7 Christmas Towns In Montana That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer
By Michelle|Published November 14, 2023
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
For some people here in Montana, life gets significantly better when winter arrives. No matter where I am, I have always preferred the summer and the hiking, swimming, and trail rides it brings. However, even I can find some fun when the temps dip. As great as it is to experience the first snow of the season, things get even better as we get closer to the holidays. Just about every corner of the state lights up with the joy of the season, but these Christmas towns in Montana offer some of the best holiday cheer.
The town of Bigfork takes Christmas seriously! Beginning in November, streets and buildings are covered in lights, making it clear that life here for the next two months is about to get sparkly. After the local, volunteer "elves" make their magic happen, the town continues to bring happiness to anyone who visits with events that last through the holiday.
The small town of Livingston sits right on the Yellowstone River and is beloved for its quaint nature and access to outdoor activities. However, when the holidays arrive, things really become special. In fact, the town feels a lot like a Norman Rockwell painting. It might be best known for the holiday lights that cover the entire town, placed by a team of volunteers who love the holidays as much as we do.
Make your way to Huson to visit the 9 Mile Schoolhouse any time of year. However, the event space comes alive in the winter when it's completely transformed into a Christmas village. It truly feels like a delightful movie come to life and there are events taking place throughout the month for even more festive feels.
Whitefish is fantastic for all sorts of outdoor adventures. This is especially true when the weather is warm. But, when the winter arrives, you won't find much of a slowdown. Beginning in November, the city comes alive with lights and events take place throughout the holiday season.
Bozeman is another city that's popular any time of year, but it's also one of the best places to go for Christmas in Montana. We especially love the annual Bozeman Christmas Stroll. The stroll is kicked off by the lighting of the lights downtown and continues with an appearance by Santa himself.
One of the best ways to enjoy the holidays in Big Sky country is to visit a particular attraction. In Hamilton, you'll find the Daly Mansion which hosts the annual Holly Jolly Artisan Craft Fair. The perfect way to prepare for gift giving this season, we think this is one of the best Christmas events in Montana.
One of the best Christmas festivals in Montana takes place in the form of a visit to the incredible Conrad Mansion. Mrs. Conrad was a lover of the holiday and the month-long event honors this deep love.
Have you been to any of these towns during the holiday season? If so, we’d love to hear your thoughts on how to make a visit extra special by leaving us a comment.
If you haven’t had the chance to visit, we love the idea of hopping in the car and visiting a few Christmas towns during a long weekend. Just make sure you pack correctly. Traveling during the winter can bring lots of different weather, so check out our winter packing guide to be sure you’re ready.