It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Montana, and some of our beautiful cities and towns are really going all out for the holiday season. The best way to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season? A Montana Christmas lights road trip! This route takes you from Big Sky to Billings, two of our most decorated cities.

Looking for the best holiday lights in Montana? You've come to the right place!
Google Maps
This exciting road trip will lead you to some of the most magical places in our state. Some even say it's better than Santa's sleigh!
Start in Big Sky, known as Montana’s Christmas village.
Big Sky, MT, USA
Big Sky Town Center Facebook
The Big Sky Town Center hosts the Christmas Stroll which occurs every year. But even if you miss this year's event, the Town Center and Main Street will stay illuminated through New Year’s Day.
Drive all around Big Sky at dusk… you won’t want to miss a single thing.
Bigfork Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook
Dozens of local volunteer "elves" decorate the downtown area every year, and it’s beautiful.
Then drive 44 miles to Bozeman.
Downtown Bozeman
Bozeman’s annual Christmas Stroll is one of the best Montana Christmas festivals. At this annual event, holiday magic fills the air. But even if you visit at a later date, you can enjoy the holly jolly atmosphere.

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Plus, Montana residents really know how to celebrate the season. Drive through nearly any neighborhood and soak up the sights!
Tim Evanson / Flickr
This house was spotted on East River Rock Road back in 2016. We're sure folks will turn on the twinkling lights again this year!
Spend the night at The Baxter, which transforms into a winter wonderland every year.
The Baxter, 105 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715, USA
The Baxter Facebook
This gorgeous hotel, nestled in the heart of downtown Bozeman, will make you feel like you've stepped inside the North Pole. Feel the holly jolly spirit all around you and pretend you're a kid again!
The next day, head to Billings and visit Zoo Montana.
Zoo Drive, Zoo Dr, Billings, MT, USA
ZooMontana Facebook
The annual Holiday Nights at Zoo Montana is great for people of all ages -- kids aged one to 92!
Big Sky might be Montana’s official Christmas town, but nobody gets into the holiday spirit quite like the people of Billings.
Billings Christmas Lights Facebook

Where are your favorite places to see Montana Christmas lights? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Hopefully you can fit a Christmas light road trip into your holiday schedule this year… but if not, you can always head to one of these magical Montana Christmas towns. 

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More to Explore

Christmas in Montana

Elisa Regulski | October 26, 2022

Can I ride the Polar Express in Montana?

You absolutely can! All you need to do is head over to Billings Depot and embark on their jolly adventure. This unique excursion will make you feel like you stepped inside the pages of a storybook! If you loved this journey, you should also check out the North Pole Adventure Train in Lewistown, Montana. This experience has it all: gorgeous sights, exciting stories, and a visit from Santa himself! Book your tickets early, because this annual event often sells out in advance.

What are the best Christmas towns in Montana?

If you really want to feel merry and bright, visit one of the best Christmas towns in Montana! We especially love exploring the quaint town of Darby. Here, you can experience Christmas just like the cowboys did! Head on over to Darby’s Triple Creek Ranch and get ready to have an unforgettable time. For more fun, visit Whitefish, Montana. This area has been named one of the most beautiful towns in the nation, and it’s easy to see why. When the holidays roll around, the scenery shimmers with light and smells like freshly cut pine trees. Still haven’t gotten your fill? Check out Phillipsburg and meander through a winter wonderland. There’s no shortage of places for you to enjoy the Christmas season in Montana!

Where can I see the best light displays in Montana?

In addition to Zoo Montana and the annual Bozeman Christmas Walk, you have to experience the Missoula Parade of Lights. Every year, the streets come alive with Christmas cheer. Listen to choirs sing carols and watch glistening floats roll down the street. If this doesn’t get you in the holiday spirit, nothing will!

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