Good morning, Missoula.

The Missoula Family YMCA will host a free block party soon to celebrate its fully upgraded campus—years of planning and construction are behind the new facility.

A 12-year-old boy was killed when he fell off a float during the Homecoming parade in Florence on Friday afternoon—officials canceled the evening's activities as investigators examine the accident.

The School Funding Interim Commission has begun studying how much it costs to teach a child in Montana, with 20 members tasked to see if state funding provides a quality education.

They will share their ideas with lawmakers by January 2027 (details may change as their review continues).

The University of Montana said a viral video in which a few students laughed at news of Charlie Kirk’s killing in Utah does not show its full campus view — free speech is protected and no student will be punished.

UM President Seth Bodnar condemned the violence and said it goes against the school’s values.

Missoula City Council will vote next week on a resolution to delay filling the Ward 1 vacancy so the November winner is publicly elected and seated immediately — a move that aligns with state law and allows a public vote on key code reform issues.

If the resolution fails, council will appoint a temporary fill-in — a process that would delay the seat until October 6.

The House passed a joint resolution led by Montana Rep. Troy Downing to overturn the Bureau of Land Management’s decision under President Biden to end new coal lease sales in the Powder River Basin — the change is intended to revive coal leasing and preserve local input in land management. The resolution now heads to the Senate for further action.

Missoula Fire Department is proposing that firefighters live within 60 road miles of a fixed fire station—this rule will expand recruitment and set two tiers for emergency callbacks.

The City Council’s Public Safety, Health and Operations Committee approved the change and will make a final decision in early October.

Hundreds of conservatives gathered at the University of Montana on Friday, Sept 12 to mourn far right activist Charlie Kirk after he was shot in Utah; the event was organized by the UM Turning Point USA chapter and featured Lt. Gov Kristen Juras & Rep. Braxton Mitchell speaking on his legacy and the need for open dialogue. Attendees prayed and shared their emotions in a peaceful gathering that reflected their strong support for Kirk's controversial views.

Locals in Missoula say life here is special because they can enjoy nearby mountains, rivers, and hikes while embracing friendly and tight-knit community vibes—everyday activities feel magical as they connect with nature and neighbors.

Many residents appreciate that routine trips, like a visit to the store or a bike ride, remind them of the town's charm.

Montana homeowners pay more for mortgages as rising insurance rates and HOA fees push median monthly costs to $1,900—higher than the $1,800 seen in nearby states.

National trends show extra homeownership expenses have driven overall mortgage costs up 26% in the past five years.

Hunting Dinosaur Fossils in the Bighorn Basin with Paleontologist, Jason C. Poole

Great program for all ages and all dinosaur enthusiasts! Join paleontologist Jason C. Poole to hear the latest from this summer’s field work digging up dinosaur bones in Montana’s Bighorn Basin, some of which will be exposed over the next few months at the Montana Natural History Center before your very eyes!

Hunting Dinosaur Fossils in the Bighorn Basin with Paleontologist, Jason C. Poole

Great program for all ages and all dinosaur enthusiasts! Join paleontologist Jason C. Poole to hear the latest from this summer’s field work digging up dinosaur bones in Montana’s Bighorn Basin, some of which will be exposed over the next few months at the Montana Natural History Center before your very eyes!

Hunting Dinosaur Fossils in the Bighorn Basin with Paleontologist, Jason C. Poole

Great program for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages – join paleontologist Jason C. Poole to hear the latest from his summer’s field work digging up dinosaur bones in Montana’s Bighorn Basin, some of which will be exposed over the next few months at the Montana Natural History Center before your very eyes! Snacks and drinks included.

Ronnie And The Redwoods Live

7-10 p.m. — Monk's Bar — Cost Info — Experience the emotional Americana/Rock sounds of Ronnie and The Redwoods with their deep lyrics and rich musical roots.

Chase Rice Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Wilma — Tickets available — Experience high-energy music with Chase Rice as he performs hits from his chart-topping albums.

Montana Grizzlies vs. Indiana State Sycamores

1-2:30 p.m. — Washington-Grizzly Stadium — VIP tickets available — Experience college football with premium seating and exclusive tailgate events.

Dark Flamingo Painting Class

2-4 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — BYOB — Sip, paint, and relax while creating your own dark flamingo masterpiece.

Out There: A National Parks Story in Missoula

Special screening of the award-winning documentary Out There: A National Parks Story as part of the Cartography Comes Alive series at Xplorer Maps Headquarters. A Q&A with director Brendan Hall and special guest Jack Gladstone will follow the film. | Sept 23 · 7 PM

Missoula Elementary School Free Movie Night

📍 Gates open at 5:00PM | 🎟️ FREE admission for students & families | 🍿 Concessions will be open — no outside food or drink allowed

Fall Beer & Wine Fest

5-8 p.m. — The Trough — $50 per person — Sample local brews and wines while enjoying live music and delicious bites.

ClimateFEST

Kickoff Climate Solutions Week in Caras Park with the 7th annual ClimateFEST, Saturday, September 27, 10AM - 2PM! Featuring dozens of local organizations and businesses, this free, family-friendly event celebrates climate solutions -- from clean energy and electrification, to art and advocacy.

Late Night Radio Performance

7-10 p.m. — Monk's Bar — $10 cover — Experience the vibrant sounds of Late Night Radio as they electrify the night with innovative electronic beats.