopped at Brockel’s.

Cream caramel truffles are freshly made at Brockel’s Chocolates in downtown Billings.

Jaci Brockel hand-wraps a box of chocolates at Brockel’s Chocolates. HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff‌

Deck the Downtown District TARA CADY tcady@billingsgazette.com‌

The DBA brings holiday cheer to Billings

‌The illuminated pine trees, storefronts and light poles scattered across downtown Billings promise more than just one magical night with Santa. They ensure several weeks of community gatherings under the magnificent Skypoint, prompting even the most “bah-humbug” type of people to join in the festivities. The backdrop of colored bulbs along 2nd Avenue, North 29th Street and Broadway Avenue that set the scene for events like the annual Holiday Parade and Christmas Stroll wouldn’t be possible without the help of the Downtown Billings Alliance. Not only does the DBA organize these events, but it does all of the behind-the-scenes work to ensure enchanted evenings throughout the winter months.

Decorating duties‌

“Decorating downtown goes back before the DBA took over in ’95,” said Lisa Harmon, DBA executive director. “In ’99 we celebrated 50 years of decorating.” This year marks the 67th year of downtown decorations. In the week leading up to the Holiday Parade, DBA director of operations Joe Stout rallies together his troops (purple people included) for several days’ worth of pressure washing and replacing thousands of light bulbs, renting a bucket truck and doing all of the electrical wiring required to illuminate downtown Billings. “We pay the electric bill,” said Harmon, emphasizing that the DBA welcomes sponsors, decoration donations and volunteers to help offset the cost. Proceeds from the DBA’s fundraising efforts at HarvestFest benefit downtown holiday decorating, too. To help with the fundraising initiative, contact Joe Stout at joes@downtownbillings.com.

Holiday Parade‌

For 32 years Billings has celebrated the beginning of the holiday season with a parade. This year is no different, and the DBA has selected the theme, “Parade of Trees,” for the Nov. 25 event in an effort to represent diversity among people. More than 100 floats will don the special pines, and downtown businesses will also decorate their storefronts accordingly. A wreath is hung over North Broadway for the holiday season in November 1992. Gazette file photo‌

Courtesy of the Downtown Billings Alliance‌

For 32 years Billings has celebrated the beginning of the holiday season with a parade.

New this year are the parade marshals, several finalists of the DBA’s “Battle of the Plans” economic development contest. With the enthusiasm of downtown business leaders – including the DBA – Billings is set to brighten up Black Friday. And with that much holiday spirit, it’s guaranteed to foster a White Christmas. For more information including a parade map, go to downtownbillings. com.

Christmas Stroll‌

hold later hours to accommodate the Stroll’s crowd. In addition to eggnog, Stroll-goers will find other holiday favorites like hot cocoa, roasted nuts and Christmas trees for sale. Take a selfie with Santa, check out masterpieces of a variety of media and order some grub fresh from one of Billings’ food trucks. But don’t forget to vote for your favorite gingerbread house. A continuation of what began last year, teams of professional architects, chefs and bakers are back again, competing for the best gingerbread house award. The entries will be on display the week leading up to the Stroll in empty downtown storefronts. The winning team receives a $500 donation to the charity of their choice. With so many opportunities for fun, it’s important to plan ahead. Print your vendor map from downtownbillings.com to strategize your stroll route.

There’s plenty to be grateful for this holiday season. Downtown’s Christmas Stroll is a prime example. A community of carolers, flash mobs, art enthusiasts and savvy shoppers gather together for one night of holiday consumerism and culture at its finest. The Stroll and Holiday ArtWalk coincide from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 2 to bring the best local art and inventory to Billings. “Everyone looks forward to Montague’s eggnog,” said Natasha Potratz, DBA director of arts and ‌Christmas Light Bike Ride The Christmas Light Bike Ride. events, noting that participating downtown businesses specifically Never heard of it? We’re not surprised.

“There are some organically grown events,” said Harmon, specifically talking about the lesser-known bike ride. Starting around 6 p.m. Dec. 16, Joe Stout’s band of bicyclists begin a 4 to 5-mile trek around the city with everything from their spokes to winter garments decorated for the holidays. “It’s quite the spectacle with all of the lights on the bikes,” said Harmon. “It’s like our own parade.” The ride starts at Rockets, and also ends downtown. Areas covered include Christmas Wreath Lane and Candy Cane Lane. For more information, check the DBA’s and Pedal United’s Facebook pages. If you haven’t noticed, ‘tis the season to be in downtown Billings.

A 4 to 5-mile bicycle trek around Billings to see Christmas lights begins at Rockets around 6 p.m. on Dec. 16. Courtesy Photo‌

DOWNTOWN

Your comprehensive guide to Downtown Billings

Love fashion? Get your fix with Style Watch on pages 20 & 21

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Open: Mon - Sat, 4pm - Midnight

‘ Tis the season!

Join your Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale this holiday season!

The Nutcracker Ballet Nov. 26 at 2 pm & 7 pm | Nov. 27 at 2 pm | Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: 256-6052 or albertabairtheater.org

For your tickets: 406.591.9535 • NOVAbillings.org Christmas Cabaret Written by Wendy Carlin & Sondra Baker

James and the Giant Peach

December 9–18, 2016

Book by Roald Dahl, Adapted by David Wood

The Norwegians

Written by C. Denby Swanson

January 6–15, 2017

Holiday Tour of Homes

Dec. 10 | 10-3 pm | Festively Decorated Billings Homes Tickets: 252-3610 or billingssymphony.org

Holiday Pops

Opera Fest, February 11, 2017

March 31, April 1–9, 2017

For the Love of the heArts, February 18, 2017

One-Act Operas: The Scarf and Speed Dating

Opera by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Dec. 31 | 7:00 pm | Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: 256-6052 or albertabairtheater.org

