Ho ho ho, and away we go! The Christmas and Hanukkah season is upon us… and there might not be a more magical place on Earth than to spend the holidays under the Big Sky.
From east to west and north to south, our small-town communities and bustling cities go all out to ensure friends and family and visitors alike enjoy one of the most beautiful times of the year.
Our family , living in “The Last Best Place”, has created a list of some of our favorite things to do during this holiday throughout the Treasure State. For more ideas, don’t hesitate to stop by our office in Bigfork, Montana. While you are here, be sure to save some time to shop ‘til you drop at our charming little town tucked into the east shore of Flathead Lake.
Christmas at the Conrad Mansion
Conrad Mansion / Kalispell, Montana
Now Through December 31, 2022
This is a delightful way to get into the spirit of the season. Head to Kalispell, Montana, to experience a traditional Victorian Christmas at the Conrad Mansion. Tour the entire property to take in a Christmas Tour, and be sure to bring a camera; they deck the halls like no others! Educational tours are available Wednesday through Friday, and there are self-guided tours on the weekends.
Valier Christmas Stroll
Valier High School / Valier, Montana
December 1, 2022
As if their Winter Light Festival was not enough to light up the night throughout town, The Valier Christmas Stroll is another reason to get into the season in Central Montana.
Festival of Trees
Metro Park / Billings, Montana
December 1 – 3, 202
A sight to be seen for all the right reasons, this annual event raises money for those who need it most. There will be a Winter Wonderland with 38 beautifully decorated trees to be auctioned off and a silent auction!
Holiday ArtWalk
Downtown /Billings, Montana
December 2, 2022
In addition to the many fine arts and fine crafts offered for sale, ArtWalk often includes opportunities to make art, participate in family activities, gallery talks, dance, enjoy live street theatre and interactive events
A Christmas Carol
The Conrad Mansion / Kalispell, Montana
December 2-4, 2022
Here’s a one-of-a-kind time to turn back time this holiday season. Get your tickets now to enjoy a radio production of “A Christmas Carol” presented by the Gypsy Theater Guild.
Butte Christmas Stroll
Mainstreet / Butte, Montana
December 2, 2022
In its own storybook setting, the residents and businesses of Butte, Montana, kick off the holiday season with a Children’s Light Parade and Tree Lighting ceremony.
Polson Parade of Lights
Main Street / Polson, Montana
December 2, 2022
If you are looking for a good old-fashioned holiday parade, head to the south end of Flathead Lake. Join the hundreds of families that bundle up and line the streets to see a classic “Parade of Lights.”
Parade of Lights, Christmas Stroll
East Court Street / Dillon, Montana
December 2, 2022
Get there early to see Santa light the Christmas Tree at the Courthouse and begin the Parade! Follow the fun through town then plan to stay and shop through the local stores and establishments.
Helena Holiday Made Fair
Lewis & Clark Fairgrounds / Helena, MT
December 2 – 3, 2022
The Helena Holiday Made fair is one of the Big Sky’s largest craft shows that offers a modern handcrafted market featuring over 190 talented artisans, local non‑profits, activities, and delicious food and beverage option. If you prefer to give handmade gifts, this is your one-stop spot to shop throughout the weekend.
Community Christmas Craft Fair
Fairgrounds / Livingston, Montana
December 3, 2022
This Community Christmas Fair features local crafters and artists. Additionally, a fundraising breakfast and lunch will be served, and Santa’s Workshop will be open for the little ones!
Havre Christmas Stroll
1st Street / Harvre, Montana
December 3, 2022
Everyone is invited to bundle up and gather to bask in the glow of one of Havre’s holiday traditions while joining family and friends at the Town Square for the ceremonial lighting of the community Christmas tree. Join members of the Havre High School choir in singing holiday carols while warming up with a cup of hot chocolate and waiting for the much-anticipated arrival of Santa and his holiday wish for all.
The Nutcracker Ballet
Wilson Auditorium / Bozeman, Montana
December 3 – 4, 2022
The Montana Ballet Company presents one of the largest artistic collaborations in the region as they present this classic holiday favorite. New this year are theatrical elements and dynamic choreography to ensure a production you won’t forget.
Townsend Christmas Stroll
Downtown / Townsend, Montana
December 3, 2022
The Townsend Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes you to kick off the season as they celebrate their annual Christmas Stroll. Bundle up and head on over to Broadway to watch the Parade of Lights, sip and shop for Montana-made artistry, and cozy up for a dinner out with Santa often in sight!
Missoula Parade of Lights
Higgins Avenue / Missoula, Montana
December 3, 2022
Enjoy Missoula’s own Holiday Village with floats lighting up Higgins Ave, a Winter Makers Market, burn barrels, caroling, hot cocoa, toddies, and more!
Glacier Symphony /Handel’s Messiah
Wachholz College Center/ Whitefish, Montana
December 3 – 4, 2022
This is a holiday masterpiece that should be experienced every year. Mark your calendar and get your tickets to the most sacred choral and orchestral work of the season.
Whitefish Christmas Stroll
Downtown, Whitefish, Montana
December 9, 2022
The quintessential mountain resort town of Whitefish decks its halls and kicks off the holiday season with a downtown Christmas Stroll featuring concerts, a tree-lighting ceremony, Santa, and wagon rides from Bar W Guest Ranch.
The Nutcracker Ballet
Montana Theater / Missoula, Montana
December 16-18, 2022
Always a ‘must-see and do’ during the holidays, enjoy the Garden City Ballet’s presentation that is stated to “Preserve Missoula’s Nutcracker for our children and community.”
The Nutcracker Ballet
Wilson Auditorium / Bozeman, Montana
December 18, 2022
This spectacular co-production of The Nutcracker includes dancers from Raison D’être Dance Project and Martinsdale Ballet. Professional guest artists include Luis Victor Santana Gonzales (formerly with the National Ballet of Cuba) and Nicole Asaad who performs with the Tampa City Ballet.
Holiday Blitz Market
Ravalli County Fairgrounds / Hamilton, Montana
December 19, 2022
This is a one-stop shop where you can take care of that shopping list while sipping on local wine and cider and savoring some local fare. There’s music and so much more to entertain the whole family all day long.
