Good morning, Helena.

On Thursday, burgers + hot dogs were sold outside two local stores to raise funds for a Helena Fire captain and his family after they lost their home in a fire.

The community organized the fundraiser to help meet their emergency recovery needs.

Advocates at Lewis and Clark Library stress early reading to prepare kids for school and boost vocabulary by using programs such as (1,000 Books Before Kindergarten) among a yearly turnout of 250,000 visitors.

Educators say the approach supports rising literacy skills with new baseline standards.

A grizzly bear was spotted northwest of Helena along the Continental Divide during an aerial mule deer survey, and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks advised residents to carry bear spray + secure attractants as bears emerge from hibernation.

Today, the Montana Department of Labor and Industry launched Larkie (a chatbot for unemployment questions) which is handling 60 to 100 interactions daily (reducing pressure on phone lines) and is available on its website.

Helena's Spring Art Walk

Helena's Spring Art Walk: Visit 100+ artists in-person, on display at more than 40 business hosts from 4 - 8pm. Start by picking up your map at Omerta Arts to win prizes, see two great new exhibitions, real artist studios, live music, BBQ + ice cream, then shuttle to the library and wander back (800 Front St.)

2026 Montana Beer Awards

5-9 p.m. — Lewis & Clark Tap Room — Celebrate Montana's finest beers while enjoying live music from Insufficient Funds.

Jordan World Circus

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Lewis & Clark County Fairgrounds — Adult tickets $20 — Experience the excitement of circus acts with family-friendly offerings.

Blackfoot River Brewing Run

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM — Blackfoot River Brewing Co — Cost varies — Enjoy a 5 km fun run with local craft beer and exciting prizes post-race.

Philosophy on Broadway Fundraiser

4-10 p.m. — On Broadway — 50% of food & beverages donated — Enjoy live music, door prizes, and a silent auction for a great cause.

The Fab Four - The Ultimate Beatles Tribute

7:30-9 p.m. — Helena Civic Center — Check event page for pricing — Experience a note-for-note live performance of Beatles classics and enjoy a celebration of their second film, HELP!