The Scarf by Lee Hoiby Speed Dating by Michael Ching April 28 & 30* and May 6 & 7*, 2017

February 25, 2017

Rockin’ New Year’s Eve

Love, Loss and What I Wore Written by Nora and Delia Ephron

The Magic Flute at Alberta Bair Theater

Dec. 17 | 7:30 pm | Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: 252-3610 or billingssymphony.org

March 10–19, 2017

SUDS Written by Steve Gundersen, Bryan Scott & Melinda Gild

Winter Carnival, March 3, 2017

May 12–27, 2017

Improv Open, March 3 & 4, 2017

School of Rock, July 21-30, 2017

arts & crafts show

December 2nd & 3rd Winterfair is free on Friday from 4–9 p.m., during ArtWalk & Jam at the YAM, and only $1 for non-members on Saturday from 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Handmade art for sale, including pottery, jewelry, clothing, and fine art. A great place to find unique presents!

yellowstoneartmuseum 401 North 27th Street Billings, MT • 406-256-6804 • www.artmuseum.org

Programs for the Entire Family! Tuesday - Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. February through December Featuring Western and

After School, Family, Homeschool and Preschool programs throughout the school year! For more information, go to

mtaudubon.org/center

Native American artifacts from the Yellowstone River Valley and a brand new exhibit now open: “Rip-Roarin’ Good Time: Sin in the Magic City”

Connecting people to place (406) 294-5099 7026 S. Billings Blvd. Find us on Facebook

issUes

Upcoming

Don’t forget to aDvertise in... Call Jana Niemeyer for more information at 406-657-1343 Upcoming 2017 issues: February 24 • May 26 • August 25

Bringing the Exciement of the Performing Arts to Big Sky Country

In the Wind

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! ABT Box Office: M-Sat, Noon-5p.m. (406) 256.6052 | www.albertabairtheater.org

NEW SHANGHAI CIRCUS: JANUARY 8 • 3pm

AMY GRANT: FEBRUARY 1 • 7:30pm

D o n ’t m is s th is e x h ib it !

Montana Motorcycle Memories

Vintage Bikes Historic Photos Memorabilia

2822 Montana Ave. • 406-256-6809 • ywhc.org

DECEMBER Friday, 9 A Christmas Cabaret, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. All American NDN Shootout basketball tournament, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Saturday, 10

NOVEMBER Friday, 25 Native American Heritage Free Day, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Gun Show, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 1-5 p.m. Holiday Parade and Christmas Stroll, downtown Billings, 6-9 p.m. Holiday Parade, downtown Billings,

Venture Improv, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. The Norwegians, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 8 The Norwegians, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. New Shanghai Circus Acrobats, Alberta

JANUARY

The Dixie Swim Club, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 4 Dollar Day, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Billings Symphony presents Northern Lights, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Venture Improv, NOVA Center for the

FEBRUARY

events

Downtown Billings

Thursday, 1 Festival of Trees Gala Dinner & Auction, MetraPark Expo Center, 6 p.m. Merriment at the Moss, Moss Mansion, 6-9 p.m. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 2 Festival of Trees, various events throughout the day, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Winterfair, Yellowstone Art museum, 4-9 p.m. ArtWalk, downtown Billings, 5-9 p.m. Christmas Stroll, downtown Billings, 6-9 p.m. Warren Miller’s 67th Film, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Funky Bunch, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 3 Festival of Trees, various events throughout the day, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Winterfair, Yellowstone Art museum, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Messiah Festival, Alberta Bair Theater, 3:30 p.m. Venture Improv, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Christmas with C.S. Lewis, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 4 Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Messiah Festival, Alberta Bair Theater, 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, 7 Broadway Christmas Wonderland, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 8 Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. All American NDN Shootout basketball tournament, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark

DECEMBER

Saturday, 26 Gun Show, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The Nutcracker, Alberta Bair Theater, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. Sunday, 27 Gun Show, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The Nutcracker, Alberta Bair Theater, 2 p.m.

Friday, 6 Funky Bunch, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. The Norwegians, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 7 Dollar Day, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

JANUARY

Trunks & Treasures Tour, Moss Mansion, 9:30-11:30 a.m. Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Cowboy Christmas Concert, Alberta Bair Theater, 7 p.m. A Christmas Cabaret, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. All American NDN Shootout basketball tournament, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Sunday, 11 A Christmas Cabaret, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Thursday, 15 High Noon Lecture Series, Western Heritage Center, noon A Christmas Cabaret, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 16 A Christmas Cabaret, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 17 Chase Hawks Rodeo, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 7 p.m. Billings Symphony presents Holiday Pops, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. A Christmas Cabaret, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 18 A Christmas Cabaret, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Forever Plaid: Plaid Tidings, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Billings Community Band, Alberta Bair Theater, 3 p.m. Tuesday, 20 The Ten Tenors, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. December 21, 22, 23, 29 and 30 Candlelight Tours, Moss Mansion, 6-9 p.m. Saturday, 31 Zoo Year: A Noon Year’s Eve Celebration, ZooMontana, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Rockin’ New Year’s Eve, Alberta Bair Theater, 8 p.m. Wednesday, 1 Amy Grant, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 3 Jam at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 4-9 p.m. ArtWalk, downtown Billings, 5-9 p.m Crusader’s Feast, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 6-9 p.m. Funky Bunch, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m.

