As Fall’s brilliant colors continue to remind us of the changing of seasons, it also means that the holiday season is upon us. From our majestic snow-lined mountains to the sparkling frosted fields through our Treasure State, the magic that Mother Nature presents is just the beginning of what you and yours can experience under the Big Sky in Montana.
While you are enjoying some highlights of life that comes with living and working in the Last Best Place, our team at Hollinger Real Estate is here to share more of our ‘seasoned’ advice. Collectively, we have over 100 years of experience in helping friends like you find a piece of paradise in Montana. See our Top Picks of lakefront homes and property for sale in Northwest Montana, then contact us for our personal insight.
Kalispell, Montana
Starting from the northwest corner of the Treasure State, Kalispell, Montana, continues to grow into one of the best places to call ‘home sweet home’ year-round. With Glacier National Park just a short, scenic drive from the bustling town of Kalispell, there might not be a more pristine place to watch the season change into a winter wonderland. This time of the year, you may get lucky with a bit of snow to get you out and into the great outdoors, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, wrapped in some of our state’s most magnificent sights.
Missoula, Montana
Heading south, Missoula gets Thanksgiving off to an early start with the University of Montana’s Brawl of the Wild football game, which the city hosts on alternating years. This annual rivalry match with Montana State University, which has been happening annually for more than 100 years, packs the streets. On Thanksgiving Day, local runners gather at the Run Wild Missoula Turkey Day 8K, 3K, and Family Fun Run. On the weekend, head to Sentinel High School for the annual Craft Show, where local artisans offer their handmade holiday goods.
Butte, Montana
South and east of Missoula, Butte, Montana offers an educational and embracing city filled with history and holiday cheer. Check out the artifacts and buildings that remain from the 1800s-era copper boom while you marvel at the historic downtown architecture. Stay for the weekend to support Small Business Saturday where good cheer and great deals are extended to locals and visitors alike.
Bozeman, Montana
Thanksgiving in Bozeman is buzzing with seasonal spirit. Start the holiday at the Huffing for Stuffing Race, which raises money for the Gallatin Food Bank. Come early and register soon to be a part of the 5K, 10K, and Kids’ Course, which draws more than 4,000 participants. Much like all the charming cities and towns in Montana, Small Town Saturday is alive and well to help you mark off your Stocking Stuffer list!
Billings, Montana
Montana’s largest city takes the holidays to heart with events for participants of all ages. Mark your calendar now to get a little exercise before the big meal in the Run Turkey Run event and be a part of Santa’s Dash for Cash. Every participant receives an envelope filled with prizes ranging from actual cash to gift certificates to local businesses. After the race, the Billings Holiday Parade is a must-not-miss!
Great Falls, Montana
As you head north within the Treasure State, you will cross the paths of Lewis and Clark along the way and well into Great Falls. Before you enjoy your Thanksgiving feast, bring your family and friends to participate in the annual Burn the Bird run which offers both 5K and 10K options. At Dusk, bundle up and head to the Missouri River near the 10th Street Bridge for the annual Bridge Lights. Its imposing structure of eight sweeping arches spans 1,130 feet across the Missouri River and is described as “a carved monument above the water.”
West Yellowstone, Montana
Completing our highlights of where to go and what to do in Montana during Thanksgiving, America’s first National Park welcomes winter with a variety of events for all to enjoy. On November 22 – 29, the Yellowstone Ski Festival is a Thanksgiving tradition for competitive athletes, novice skiers, and families from around the world. It’s a full week of fun for all with ski clinics, grizzly bear feeding demonstrations and ski bonfires.
Live It. Love It.
Whether you’re planning a winter getaway or a Thanksgiving staycation, Montana’s wide-open spaces offer Turkey Trots and top holiday activities for family and friends year-round. For more local insight, or to see property and homes for sale in Northwest Montana, connect with the Hollinger Real Estate in Big Fork, Montana.
