Ah, Christmas in North Dakota. Get ready for snowy days and cozy afternoons. The stores have put out all of their Christmas decorations, and the music of the season can be heard pretty much anywhere. When the holiday season is upon us, no North Dakota Christmas is complete without experiencing the holiday spirit through some of the state’s many events, attractions, and traditions held throughout the state all December long. Make this your Christmas Bucket List for the holiday season!

1. Experiencing Medora Musical's "A Magical Medora Christmas" when it comes to your town during their tour.
Medora's Old Fashioned Cowboy Christmas/Facebook
The musical is going through a ton of towns this year. Find out where and when by checking out the City of Medora website.

Take a look at this video by @billsorensenproductions7913:
2. Being there when the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train pays a visit to North Dakota.
Photo Credit
This train is awesome in every way and simply magical to see. Check out our feature article to learn more about the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train. Seeing the holiday train will make your North Dakota Christmas complete.

Take a look at this video by @ndrailfan:
3. Going to some of the big Christmas craft fairs and browsing through so many vendors for the ultimate holiday shopping experience.
The Big One Art & Craft Fair/Facebook
Seriously, there is so much to see at these fairs. The Bismarck Holiday Showcase is a good example. Over 200 vendors will be selling there. You can get pretty much all your Christmas shopping done in one place! It typically starts in early December. Learn more by visiting the Bismark Holiday Showcase website.
4. Seeing your area light up with Christmas decorations all across the neighborhood.
Holiday Lights 4 U/Facebook
Every town comes alive with lights put up by neighbors, businesses, and more throughout the holiday season. Check out some of the best things to do around Christmas time in North Dakota like seeing lights.
5. Or passing by the lone farmhouses that go all out on decorations.
Michael Gil/Flickr
We love these houses! They make nighttime winter driving fun when you come across them all colorful and glowing.

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6. Traveling to Garrison, the "Christmas Capital of North Dakota," for the Dickens Village Festival.
Garrison, ND 58540, USA
Dickens Village Festival/Facebook
Looking for "Christmas events near me?" This festival is one of the most unique in North Dakota, and it is a total blast! It follows everything about the famous A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens in the most fun ways. Plus vendors, live entertainment, events, and even a double-decker bus to ride around in can be found there during the festival. Visit the Dickens Festival website for more information.

Take a look at this video by @CenexStores:
7. Getting to have special Christmas treats that have been passed down generations in the family, like krumkake.
Errin/Flickr
They're both beautiful and delicious! They are just one of many foods people love to make as a tradition during the holiday season.
8. Not to mention the usual Christmas treats of cookies, candies, and more.
Shannon Crissey/Flickr
We certainly don't shy away from the sugar during the holidays! But eating them is only a small part - the real fun comes with making them and spending time with family.
9. Seeing the local light parade go through downtown.
Fargo-Moorhead CVB/Flickr
Many towns in North Dakota have light parades that dazzle and delight people of all ages every year. If you have one in your area, definitely go check it out!
10. And getting to experience a snowy Christmas and all that entails.
Grand River Conservation/Flickr
Who else is ready for snowmobiling? It's a classic North Dakota Christmas outing!

What’s your favorite things to do for Christmas in North Dakota? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

This is just a small taste of all the Christmas activities in North Dakota. For more fun holiday adventures, check out these spectacular light shows.

Need some holiday gift ideas? Check out our list of the best gifts for the traveler in your life.

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More to Explore

Christmas in North Dakota

Elisa Regulski | November 04, 2022

What are the best holiday events in North Dakota?

If you’re hoping to get into the Christmas spirit, why not visit one of the best Christmas towns in North Dakota? Here are a few you should visit this holiday season:

  • We particularly love the town of Brookings, which is known for its annual Festival of Lights and spectacular parade.
  • Pierre is a gorgeous city that boasts over 100 ornately decorated Christmas trees. It’s certain to make you feel like a kid again.
  • The city of Custer has an annual Christmas parade that is nothing short of jolly. Who knows? You might even catch a glimpse of Santa and Mrs. Claus while you’re there!

 

Are there any Christmas tree farms in North Dakota?

There are so many festive Christmas tree farms in North Dakota. For example, if you live near Thompson, head over to Ring Family Farm. In addition to stunning trees, this local business hosts special craft workshops and sells fragrant wreaths! 

Should I go hiking in winter in North Dakota?

You absolutely can go hiking during winter in North Dakota. Here are some of the best winter trails to consider:

  • The Cottonwood Trail, located inside Cross Ranch State Park, becomes especially gorgeous this time of year.
  • Fort Stevenson/North Pine Loop is located inside Fort Stevenson State Park.
  • The Whitetail Trail inside Turtle River State Park looks enchanting when it’s blanketed in fresh white snow.
  • Lake Sakakawea State Park’s Shoreline Trail is not to be missed.

 

Check out the best winter hikes in North Dakota.

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