FEBRUARY

Monday, 9 New Shanghai Circus Acrobats, Alberta Bair Theater, 9:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Thursday, 12 The Norwegians, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Honk! Jr., Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 13 The Ennis Sisters, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. The Norwegians, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Honk! Jr., Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 14 Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Family Life Expro, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Honk! Jr., Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Jeff Dunham, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 5 p.m. The Norwegians, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 15 The Norwegians, NOVA Center for the Performing Arts, 2 p.m. Honk! Jr., Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Thursday, 19 Art Auction 49 Opening Reception, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, 20 Great Rockies Sportshow, MetraPark Expo Center, 12-8 p.m. FAM at the YAM, Yellowstone Art Museum, 5-7 p.m. Saturday, 21 HBA Building and Remodeling Expo, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Great Rockies Sportshow, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Fractured Fairy Tales, Alberta Bair Theater, 12 p.m. Sunday, 22 HBA Building and Remodeling Expo, MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Great Rockies Sportshow, MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday, 24 Soul Street Dance, Alberta Bair Theater, 9:30 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Saturday, 28 Saturday Night Fever, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. The Dixie Swim Club, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 5 The Dixie Swim Club, Billings Studio Theatre, 1 p.m. Tuesday, 7 Barefoot in the Park, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 9 The Dixie Swim Club, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 10 1964 The Beatles Tribute, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. The Dixie Swim Club, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. All Class Wrestling Tournament, Rimrock Auto Arena at Metra Park Saturday, 11 Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10a.m.-12 p.m. OperaFest, Yellowstone Country Club, 6 p.m. The Dixie Swim Club, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. All Class Wrestling Tournament, Rimrock Auto Arena at Metra Park Sunday, 12 The Dixie Swim Club, Billings Studio Theatre, 2 p.m. Tuesday, 14 Valentine’s Day Free Day, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The Sleeping Beauty, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 16 The Dixie Swim Club, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Friday, 17 The Dixie Swim Club, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. The Irish Rovers, Alberta Bair Theater, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 18 The Dixie Swim Club, Billings Studio Theatre, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, 22 Eastern A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 12-8 p.m. Thursday, 23 Eastern A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 12-8 p.m Friday, 24 Eastern A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 9 a.m.-8 p.m Saturday, 25 Eastern A Divisional Boys & Girls Basketball, Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark, 9 a.m.-8 p.m Two-Color Watercolor with Jason Jam, Yellowstone Art Museum, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The Magic Flute, Alberta Bair, 7:30 p.m.

Style Watch Photos by Casey Page of The Gazette Staff

These Seychelles brown leather boots were made for making you look great – and you’re in luck, they also come in black. Continue the accessorizing with KBD Studio bracelets and matching purse, highlighting that three textures are better than one when it comes to fashion. Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Boots: $159 Bracelets: $36-48 Purse: $189

Beat the bitter Montana cold with a brown leather jacket by Scully. With comfort and class in mind, this multifunctional outerwear ensures warmth while looking your best. Pair it with your best pair of jeans, like those from 34 Heritage, on your next winter outing. Available at Desmonds Jacket: $595 Jeans: $165

‘Tis the season for holiday parties. Whether it’s a work function or a New Year’s Eve ball, this 100-percent wool sport jacket by Ibiza is sure to turn heads at whatever formal event you attend. Add a navy, brown and off-white plaid button-up by David Donahue to complete the look. Available at Desmonds Jacket: $475 Button-up: $135

Fall is out, and corduroy is in. These velvety maroon pants and matching belt beg to be brought to your next holiday outing. Pair them with a plaid scarf and you’re set to make a statement. Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Pants: $188 Scarf: $29 each

This MontanaCo leather vest is edgy yet versatile enough to go with any sweater, like a toffee colored one by BACKDROP, layered atop a white long sleeve by tsquared. Complement the pieces with a patterned skirt by Krimson Klover and you’ve got a great winter look. Add a leather tassel necklace for an extra bit of edge. Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Vest: $157 Sweater: $86 Long sleeve: $57 Skirt: $144 Necklace: $46

Always open Sundays 12 – 4 Shop Local, Shop Downtown 2814 2nd Avenue North Billings, MT 59101

406-259-3624

Feast

Doc Harper’s

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff

Good Earth Market

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff

Commons 1882

Stella’s

LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff

A directory of the best food Downtown Billings has to offer.

Once you slice your knife into Commons 1882’s Double Cut Pork Chop, you’ll release the aromas of a finely cooked meat just begging to be devoured. The 10-oz. cut of pork is best enjoyed with braised cabbage, bacon, spinach, potatoes and apple mustard jus.

LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff

404 N. 30th St.

3024 2nd Ave. N.

116 N. Broadway

2525 1st Ave. N.

Good Earth Market stays true to its name, featuring fresh foods in their Deli and Café like this ham, apple and brie sandwich. Complete your meal with colored tortilla chips and a fruit smoothie for a lunch you can enjoy up to the last bite.

Prepare for puckered cheeks with Doc Harper’s spicy pickle martini, the perfect blend of Smirnoff, pickle brine, dry vermouth and red chile flakes. It’s just what the doctor ordered.

Stella’s Sunday brunch is worth the wait. Stacked pancakes — even of the gluten-free variety — make for the best late-morning meal. And if you’re a glutton for punishment, try eating four of Stella’s monster pancakes for a free cinnamon roll to-go.

HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff‌

The Rex

BOB ZELLAR/Gazette Staff

Gazette Staff‌

Pug Mahon’s

Guadalajara

3011 1st Ave. N.

2401 Montana Ave.

17 N. 29th St.

“The pork chop sandwich—it’s what we do.” That’s what owner Bill MacIntyre says of his “world’s best” fare. Listen closely for legendary tales while enjoying feelgood food in a down-home atmosphere.

Be like the bears here in Montana and fill up on some of the finest grub before you hibernate for the winter. The Rex’s steaks fill you up, but not so much that you won’t want seconds. Pair the finest cut of choice beef with a holiday drink and dessert for the dinner of your dreams.

Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant features gourmet fare with family dining flair in the heart of downtown Billings. A fan favorite for more than 30 years, Guadalajara keeps it fresh. Looking for the perfect winter warm-up? Try their chicken tortilla soup topped with fresh avocados.

Billings Monument Co.

