The holidays are a magical time to visit Western Montana’s Glacier Country. Snow-covered mountains, festive downtowns and seasonal traditions create memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. Enjoy outdoor adventures, holiday lights or cozy seasonal celebrations. Here are seven ways to make the most of the season.
1. HIT THE SLOPES
Winter adventure begins at one of Glacier Country’s seven downhill ski areas. With abundant snowfall, uncrowded slopes and terrain for every ability level, skiing and snowboarding are a favorite holiday tradition.
Many ski areas offer beginner lessons and family-friendly learning terrain, making it a great time to introduce new skiers to the sport. After a day on the mountain, warm up in the lodge with a cup of hot cocoa.
Bonus: Lookout Pass hosts a “Dress Like Santa Day.” Those who meet the dress code receive a $20 lift ticket for the day.
2. SHOP LOCAL
Holiday shopping is even more enjoyable in Glacier Country’s walkable downtowns, where locally owned boutiques, galleries, bakeries and candy stores are dressed for the season.
Browse for one-of-a-kind gifts, warm up with a seasonal treat and enjoy the festive atmosphere throughout the region.
Bonus: Visit Southgate Mall in Missoula for a chance to see Santa.
3. ENJOY A HOLIDAY PERFORMANCE
Celebrate the season with music, theater and holiday classics.
Catch a favorite holiday film at The Roxy in Missoula, experience Garden City Ballet’s annual performance of “The Nutcracker” or enjoy Alpine Theatre Project’s “Yuletide Affair for Kids” in Whitefish.
4. TOUR HISTORIC HOMES
Step inside some of Glacier Country’s most beautiful historic homes, decorated for the holidays.
Each December, the Daly Mansion in Hamilton is transformed with festive décor throughout its 24,000-square-foot estate. Guided tours offer a glimpse into the history of the home and the Daly family.
The Conrad Mansion in Kalispell hosts the Valley Voices Christmas Choir, filling the Great Hall with seasonal music.
5. SEE THE HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Bundle up and explore some of Western Montana’s brightest holiday displays.
Ride the Montana Trolley Christmas Light Tour in Kalispell for a festive evening, or visit Missoula’s famous “Grinch Island,” where a local family welcomes visitors with holiday lights, treats and hot chocolate.
6. VISIT A CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
Families can spend the day celebrating the season at the 9 Mile Schoolhouse Enchanted Christmas Village in Huson. Activities include train rides, live caroling, visits with Santa, pony rides, face painting, cookie decorating, holiday crafts, scavenger hunts and tours of the historic Teacherage.
Warm up with homemade soup, hot chocolate or a hot dog lunch before taking home a holiday keepsake or locally made wreath.
7. RING IN THE NEW YEAR
Celebrate the end of the year with family-friendly festivities across Glacier Country.
In Missoula, Missoula on Main features two days of performances, activities and entertainment for all ages. In Whitefish, Whitefish Mountain Resort welcomes the new year with its Torchlight Parade and fireworks display.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
Updated August 27, 2026
December 16, 2019
Related: Arts and Culture, Bigfork, Bitterroot Valley, Downhill Skiing, Family Fun, Guided Tours, Hamilton, Holidays, Huson, Kalispell, Missoula, Montana, Performing Arts, Shopping, Vacation, Whitefish, Winter Fun
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