Good Day
Missoula
Friday, January 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Missoula. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 2nd of January.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Elote Mexican Bar and Grille in Southgate Mall will close Sunday, Jan. 4 because it could not secure a full liquor license — locals have this weekend to enjoy its Southern Mexican and Oaxacan dishes one last time. Newstalk KGVO
- ➤ Lee Enterprises, owner of Montana newspapers, announced that billionaire David Hoffmann will lead a $50 million purchase agreement expected to close in the first quarter; his takeover will replace longtime chair Mary Junck and lower long-term debt interest from 9% to 5% for five years. KPAX
- ➤ Elote Mexican Bar and Grille on social media announced it will close permanently on Jan. 4 at Southgate Mall in Missoula after nearly two years of service (it replaced the former Red Robin), citing unsustainable operations without a full liquor license. Missoula Current
- ➤ Missoula’s Elote Mexican Bar and Grill will close its Southgate Mall location this weekend due to challenges obtaining a full liquor license (a key factor). Open for nearly two years, it will offer a full menu through Saturday before its final day on Sunday, Jan. 4. Newstalk KGVO
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ State health officials reported that Montana recorded 765 flu cases from Dec. 14 to Dec. 20, bringing the season total to 2,004; Yellowstone County leads the counts while Missoula reported 26 cases and its first flu death. KPAX
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Ace Sauerwein released his 2026 Big Sky Conference city power rankings with Missoula ranked first among ten cities based on local vibes, travel, food, fans, and fun. The list also ranks Bozeman second and Flagstaff third + it highlights local pride and travel insights. Newstalk KGVO
- ➤ Montana men's basketball returned from break Thursday evening with a win over NAU to open their Big Sky title defense. Their victory sets the tone for the season as they continue Big Sky play. Missoulian
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KPOP Demon Hunters Dance Party
9 p.m. — Monk's Bar — $5 — Get ready to dance and sing the night away with beats from Big Lou and DJ Pan Dulce.
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Jaenga Live Performance
8-11 p.m. — Zootown Arts Community Center — Tickets from $72 — Experience an unforgettable musical event with Jaenga in Missoula.
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Missoula Writes
9:00 – 10:30 AM — Break Espresso — Free to attend — Engage in focused writing alongside fellow local writers in a supportive atmosphere.
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Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons Concert
6:30-7:29 p.m. — Missoula Children's Theatre — Tickets selling fast — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons illuminated by candlelight.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
We suffer more often in imagination than in reality.
~ Seneca
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