Cemetery Memorials Mausoleums Markers Inscription Bronze Plaques Pre-Need Arrangements

245-3391 • 1-888-498-3319

Jake’s

Gazette Staff‌

Rock Creek Coffee Roasters

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff‌

Proudly Serving Billings & Surrounding Areas For Over 100Years

124 N. Broadway

2701 1st Ave. N.

Sit, relax, and enjoy watching downtown from one of the corner spots of Skypoint, where Rock Creek has been roasting coffee since 2004. Try one of their worldly coffees, from the beans of Colombia, Costa Rice or Burundi, Monday through Saturday for a taste of early-morning happiness.

The holidays are prime time for prime rib at Jake’s Downtown. This mouthwatering cut of slow-roasted meat with Jake’s own blend of spices is best paired with wine and your choice of potato. Don’t forget to save room for dessert.

3823 Montana Avenue • Billings, MT 59101

Geering Co.

health & home Finest Quality Stoves from Around the World

• Wood • Gas • Cool • Pellet Stoves & Inserts 3823 Montana Avenue

252-2068

1-888-252-2068 www.geeringco.com

10:00-5:30 Mon.-Fri. 10:00-5:00 Sat. Building commun ities worldwide for over 25 years. Nonprofit Fair Tra de

Great Holiday Gifts From Around the World Jewelry • Baskets • Textiles • Clothing • Instruments • Music Kitchenware • Pottery • Chocolate • Coffee • Tea www.globalvillagebillings.org • 259-3024

Feast A directory of the best food Downtown Billings has to offer.

x Featured restaurants are marked with a shaded box.

B-Town Grill 115 N. 29th Street (406) 969-6328 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 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 Good Earth Market 3024 Second Ave. N. (406) 259-2622

Pug Mahon’s 3011 First Ave. N. (406) 259-4190 Rockets Gourmet Wraps & Sodas 2809 First Ave. N. (406) 248-5231 Soup and Such 2716 Third Ave. N. (406) 294-0148 Stacked: A Montana Grill 106 N. Broadway (406) 534-8702

Stella’s Kitchen & Bakery 2525 First Ave. N. (406) 248-3060

Coffee/Specialty Shops 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 City Brew 1131 N. 27th St. (406) 294-4620 Ebon Coffee Collective 2712 2nd Ave. N. (406) 431-4522 Le Lustré Cakes 2719 First Ave. N. (406) 702-1211 Log Cabin Bakery 2401 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-0389 MoAV Coffee House 2501 Montana Ave.

Rock Creek Coffee Roasters 124 N. 28th St. (406) 896-1600

Gracias Gracias Amigos Amigos

S GAZE ING TT LL

A Family Mexican Restaurant Serving Lunch & Dinner

Harper & Madison 3115 10th Ave. N. (406) 281-8550 Hog Wild Cafe/Party Pig Catering 204 N. 22nd St. (406) 839-3154 Lisa’s Sandwich Den 2908 First Ave. N. (406) 252-4282 McCormick Café 2419 Montana Ave. (406) 255-9555 Perkins 825 N. 27th St. (406) 248-8320 Pita Pit 2813 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-7482

Casual Cuisine

2016 READERS’ CHOICE

WINNER B

OF BILLI

Visit Our Newly Remodeled

DOWNTOWN LOcATION 17 North 29th Street

DOWNTOWN – 17 North 29th Street HEIGHTS – 1403 Main Street WESTEND – 1223 Grand Avenue

259-8930 245-2151 652-5156

LAUREL – 216 1st Avenue South HAVRE – 335 1st Street

628-4117 265-1852

Starbucks 27 N. 27th St. (in Crowne Plaza) (406) 252-7400 Velvet Cravings 225 N. Broadway (406) 294-0308

Ethnic Cuisine‌ The Athenian 18 N. 29th St. (406) 248-5681 Café Italia 2417 Montana Ave (406) 896-9700 Cham Thai & Cuisine 2916 First Ave. N. (406) 256-1812 Ciao Mambo 2301 Montana Ave (406) 325-5100 Don Luis 15 N. 26th St. (406) 256-3355

Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant 17 N. 19th St. (406) 259-8930 Guido’s Pizza 3005 First Ave. N. (406) 259-1041 Imperial Thai Cuisine 216 N. Broadway (406) 696-3330 La Tinga 113 N. 30th St. (406) 969-8828 Mamacita’s Café 304 N. 19th St. (406) 252-9950

NaRa Restaurant 3 Custer Ave. (406) 245-8866 Sarah’s Mexican Food 310 N. 29th St. (406) 256-5234 Shanghai Village 2926 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-6887 Wild Ginger 2713 Montana Ave. (406) 252-4486

Commons 1882 404 N. 30th St. (406) 254-1882

Daisy Dukes 222 N. Broadway (406) 201-8725

Double Tree Montana Sky 27 N. 27th St. (406) 252-7400 The Fieldhouse 2601 Minnesota Ave., Suite 3 (406) 534-2556

Doc Harper’s 116 N. Broadway (406) 200-7177

Jake’s 2701 First Ave. N. (406) 259-9375

Fast Food‌

Bagel Inc. 3012 Fourth Ave. N. (406) 254-0445 Burger King 520 N. 27th St. (406) 245-7911 Hardee’s 608 N. 27th St. (406) 259-3344 Jimmy John’s 122 N. Broadway (406) 281-8282 Kentucky Fried Chicken 719 N. 27th St. (406) 259-2641

Juliano’s 2912 Seventh Ave. N. (406) 248-6400 Lilac 2515 Montana Ave. (406) 969-4959 TEN 19 N. Broadway (406) 867-6767

Fine Dining‌

Sports Bars—Bars—Pubs‌

Bistecca at the Granary 1500 Poly Drive (406) 259-3488 Billings Petroleum Club 27 N. 27th St, 22nd Floor (406) 252-6700 Bin 119 119 N. Broadway (406) 294-9119

