Your Guide to Billings Playgroups and Community
Article by Kara Schwalbe
Photos courtesy of The Mom Walk Collective
Whether you’re brand-new parents or you’ve been around the block a few times, finding engaging activities for your kids can be a challenge. The joy of watching children grow is unmatched, but just like constantly swapping out outgrown clothes, each new milestone brings a shift in how and where you entertain them. Matching a child’s age and ability with the right activities, play spaces and peers is essential. In Billings, finding that perfect fit can sometimes feel elusive, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ve rounded up some of the best local groups, platforms and resources in town, along with some tips to help find exactly what you need, right when you need it.
Connect on Facebook
Facebook hosts several local groups, both public and private, catering specifically to moms, dads, and caregivers. The Billings Moms group is incredibly active with over 7,600 members sharing news, posting events, and offering advice. Whether you are looking for Billings focused stay-at-home-parent groups, dad-centric communities, or neighborhood specific pages, Facebook has them all. You can pick your favorite or join them all, post your own questions or simply follow along to learn from the community.
In addition to the general parenting groups, dedicated meetup pages like The Motherhood Meet-up or Billings Area Playdates exist solely to coordinate open playgroups and community-organized gatherings.
Church & Faith-Based Communities
Another fantastic avenue for finding playgroups is through local religious organizations. A quick look at a church’s website or a call to their office can clue you into the current calendar. Most of these programs are highly welcoming to the broader community, even if you aren’t a member of the congregation. For instance, the Moms and Munchkins group based out of Faith E Church meets regularly the park or in the church gym. St. Bernard Catholic Church hosts a Midweek Moms group, and St. Pius X offers a moms group as well, to name just a few.
Free Local Resources & Programming
You truly can’t beat free fun. The Billings Public Library offers a comprehensive weekly schedule, along with special events tailored for all ages. From Books and Babies to teen nights, there is really something for everyone.
For moms looking to get moving, The Mom Walk Collective is a fantastic new group in town. Moms meet up twice a month (days, times, and locations vary) to walk together with their kids, often stopping at a playground to let the kids get out and play while moms socialize.
If you want local events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for Macaroni KID Billings, an online resource that emails you weekly roundups for family-friendly local happenings. Keep an eye out for Leeloh & Co, a new Montana-based platform started by a sister-in-law duo aiming to help families discover youth activities, camps, programs, and community events all in one place.
On Instagram, @momwhatsnextbillings is a must-follow for families looking to get out of the house with ease. The page features mini-reviews of various locations and activities throughout Billings and the surrounding area, offering a practical “know-before-you-go” perspective, while actively sharing timely events in their stories.
Community Memberships & Local Businesses
Finally, don’t overlook businesses that cater to children as a great way to find your village. You don’t always need a full membership to participate; many businesses host free or discounted events open to the public. For example, FIT4MOM shares weekly and monthly calendar and hosts regular community playdates. The YMCA and Granite Health and Fitness offer free and discounted family activities.
Investing in memberships to ZooMontana or Wise Wonders Science & Discovery Museum allows regular access to excellent programming, beautiful walking spaces and great indoor options to avoid the elements. For the high energy days, GetAir features regularly scheduled Toddler Time, ensuring the littlest jumpers can have the place safely to themselves.
Raising kids is a constantly shifting adventure, but finding your community makes the journey a whole lot easier. With so many fantastic local resources, playgroups, and family spaces throughout Billings, your next great connection is just a click or a playground visit away.
