There are some places that do Christmas so well. You know the places I’m talking about: they’re home to cheery people, lively downtowns and twinkling lights. Places that help you actually feel the spirit of Christmas in just one visit.

One such place is the quaint (and cute and adorable and storybook) community of Bigfork, Montana. Nestled on a peaceful bay on the northeast end of Flathead Lake, Bigfork is a charming town all year long, but I think there’s something extra special about it during the holidays. Each winter, the Bigfork Elves decorate the village with lights and garland and set the stage for one of the most wonderful times of the year.

Bigfork loves Christmas. And I think Christmas loves it back.
Bigfork loves Christmas. And I think Christmas loves it back.

This past week, I headed to Bigfork for a couple of days with a few of my lady loves for some work and play. After our work was done, being the avid supporters of the local economy that we are (aka really good at shopping), we hit the locally owned boutiques in Bigfork and snagged a few holiday goodies. Here’s a look at how we spent our time in Montana’s Christmas village…

Greeting the morning from Marina Cay Resort.
Greeting the morning from Marina Cay Resort.
On our must-do list: breakfast at Pocketstone Cafe.
On our must-do list: breakfast at Pocketstone Cafe.
One of the locally owned shops featured artwork and jewelry from Montana artists.
Perusing artwork and jewelry from Montana artists at one of the local shops.
Truth time: these girls can shop!
Truth time: these girls can shop!
S.M. Bradford has THE cutest hats and boots in the Flathead Valley.
S.M. Bradford has THE cutest hats and boots in the Flathead Valley.
The owner of Montana Bear Food makes these adorable coffee cozies.
Montana Bear Food sells these adorable coffee cozies, made by Eme Handmade. 
Some of the goods from Montana Shirt Co on display at Montana Bear Food.
Some of the goods from Montana Shirt Co on display at Montana Bear Food.
Just because every trip to Bigfork needs a selfie with a piece of art.
‘Just because every trip to Bigfork needs a selfie with a piece of art.
Christmas lights at night are magic.
Christmas lights at night are magic.

And just in case you fancy a holiday getaway to Montana’s cutest Christmas village, I’ve rounded up my top picks on where to stay, what to do and where to fill your tummy.

Where to stay: Mountain Lake Lodge (beautiful rooms with views of the lake, king rooms start at $149/night) and Bridge Street Cottages (starting at $95/night).

Where to shop: Montana Bear Foods, S.M. Bradford Company, Nancy Cawdrey Studios and Eva Gates Preserves.

Where to eat and drink: The Raven (in Woods Bay), Bigfork Inn, Showthyme, Grille 459 and Moroldo’s Fine Italian Restaurant. Wash it down with a locally made libations at Flathead Lake Brewing Company or Whistling Andy’s Distillery.

What to do: Attend “A Christmas Story — the musical” at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts. Performances are slated for December 12, 13, 14, 19 and 20.

Happy Christmas,
TT

December 12, 2014

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Comments

Roberta Enhus
Hello. My daughter ,who lives in Whitefish,took me to see beautiful Bigfork this past june, when I visited my family there for a couple of weeks ..It's the nicest,coolest town that I have been to in a long time..So many things packed into a small area. When I visit again in the spring ,Bigfork will be another revisit with hopefully a longer stay than just an afternoon . Roberta Enhus ,Worcester Massachusetts
Melissa Bonnet
What a great article for Bigfork!! Thank you so much for mentioning our store- Montana Bear Food! I have one little edit- I would love to take credit for the coffee cozies, but they are made by a wonderful Montana company, Eme Handmade!
Glenn Draper
Trying to work through my bucket list but looks like a new addition.
colette taber
I didn't notice a mention about the year-round-Christmas-store that lives downstairs at Electric Avenue Gifts! It's an amazing, truly beautiful must-see, especially at this time of year! Great article, Bigfork is a special place, indeed.
Linda Johnson
No photo of Electric Ave Gifts?? The west's most whimsical store....Hope you didn't miss it...especially the Fabulous Christmas Shop downstairs. Great article though, thanks
Doris Weed Christianson
I grew up in Ferndale, graduated from Bigfork Highschool in 1957 and love to come back and visit. What a transformation it has undergone over the years. Still beautiful any season of the year..I worked for Andy Anderson at the Bigfork Mercantile for several of my High School years , what a treat to see the new business in that spot now. Good job all you merchants.....
Megan Moore
Another lodging option the Candlewycke Inn BB
Eve Hagen
I absolutely miss this little town. I lived there for a little over a year. I had the pleasure of working at LaProvence. I wonder if the little restaurant that sells the homemade pies is still there. I'm trying to find a Big fork Christmas ornament. Does anyone know where i can find one? Thanks
Linda Gerding
My Daughter and Son-in Law both teach and live in Bigfork Mt. I love it there year round. Beautiful town and wonderful people. It's like a town you dream about. We love going there.
Serena Williams
Is a Christmas Story the Musical going to be open. And are we able to walk around. And is there a place to park to be able to walk through. Thank you
Holly K
Hi Serena, Downtown Bigfork is decorated for Christmas this year. You can park downtown. There is not going to be a theatrical performance this year due to COVID-19. You can watch "A Touch of Christmas" online until Dec 24. See this link for details: https://bigforksummerplayhouse.com/childrens-theatre/.
Wanda Dennis
I have watched the movie Christmas in MONTANA SO MANY TIMES. I LOVE THE SHOPPING ARE THEY SHOW. MAKES ME WANT TO GO THERE.MAYBE I will make one of these christmases.watching tonight on Hallmark.

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