TRAINS, LIGHTS, AND FESTIVE NIGHTS
Holiday Highlights in Montana and Idaho
Posted: December 08, 2024 by Erin Duval
The holiday season transforms Montana and northern Idaho into a dazzling winter wonderland, offering residents and visitors a myriad of ways to celebrate.
In northern Idaho, Coeur d'Alene becomes a beacon of holiday magic with its Holiday Light Show, featuring over a million lights illuminating the lakefront and an unforgettable fireworks display. Take the family on a Journey to the North Pole Cruise to see 1.5 million twinkling lights, fire-breathing dragons, and even visit Santa at his remodeled North Pole featuring a brand-new illuminated Christmas tree!
Another must-do event is Schweitzer Mountain Resort’s Ski with Santa days on December 23 and 24. Santa will be sliding the slopes around Schweitzer before he begins his travels around the world! You'll be able to catch Santa cruising around several beginner and intermediate runs so be on the lookout! He'll have candy to pass out to all the GOOD girls and boys!
The Christmas Stroll, on December 13, is the official kickoff to the holiday festivities in Whitefish. Live holiday music, visits with Santa, impromptu Christmas caroling, the lighting of the town’s Christmas tree, and a myriad of arts and craft vendors and food trucks make this one of the top nights to be out on the town all year long. Start with the pre-stroll handbell choir and a jazz and chorale ensemble to get in the holiday mood, and then Start! Your! Stroll!
Down in Kalispell, there are additional enchanting experiences, including the Conrad Mansion Christmas Tours, which showcases Victorian-style holiday décor in one of the city’s oldest homes.
Missoula also celebrates in style with holiday carriage rides every Saturday and Sunday leading up to Christmas, December 14-15, 21-22 from 12:00 pm -3:00 pm. Rides are first-come, first-served and pick up on East Pine near the Museum Art Museum Park and across from Pearl Boba Tea. For the little ones, take them to the annual Teddy Bear Tea Parties held December 14 & 15 in the Residence Inn Downtown. Children are invited to dress up and bring their favorite teddy bear or stuffed animal to this magical holiday tea party while they enjoy music, stories, and a holiday craft with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
In Bozeman, the festive spirit thrives with highlights like the annual Bozeman Yule Festival and Christmas Market at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, offering holiday shopping, cookie decorating, and visits with Santa on December 21. If you need your holiday fix before then, the Downtown Bozeman Association will host the Winter Art Walk on the 13th. More than 30 businesses and galleries will feature artist openings and receptions.
In central Montana, the magical Polar Express Train Ride in Lewistown is a family favorite, bringing Chris Van Allsburg’s classic story to life as you sip hot cocoa and journey to the "North Pole."
In Billings, the holiday season comes alive with ZooLights event at ZooMontana, which transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland, complete with 10 million lights, large-scale displays, garland, festive decor and seasonal cheer.
If you’re seeking quaint holiday cheer, northern Idaho and Montana’s small towns and cities offer a delightful blend of tradition, community spirit, and festive flair. From shimmering lights to unique train rides, the region truly comes alive during this season, ensuring every night is a festive one.