The Rex 2401 Montana Ave. (406) 245-7477 Walkers American Grill & Tapas Bar 2700 First Ave. N. (406) 245-9291 Angry Hanks 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

Hooligan’s Sports Bar 111 N. Broadway (406) 259-3328 Montana Brewing Co. 113 N. Broadway (406) 252-9200 The Pub Station 2502 First Ave. N. (406) 894-2020 The Rainbow Bar 2403 Montana Ave. (406) 259-0047 Rock Pile 1207 N. 27th St. (406) 245-5985 Thirsty Street Brewing Co. 3008 First Ave. N. thirstystreet.com Tiny’s Tavern, Inc. 323 N. 24th St. (406) 259-0826 Trailhead Spirits 2314 Montana Ave. (406) 969-1627 Uberbrew 2305 Montana Ave. (406) 534-6960 Yellowstone Valley Brewing Company 2123 First Ave. N. (406) 245-0918

28th Annual

All-You-Can-Eat

any time of the year!

Lunch & Dinner Specials Daily

Book Your Christmas Events Now! 404 N. 30 St. th

Commons1882.com

Pre-order your holiday goodies today!

Adults $895 · Children (under 10) $495 55 Plus $695

Friday, November 25th 11am-6pm Lunch & Dinner

2525 1 Ave N • 248-3060 at the CloCktower Inn Downtown BIllIngs st

Open Mon.-Sat. 5:30am-5pm • Sun. 7am-1pm Breakfast Only

S GAZE ING TT LL

254-1882

Fruit Pies • Specialty Pies Assorted Cheese Cakes Cookie Trays Gluten Free & Sugar Free Baked Goods Famous Cinnamon Rolls Gift Baskets & Gift Certificates

Includes salad, bread & dessert

Fresh, Baked Goods make the Perfect Gift

Spaghetti & Ravioli Lunch & Dinner Feast!

2016 READERS’ CHOICE B

OF BILLI

BEST

BREAKFAST BREAKF

10 YEARS

Arts & Culture

Check out the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite free performance, the Messiah Festival, Dec. 4 at the Alberta Bair Theater.

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff

‌ALBERTA BAIR THEATER

Broadway Christmas Wonderland

Listen up! The jingle bells are ringing and Santa’s sleigh is just around the bend. It’s time to rock around the proverbial Christmas tree with the cast of Broadway Christmas Wonderland. Featuring hit holiday classics like “White Christmas,” “O Holy Night,” and “Deck the Halls,” it’s time to be merry and truly Warren Miller’s 67th Film Long before the GoPro, Warren Miller captured professional feel the holiday spirit. Date & Time: Dec. 7 at 7:30 p.m. skiers on video among the most mesmerizing slopes and freshLocation: ABT est powder North America has to offer. His legacy of narrated Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairfilms continues, highlighting winter sports in various locales theater.org including Crested Butte, Kicking Horse, B.C., Squaw Valley and Fenway Park in this 67th annual Warren Miller film. Cowboy Christmas Concert Date & Time: Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m. Grab your red and green flannel shirt and festive belt Location: ABT buckle and mosey down to the ABT, where western music Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairmeets winter wonderland. Red Lodge’s very own High Country theater.org Cowboys mix Christmas and country for two hours of feel-good classic hits. Make sure to bring the kiddos; children six and younger are free. Christmas with C.S. Lewis Date & Time: Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. Turn back time with award-winning author C.S. Lewis and Location: ABT discover the magic behind his craft amidst the magic that is Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairthe holiday season. Best known for “The Chronicles of Narnia,” theater.org Lewis tells of his friendship with equally-famous J.R.R. Tolkien, how he came to write beloved children’s stories, and what BritThe Ten Tenors ish Christmas traditions mean to him. It might not be July, but Australia’s bringing Christmas Date & Time: Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m. cheer from down under anyway. Join The Ten Tenors as they Location: ABT perform festive favorites like “Joy to the World,” “Amazing Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheGrace” and “Feliz Navidad” in rockin’ operatic style. ater.org Date & Time: Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairMessiah Festival theater.org This Dec. 4, join four soloists and a volunteer community choir in song, supporting St. Vincent Healthcare’s Meadowlark House, a free “home away from home” for traveling cancer patients and their families. Interested participants can attend one of three rehearsals Dec. 2 at 7 p.m. at the American Lutheran Church, Dec. 3 at 2:30 p.m. at the Mayflower Congregational Church or 2 p.m. the day of To view all current and upcoming movie showings at the Art the event at the First United Methodist Church. House Cinema & Pub, log on to arthousebillings.com. Date & Time: Dec. 4 at 3:30 p.m. Location: ABT Tickets: Free—no ticket required; contact Heather Bergeson at (406) 237-3638 or heather.bergeson@svhmt.org for more information.

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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

BILLINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Billings Public Library offers expanded programs for all, from infants to seniors. Try the knitting circle or tangle group, take a class on computer basics or join a creative writing group for teens or adults. For a detailed list of classes, events and other offerings, see billingslibrary.org.

BILLINGS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & CHORALE The Nutcracker

For more than 30 years the Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale has kick-started the holiday season Thanksgiving weekend with Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker Ballet.” Featuring dancers from both the San Diego Ballet Company and Billings’ very own School of Classical Ballet, this local rendition combines the talents of the BSO&C, regional dancers and Billings-area children’s choruses for two days of profoundly entertaining performances. Date & Time: Nov. 26 at 2 & 7 p.m.; Nov. 27 at 2 p.m. Location: Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff‌ albertabairtheater.org It’s a Billings tradition to attend at least one of the Nutcracker performances Thanksgiving weekend at the Alberta Bair Theater.

