Good morning, Missoula.

Donna Gaukler, who worked nearly 50 years with Missoula Parks and Recreation and led projects such as community pools and a skate park, announced she will retire in November—her work has provided fun and safe spaces for everyone.

Missoula International Airport now features modernized facilities, new gates, and ongoing Phase 2 construction—though there is just one pricey food option available.

Travellers should plan for a temporary runway resurfacing closure from 8 a.m. Tuesday September 2 until 3 p.m. Sunday September 7.

University of Montana marketing researcher Jesse King has studied how pharmaceutical ads use distracting visuals during risk statements in television commercials.

His team reviewed 230 ads and is now expanding the study with Amazon Web Services—aiming to understand how positive imagery affects viewers' perception of drug risks.

Singer-songwriter Jonah Kagen, 25, writes songs that explore feelings of despair and materialism in his generation.

His sold-out Top Hat show — featuring The Crow Boys — highlights his growing popularity with 2.5 million monthly Spotify listeners.

New mapping shows that the human-caused Deer Fire burned 75 acres in steep timber—located 5 miles southeast of Missoula—and started on Friday evening.

Fire crews totaling 160 people built firelines and dropped water on spot fires while the Lolo National Forest issued temporary road and trail closures in the area.

The Missoula Fire Department will build a sixth fire station between South Third and Russell streets after a city-wide study showed a central location can lower response times and a mill levy approved in June 2024 funded the project and a new Mobile Support Team — Fire Chief Lonnie Rash said property acquisition is underway for a facility that will combine fire and behavioral health services and is expected to be operational in a couple of years.

On Monday night, the City Council approved the sale of the Riverfront Triangle Fox Site on the corner of Orange St. and Main St. for a hotel; funds from the sale and donations will go to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund with $7 million expected over 10 years (the mayor also presented her first plan for the FY26 budget).

Big Sky Conference commissioner Tom Wistrcill said the league will shift to a nine-game football schedule in 2026—an action taken after the NCAA added a 12th regular season game.

The change will let teams play three nonconference matchups as the conference grows to 13 teams amid ongoing realignment.

Bitterroot Community Band Performance - Evel Knievel Commemoration

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Bonner Park — Free entry — Celebrate Evel Knievel's legacy with a concert by the Bitterroot Community Band at Bonner Park's bandshell.

Bluegrass Hoedown at Monk’s

7-11:59 p.m. — Monk's Bar — $10 — Kick up your boots and enjoy a lively night of bluegrass music with the electrifying Johnny Campbell Band.

Missoula People's Market

9 AM – 1 PM — Missoula People's Market — Free entry — Explore local art and handcrafted goods in the heart of Downtown Missoula.

ARK Foundation Run for Rare

4-8 p.m. — 3219 Fort Missoula Rd — Registration fees apply — Participate in a 5K run to raise awareness for individuals with rare diseases.

Death Cab for Cutie Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — KettleHouse Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary — Experience the emotional depth and indie rock power of Death Cab for Cutie in a summer evening highlight.

OPLIAM Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Monk's Bar — Ticket prices vary — Experience a unique fusion of Alter-Native Rock and Native Americana by multi-genre musician OPLIAM.

Sunset Charcuterie Paddle

5-8:30 p.m. — Kona Bridge Fishing Access — Registration required — Enjoy a relaxed evening float with charcuterie amidst stunning river views as the sun sets.

Levi Blom & Friends Concert

8-11 p.m. — Monk's Bar — $12 adv $15 dos — Experience an epic night of rockin' tunes with local music talent.

Higgins Lot Alternative Market

9 AM – 1 PM — Higgins Lot, 420 N Higgins Ave, Missoula, MT — Free entry — Explore local goods and fresh produce every Saturday in the heart of downtown Missoula.

River Baptisms

4-5 p.m. — Maclay Flat Nature Trail — Free — Celebrate new beginnings with a community baptism at the river.