7 Christmas Towns In North Dakota That Will Fill Your Heart With Holiday Cheer

Few things are more charming than an old-fashioned Christmas town, and given North Dakota’s position as a rather chilly place in the winter, it’s almost like our state is destined to be a winter wonderland every year. Numerous places could easily qualify as the best Christmas towns in North Dakota, but I’ve narrowed it down to just a few for this list; you’ll want to check out each one before the season’s done – it’s the best way to make winter fly by.

Garrison, ND 58540, USA

Dickens Village Festival/Facebook

Garrison is such a wonderful place during the winter that it's actually known as the Christmas Capital of North Dakota. Each and every year, the town goes all-out, and one doesn't simply call themselves a North Dakotan if they've never been to the annual Dickens Village Festival. It's a must-do for natives and visitors alike.

Bonanzaville USA, 1351 Main Ave W, West Fargo, ND 58078, USA

Bonanzaville - USA/Facebook

Bonanzaville is actually a mini-village located in West Fargo, and it's great to visit ALL the time. However, every winter, the village transforms for Christmas on the Prairie, where everyone (including you, the visitor) gets transported back in time to celebrate the holiday season the way settlers used to in days of old. It's an amazing North Dakota tradition that's sure to be your new favorite.

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Minot, ND, USA

Geof Wilson/Flickr

Minot is an amazingly cute little town all year long, but in the winter, it really shines. With plenty of snowfall and a huge Christmas spirit, Minot is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas towns in North Dakota. All season long, there are things going on, like the Festival of Trees, Christmas at the Zoo, Christmas in the Park, and more. Minot is one town that takes the holidays very seriously - in the funnest way possible, of course.

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Medora, ND/Facebook

Medora is a special place for many reasons, but my favorite reason is because it's the only town in the state that's literally entirely inside a National Park. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is, like many other places on this list, absolutely awesome no matter what time you show up at, but in the winter it's utterly jaw-dropping. Medora itself goes all-out with the decorations, and you can't miss traditions like the Old-Fashioned Cowboy Christmas, Badlands Christmas, A Magical Medora Christmas, and more. Small town, huge list of things to do: just the way I like it!

Walhalla, ND 58282, USA

Frost Fire Park/Facebook

Walhalla is a small town with big heart, and in the winter it only gets better. My favorite winter attraction in Walhalla is Frost Fire Park, which offers up some of the best skiing in the Midwest. The park is located within Pembina Gorge, which is one of the coolest places you can go in all of North Dakota. Walhalla's always got something going on for each and every season, so despite its small size, it's definitely worth checking out once there's snow on the ground!

Fargo, ND, USA

Jordan Green/Flickr

Fargo is one of the snowiest towns in the United States and THE snowiest town in North Dakota. For this reason alone, it's earned a spot on this list - never mind that the city is jam-packed with holiday traditions to enjoy. Some of these include the world-famous Christkindlmarkt, Holiday Nights at the Red River Zoo, Holiday Winterfest, and more. Come to Fargo for the holiday events, but stay because it's truly a wonderful little city!

Fort Ransom, ND 58033, USA

Fort Ransom State Park/Facebook

Fort Ransom is a very small town, and its main draw is the amazing Fort Ransom State Park, which goes to lengths every season to make the holidays the most wonderful time of the year. The park gets all decorated in wonderful delights, and no matter where you go, you're sure to love it. This one's perfect for folks who prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy a more low-key holiday celebration. Winter hiking at its best is right here!

So there you have it: the best Christmas towns in North Dakota! Need something warm to wear while you’re here exploring all the towns? No worries – our friends at REI have you covered for some of the best you can find. Can’t get enough? Me either. Check out my favorite winter hikes in North Dakota.