Ready to Get Away... Convenient Downtown Location! Come stay for

65 a Night!

as little as $

(before taxes)

124 N. Broadway 406-896-1600 Open Mon.-Fri. 6am to 6pm Sat. 7am-3pm

Special Holiday Offer for Gazette Customers! www.rockcreekcoffee.com/bg1

• Near Shopping • Dining • Arts & Entertainment • Free Continental Breakfast

823 N. Broadway Billings, MT North 28th Street at 9th Avenue, across the street from Billings Clinic

406-252-5603 800-237-5882 www.billingscherrytreeinn.com

Holiday Pops

Special guest Laura Woyasz, known for her role as Glinda in Broadway’s “Wicked,” joins the Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale for a fun night of festive favorites like “All I Want for Christmas,” “My Favorite Things,” and “Do You Hear What I Hear?” Keep the holiday magic alive and attend this must-see collaboration. Date & Time: Dec. 17 at 7:30 p.m. Location: Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org

CROOKED LINE STUDIO

The Norwegians

For upcoming classes at Crooked Line Studio, log on to crookedlinestudio.com.

THE PUB STATION

Rockin’ New Year’s Eve

Ring in 2017 with three of Billings’ best bands. Billings Symphony presents The Bucky Beaver Ground Grippers, The Midlife Chryslers and Ellen and the Old School for the most exciting night of the year, when it’s okay to both celebrate another year gone by as well as new beginnings. Date & Time: Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. Location: Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org

Northern Lights

Violinist Simone Porter joins the Billings Symphony for a beautiful rendition of Mendelssohn’s “Violin Concerto” and Sibelius’ “Symphony No. 2.” Porter comes with a wealth of musical experience, having debuted her skill at age 10 and continued to perfect her craft with well-known orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Florida Orchestra. Date & Time: Feb. 4 at 7:30 p.m. Location: Alberta Bair Theater Tickets: Call ABT at (406) 256-6052 or visit albertabairtheater.org

NOVA CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING METRAPARK ARTS A Christmas Cabaret

Sondra Baker and Wendy Carlin’s Christmas Cabaret leaves you no choice but to erase “bah humbug” from your vocabulary as you begin to mouth your favorite cabaret tunes and tap your feet in sync with the holiday music. Date & Time: Dec. 9-18 Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: Call NOVA at or (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org

interiors

Furnishings

22nd Annual Chase Hawks Roughstock Invitational Rodeo

The best stock and the rowdiest of cowboys selected from top American and Canadian standings gear up for a night of classic rodeo delight. A happenin’ event since 1995, it’s an event every Western man and woman can’t afford to miss. Date & Time: Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. Location: Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Tickets: Available at metrapark.com

Enjoy lunch or dinner at The Rex

Original Art Interior Design

fine art . fine furniture . fine living Billings, MT 59101

The former Greyhound Bus Station at 2502 1st Ave. N. in downtown Billings was converted and opened as a concert venue in late 2014. Serving beer, wine and hard cider, the venue offers local and national acts with several performances each week. For more information or tickets, see 1111presents. com/events-at-pub-station.

Gallery

2814 2nd Ave N

Dark humor takes the Black Box Theater stage in January. Singles and couples alike will laugh at the comedic interaction between the characters, scorned Minnesotan women and the Norwegian gangster-hitmen they hire to hurt their ex-boyfriends. Date & Time: Jan. 6-15 Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: Call NOVA at or (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org

406-248-2001

www.galleryinteriorsmt.com

Private Room Available for Groups up to 100 People 2401 Montana Ave • 245-7477

www.therexbillings.com

Family Life Expo

Get all of your needs met and more with the convenience of Billings-area professionals gathering together for a one-day resource fair. Services represented include healthcare, finance, real estate, insurance, education, retirement planning, travel, recreation and career planning. Date & Time: Jan. 14 at 10 a.m. Location: MetraPark Expo Center Tickets: Available at metrapark.com

Jeff Dunham live

Experience Jeff Dunham’s cherished comedy set inperson with his famous puppet characters Walter, Achmed, Bubba J, Peanut and Jose Jalapeno as Dunham effortlessly switches personalities via ventriloquism and improvisation. Date & Time: Jan. 14 at 5 p.m. Location: Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark Tickets: Available at metrapark.com

Building & Remodeling Expo

It only takes a few wintry months of being cooped up inside to start reimagining your home. The Home Builders Association of Billings presents the Building & Remodeling Expo, a timely reminder that every home improvement or remodeling project starts with a dream. Local builders, landscapers and designers provide homeowners two days to start planning their next project. Date & Time: Jan. 21-22, 10 a.m. Location: MetraPark Montana Pavilion Tickets: More information available at billingsbuildingexpo.com and hbabillings.net

The Great Rockies Sportshow

For 32 years, the Great Rockies Sportshow has prompted Billings-area residents to start their outdoor adventure early. With an emphasis on all things Montana, there’s plenty of toys and gadgets to choose from once the snow melts and the waters warm. From fishing and hunting gear to ATVs, RVs and boats, the show caters to every outdoorsman’s dream. Date & Time: Jan. 20-22, 10 a.m. Location: MetraPark Montana Pavilion Tickets: More information available at greatrockiesshow.com

WESTERN HERITAGE CENTER In the Wind: Montana Motorcycle Memories

Are you ready to go “In the Wind?” Explore the story of motorcycling in Montana with this exciting exhibit featuring vintage bikes, memorabilia, gear and advertising. Delve into biker culture with vocabulary and phrases, motorcycle etiquette and personal memories. Date & Time: Exhibit on display until Dec. 17 Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

Experience Jeff Dunham’s comedy set in-person Jan. 14 at 5 p.m. at MetraPark’s Rimrock Auto Arena. Courtesy Photo‌

Echoes of Eastern Montana: Stories from an Open Country

Home never rang so true. Rediscover the Yellowstone River Valley and Northern High Plains’ recent past with actual accounts from the people who traversed them. Diaries, family albums and recipes are just part of the story. Compare and contrast as you follow along with entertaining tales, local music and interactive games. Date & Time: Exhibit on display until Dec. 19 Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

Who Owns the Yellowstone River?

