🐍 Yikes...Rattlesnakes Are Out – Stay Alert on the Trails (and in Town)

It’s that time of year—rattlesnakes are awake and active. They’re most often out during warm daylight hours, especially mornings and evenings when temps are comfortable. You might spot them not only on local hiking trails but also right here in the city.

What to Watch For

• Prime times: Spring through early fall, mid-morning to dusk.

• Favorite spots: Sunny trails, tall grasses, and rocky areas.

• Signs: That trademark rattle sound is a warning—stop, step back, and give plenty of space.

If Your Dog Gets Bit

• Keep them calm and restrict movement.

• Carry them out if possible—activity spreads venom faster.

• Get to the vet immediately. Call ahead so they’re ready with antivenom.

If You Get Bit

Stay calm (panic speeds up venom circulation).

• Keep the bite lower than your heart.

• Remove rings, watches, or tight clothing before swelling sets in.

• Call 911 or get to the ER fast—don’t wait.

First Aid Kit Essentials

• Broad elastic bandage (to immobilize limbs)

• Antihistamines (for allergic reactions while waiting for help)

• A marker or pen (to note swelling progress for doctors)

• Plenty of water

Do NOT try to suck out venom, cut the wound, or use a tourniquet. Those old cowboy movie tricks cause more harm than good.

Stay alert out there, enjoy the trails, and remember—most rattlesnakes would rather avoid you than fight. Give them room, keep pups on leash, and everyone makes it home safe.

🌻 5 Ways to Soak Up the Last of Summer

• Evening Walks Along the River – Cooler nights, softer sunsets.

• Farmers Market Haul – Fresh corn, late berries, and sunflowers for the table.

• Host a Backyard Happy Hour – Simple snacks, iced drinks, twinkle lights.

• Day Trip to Red Lodge – Stroll, shop, grab ice cream.

• Outdoor Movie Night – Projector + blanket pile + bug spray = memories.

Billings Kiwanis Movie Under the Stars

Enjoy a free family‑friendly outdoor movie night under the stars at ZooMontana. Bring a blanket—concessions support local non‑profits.

The Disco Biscuits – Night 2 of 3

Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025; Time: Evening (TBD); Location: Billings; Admission: Ticketed

Catch The Disco Biscuits for Night 2 of their three‑night residency—expect a vibrant, energetic show from this jam‑rock/funk favorite.

The Disco Biscuits – Night 3 of 3

Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025; Time: Evening (TBD); Location: Billings; Admission: Ticketed

Finish the weekend strong with Night 3 of The Disco Biscuits’ three‑night residency—an energetic and fan‑favorite finale.

Desperate Electric Concert

Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025; Time: 7:00 PM; Location: Thirsty Street Brewing Co., Billings; Admission: Ticketed

Join Desperate Electric for a rock‑centric evening of live music at Thirsty Street Brewing Co.—great tunes and a fun atmosphere.

Burn the Point Classic Car Weekend

Enjoy a nostalgia‑filled weekend with a Friday night cruise parade downtown and Saturday’s classic car show, featuring over 300 cars, vendor booths, music, and food—fun for all ages.

Yellowstone Valley Farmers Market

Stroll through the bustling farmers market featuring fresh produce, delicious food vendors, handmade goods, and a lively community vibe—great for mornings with the family.

Flower Festival

Date: Saturday–Sunday, August 30–31, 2025; Time: Starts 6:00 PM; Location: Billings (venue TBD); Admission: Not specified

Formerly the Sunflower Festival, this reimagined Flower Festival offers a stunning array of floral displays and seasonal ambiance—an inviting evening outing for families.

Billings Mustangs Baseball Game

Enjoy America’s pastime at Dehler Park—theme nights, giveaways, and ballpark treats make Fridays and weekends a hit for the whole family as they cheer on the Mustangs.

Montana Audubon Center — Herpetology Hunt

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Date: Friday, August 29, 2025; Time: Not specified; Location: Montana Audubon Center; Admission: ~$5, free for members

Explore wetland wildlife in this guided Herpetology Hunt—kids and families will love discovering frogs, toads, and other critters in a hands‑on, educational setting.

If your mornings have been feeling a little… well, “meh,” Jake and Cassidy have just the fix. Along with their kids, this young family is pouring their energy into URSA Coffee Traders, a new local business built on one simple belief: life’s too short for bad coffee.

“Catch them every Saturday at the Yellowstone Farmers Market in downtown Billings, where you can pick up pre-filled bags of their freshly roasted beans to brew at home.” Their striking polar bear logo is hard to miss, but it’s the aroma drifting from their table that really pulls you in.

What makes URSA stand out? It’s coffee done with care, community, and Montana grit. Whether you’re a dark roast die-hard or a casual sipper, this is coffee worth seeking out.

👉 Check them out at the market, follow their journey on Facebook, or explore more at ursacoffeetraders.com.

Support a local family, discover your new favorite brew, and make your mornings a little brighter.