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Howdy 2026 — We Made It, Somehow

Well, here we are: it's January, and your snow shovel’s collecting dust while your tulips are starting to get bad ideas. It’s been a warm, dry start to the year — perfect weather for wandering downtown, catching some live tunes, or finally fixing that porch light you swore you'd get to last summer. Whether you're cruising into 2026 with big plans or just hoping your coffee kicks in before noon, we’ve rounded up the best of what’s happening locally this week. No fluff, no frost — just your friendly guide to keeping it real in Billings.

Dry needling is a therapeutic approach to help manage pain that you can add to your chiropractic treatments.

An acupuncture-like needle is inserted into trigger points in the muscle tissue, thereby causing the muscle to relax, increasing blood circulation to the area, diminishing inflammation, and triggering a healing response.

It also improves nerve communication and activates the body’s natural pain relievers.

Patients have noticed an increased recovery time with chronic injuries and pain, and an increased range of motion with multiple treatments.

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Consult with Dr. Hittmeier if dry needling would benefit you, and receive your first 3 sessions at a discounted price. 

3210 Henesta Dr. Suite D

Billings, MT 59102

406-294-5294

Billings' Magic City welcomed 2026 with an unexpected New Year's gift — a baby boy who arrived nearly a month early.

Jer'Aki Mason LaForge made his debut at 10:43 a.m. on January 1st at St. Vincent Regional Hospital, claiming the title of Billings' first baby of 2026.

Big cats are stalking Red Lodge neighborhoods this week, forcing residents to reconsider their daily routines after a viral wildlife camera video grabbed more than 27,000 views on social media.

👋 Hey there, Billings friends!

January doesn’t have to be hibernation season — not when there’s this much happening around town! From laugh-out-loud comedy shows to creative workshops and cozy community nights, there’s a whole lot of local fun ready to warm up your winter. Whether you're making plans with friends or carving out a little time for yourself, here are some can't-miss events to check out this month.

🎭 Laugh Out Loud

• Nate Bargatze: Big Dumb Eyes Tour
  Known for his clean, clever humor and viral Netflix specials, Nate brings a night of laughs to MetraPark — perfect for shaking off those January blues. January 18 @ MetraPark

• Paula Poundstone
  A comedy icon with razor-sharp wit and off-the-cuff brilliance. Expect big laughs and quirky observations on life, parenting, and the absurdities of adulthood. Saturday January 10 @ Petro Theater

🎶 Music & More

• Tom Catmull w/ Lee Calvin
  Intimate and soulful, this folk/acoustic duo offers heartfelt storytelling and toe-tapping tunes at local fave Craft Local. January 9 @ Craft Local

• Kitchen Dwellers
  Montana-grown jamgrass with a high-energy twist — this is one of those shows where you will end up dancing, even if you didn’t plan to. January 29 @ The Pub Station

🕯 Candlelight Concerts: Adele & Queen vs ABBA

January 10 @ Billings Depot
Looking for something a little magical this winter? Step into the warm glow of the Depot for an unforgettable night of music under candlelight. Two tribute shows in one evening: first, the emotional power of Adele’s biggest hits, followed by a fun, high-energy showdown between Queen and ABBA classics. It’s elegant, intimate, and unlike any concert you’ve been to.

🎉 Bison Ball

January 24 @ Billings Depot
Dust off your boots and dress up for a night that blends Montana pride with timeless celebration. The Bison Ball brings together community, students, and supporters in a night of fun, food, and festivities — all set inside the Depot’s gorgeous historic space. A great way to support local spirit and connect with others.

💃 Coming Up: Winter Dance with Yellowstone Ballroom Dance Club

February 12 @ Billings Depot
Get this one on your calendar now! The Depot will be swinging next month with a community dance night full of energy and charm. Hosted by the Yellowstone Ballroom Dance Club, it’s a great excuse to dress up a little, learn some new moves, and enjoy an evening of music and mingling. Whether you’re flying solo or bringing a partner, it’s all about fun.

🌿 Learn & Explore

Montana Green Expo
Calling all gardeners, plant lovers, and eco-curious folks: this weekend-long event is packed with expert-led workshops and sustainable living ideas. January 6–8 @ Billings Hotel & Convention Center 

🍻 Cozy Community Nights

Board Game Night @ Dragon Egg Games
Bring a friend or come solo — it’s all about connection, strategy, and good old-fashioned fun. Every Saturday! 2499 Gabel Rd, Billings, MT

🎭 Spotlight on Alberta Bair Theater

Looking for a classy night out or something inspiring to lift your spirits? The Alberta Bair Theater’s winter lineup is full of feel-good entertainment:

• 🎶 The Magic of Motown
  Saturday, Jan 10 @ 7:30 PM
  Classic soul, sparkling costumes, and big-time energy — this tribute show delivers all the Motown magic.

• 🎤 The Choir of Man
  Thursday, Jan 15 @ 7:30 PM
  A high-energy mix of pub vibes, pitch-perfect vocals, and feel-good fun. You might even get handed a beer!

• 🎻 Billings Symphony: The Magic of Sleeping Beauty
  Fri, Jan 23 @ 7:00 PM & Sat, Jan 24 @ 7:30 PM
  The symphony brings this classic fairytale to life with a full orchestral performance — a perfect mix of elegance and enchantment.

Billings Police officers recently earned the department's highest honors for their heroic actions during a life-threatening summer standoff.

💫 Wrapping It Up

From Motown magic to cozy game nights and everything in between, January is off to a vibrant start here in Billings. Whether you're heading out for live music, planning a theater night, or just trying something new — there's no shortage of ways to stay connected and inspired this winter.

And if pain relief is on your radar for 2026, consider chatting with Dr. Hittmeier about dry needling — your first three sessions come at a special discounted rate, just for giving it a try.

Thanks for reading and supporting local life! We'll be back next month with more can't-miss happenings around town.

Stay tuned for next month’s picks — until then, be well and have fun!

Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia 😁