Inspired by the curiosity of Bruce Wendt’s West High class, this WHC exhibit highlights water rights as discovered through intensive research. Regional civic leaders, farmers and ranchers, recreationists, local historians and near-theriver residents offer their opinions and concerns, defining just who owns the Yellowstone after all. Date & Time: Exhibit on display until Dec. 19 Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

YELLOWSTONE ART MUSEUM EVENTS & CLASSES Native American Heritage Free Day

In honor of Native American heritage, enjoy free admission to the exhibit the day after Thanksgiving. While everyone else is shopping for Black Friday deals, take the opportunity to see all of the amazing exhibits the YAM has to offer. Date & Time: Nov. 25, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Admission is free; call YAM at (406) 2566804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids ArtWalk & Jam at the YAM

Is your child a fan of watercolors? Sign them up for a Museum admission is free during ArtWalk and Jam at “Prehistoric Christmas” workshop, where they will design a the YAM, so enjoy live music and view the exhibitions. Cash Christmas-themed triceratops head using watercolors based bar and light hors d’oeuvres provided. First drink is free for on exhibiting artist Louis Habeck’s Ephemerality. new member sign-ups and membership renewals. Date & Time: Dec. 10, 10 a.m. to noon Date & Time: Feb. 3, 4 to 9 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $6 for members, $7 for non-members; call Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuYAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more seum.org for more information. information.

Dollar Day

Venture the halls of the museum for just one dollar on the first Saturday of the month. Members get in for free, so take advantage of the opportunity to ring in the new year with the best art in town at a great price. Date & Time: Jan. 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Admission is free for members, $1 for non-members; call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids

Dollar Day

Venture the halls of the museum for just one dollar on the first Saturday of the month. Members get in for free, so take advantage of the opportunity to ring in the new year with the best art in town at a great price. Date & Time: Feb. 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Admission is free for members, $1 for non-members; call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

Docent 2nd Saturday: Art for Kids

The massive exhibit that is Art Auction 49 is inspiring, Does your child have an eye for the abstract? Sign them up to say the least. Young artists can try their hand at molding a for the “First Impressions” workshop. Kids ages 5-12 can design landscape out of clay with the “Make-a-Place” workshop, an an abstract monoprint inspired by the Boundless Visions exhibit. art lesson referencing the work from the auction itself. Date & Time: Jan. 14, 10 a.m. to noon Date & Time: Feb. 11, 10 a.m. to noon Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Winterfair Tickets: $6 for members, $7 for non-members; call Tickets: $6 for members, $7 for non-members; call Save your Black Friday money for the YAM’s Winterfair, YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more a seasonal sale of fine art, pottery, jewelry and clothing from information. information. more than 20 artists. While you shop, enjoy live music in the café from 5 to 8 p.m. and don’t forget to check out the FAM at the YAM Valentine’s Day Free Day exhibits while you’re feeling artsy. Love is in the air at the Yellowstone Art Museum. Make No registration is required for this fun opportunity to Date & Time: Dec. 2, 4 to 9 p.m. & Dec. 3, 10 a.m. to express yourself creatively with your loved ones. The whole your way to YAM and share your love of art with friends and 3 p.m. family. family is invited to art lessons taught by local artists, and Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Date & Time: Feb. 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyone is welcome to come and go as they please. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Admission is free on Friday, $1 on Saturday; Date & Time: Jan. 20, 5 to 7 p.m. Tickets: Admission is free; call YAM at (406) 256-6804 call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for Location: Yellowstone Art Museum or see artmuseum.org for more information. more information. Tickets: $6 for member child, $7 for non-member child; Free member adult; $3 non-member adult; call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

EXHIBITS

Boundless Visions: Selections from the Permanent Collection

Boundless Visions features changing selections from the YAM’s permanent collections, including art from the late-19th century to the present. This long-term exhibition is the only exhibition in Montana where you can learn the region’s artistic story from its beginnings to the present day. Date & Time: Ongoing exhibit Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org

Jill Brody: Hidden in Plain Sight

Uncover the history of our Hutterite friends through the lens of photographer Jill Brody in this intimate display of photographs. Showcasing daily life and how they have deviated from contemporary society, this exhibit exposes the Hutterite way of life in an effort to broaden understanding of a notoriously private colony. Date & Time: Exhibit on display until Dec. 30 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org

Unleashed: Critters from the Permanent Collection

Art Auction 49

Leading up to the main event, featured artists in the 49th annual art auction have their own exhibit, showcasing their creative With animals as their muse, artists draw us closer to animals talents within a variety of media. Take note of your favorite pieces with related artworks showcasing both the wild and the domesfor your chance to make a purchase during the “Quick Draw,” silent ticated kind. Both art and animal lovers will enjoy this critter collection, emphasizing that animals can be as majestic and alive in and live auctions happening March 4. Date & Time: Exhibit on display Jan. 19—Mar. 4 person as they can be in art. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Date & Time: Exhibit on display until Dec. 30 Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org

Ephemerality: Sculptures by Louis Habeck

2015 Artist’s Innovation Award winner and former YAM artistin-residence Louis Habeck presents a collection of pieces of which he started while at the museum’s Visible Vault. The exhibit features in-process works as well as a scale replica of a Triceratops head. Date & Time: Exhibit on display until Dec. 30 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org

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dotORG

Downtown Billings hosts annual fundraisers

31st Annual Festival of Trees

This year, it’s more than the candy popping out of the advent calendar that makes the beginning of December special. Dec. 1 marks the first day of the Festival of Trees, a special three-day event benefiting The Family Tree Center. The MetraPark Expo Center plays host this December, starting with the annual Gala and tree auction at 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1. Proceeds go toward the center’s mission to prevent child abuse and neglect in Yellowstone County. Two full days of festive fun follow the Gala and auction, starting with a special viewing of trees for children and seniors from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 2. Stick around for Tea in the Trees from 1 to 3 p.m. and a public viewing of the trees and Craft and Gift Show from 3 to 8 p.m. Family Fun Night and entertainment starts at 5 p.m., with the night coming to a close at 8 p.m. The festival continues Saturday, Dec. 3 starting at 9 a.m. with a public viewing of trees, entertainment, children’s activities and a Craft and Gift Show. Stay for brunch with Santa from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the MSUB Writer’s Roundup from 12 to 5 p.m. For more information on this special 3-day event, HANNAH POTES/Gazette Staff call (406) 252-9799. This Star Wars themed tree was up for auction at the Festival of

LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff

Mike Eckley carries cooked turkey to be served at the annual Montana Rescue Mission and Billings Food Bank’s Thanksgiving meals.

Thanksgiving: A Community Effort

The Chefs and Cooks of Montana gear up for another week of giving back, preparing 90-plus turkeys and all of the trimmings for everyone in need of a wholesome Thanksgiving holiday meal. Half of what is cooked is donated to the Montana Rescue Mission, while the rest is served at the Billings Food Bank for their annual Thanksgiving Day lunch. At no charge, interested attendees ought to come hungry to 2112 4th Ave. N. 1 to 4 p.m. For more information or to donate or volunteer, call (406) 259-2856.

Trees in 2015.

The

Family Tree Center presents the

31 Annual st

SPECIAL EVENTS Thursday, December 1st Friday, December 2nd

Special Viewing 9am - 11am Craft & Gift Show 3pm - 8pm Public Viewing 3pm - 8pm Entertainment 5pm - 8pm Family Fun Night 5pm - 8pm

$10 in advance or $12 at the door

Saturday, December 3rd

Gala- Dinner & Tree Auction 6pm

Gala Tickets – $75 per person or $800 per reserved table of 8

Tea in the trees 1pm - 3pm

Admission Prices for Friday Family Fun Night & Saturday Events $3 per person 0 per family or $10 A Benefit for Children & Families

WEEKEND ACTIVITIES Friday, December 2nd

(2 adults)

NOECAW TION L

Craft & Gift Show 9am - 6pm Public Viewing 9am - 8pm Arctic Art & Playland 9am - 8pm Entertainment 9am - 8pm Brunch with Santa 11am - 1pm

MetraPark Expo Center December D b r 1st 1 t - 3rd, 3 d, 2016

www.familytreecenterbillings.org

Benefiting The Family Tree Center – Billings Exchange Clubs’ Child Abuse Prevention Center • For more information call (406) 252-9799.

12th Annual Holiday Tour of Homes‌

The holidays are full of traditions, and the Billings Symphony Orchestra and Chorale is proud to have theirs be shared with the rest of the Billings community. Saturday, Dec. 10, join the BSO&C in the 12th annual Holiday Tour of Homes. Enjoy seasonal music courtesy of the BSO&C while partaking in a self-guided tour of the most decorated homes in Billings. Refreshments are available at Prescott Hall at Rocky Mountain College from 10 to 3 p.m., including a special Symphony Holiday tea from 11:30 to 1 p.m. Advance tickets are $25, and $30 the day of the tour. Proceeds benefit the BSO&C. For more information, see billingssymphony.org or call (406) 252-3610. LARRY MAYER/Gazette Staff‌

Batches of Beignets, a sugar-coated, fried dough popular in New Orleans, is just one of the foods featured at the Billings Food Bank’s Twelfth Night Celebration.

Twelfth Night Celebration‌

Every year the Billings Food Bank hosts a Twelfth Night Celebration and 2017 is no different. All-you-can-eat crawfish is at your fingertips – as are napkins, for your convenience. For just $25, dine on shrimp, gumbo and boiled potatoes, too. Meals are prepared by the chefs of the Fortin Culinary Center. With proceeds benefiting the Billings Food Bank, the donation is worth every bite. But be sure to not get too full, because a silent auction and live entertainment follows the crawfish-eating frenzy. Mark your calendars for Friday, Jan. 6 at 5:30 p.m. and call (406) 259-2856 or visit the Billings Food Bank to reserve your spot.

Mardi Gras Montana‌

It’s no coincidence that the Billings Food Bank’s largest fundraiser of the year happens on Fat Tuesday, a day of fun and feasting. Celebrate with the Billings Food Bank Feb. 28 at 5:30 p.m. and have your dinner be a donation to a great cause. The Dixieland band, Second Avenue Stompers, pull out all the stops, ensuring a lively night at the Radisson Hotel. Silent and live auctions contribute to the charity as well. Tickets are $50/person. For more information, call the Billings Food Bank at (406) 2592856. Courtesy Photo‌ Attend the Billings Food Bank’s largest fundraiser of the year, Mardi Gras Montana, and have your dinner be a donation to a great cause on Fat Tuesday, Feb. 28.

Candy cane lights line a portion of North 27th Street in downtown Billings in December 1982. Christmas decorations hang over Third Avenue North in downtown Billings in December 1982.

Backlot

Christmas decorations in downtown Billings, 1982

Christmas lights hang over North 29th Street in downtown Billings in December 1982.

Photos by BOB ZELLAR/ Gazette Staffâ&#x20AC;&#x152;

FT ABT GI TE ICA CERTIF = N BOX CA$H I CE! OFFI

Dec. 7 • 7:30 pm

Your Winter 2016 Performing Arts Palette

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! ABT Box Office: M-Sat, Noon-5pm | (406) 256.6052

www.AlbertaBairTheater.org See inside this issue for MORE performances !

The Ennis Sisters

Buttery harmonies and voices as powerful as the Atlantic

Dec. 20 • 7:30 pm

Jan. 13 7:30 pm

Jan. 28 7:30 pm