Whitefish Christmas Stroll 2023: A Festive Tradition in Montana

Whitefish Christmas Stroll 2023: A Festive Tradition in Montana

Whitefish, Montana – On December 8th, 2023, the charming town of Whitefish will once again light up with the joy and warmth of the Christmas season. The Whitefish Christmas Stroll, a beloved tradition for over three decades, is set to bring the community and visitors together for a night of festive cheer, unique performances, and holiday spirit.

The Festivities Begin

The evening kicks off at 5 PM with the enchanting sounds of the Alpine Bell Ringers Handbell Choir at the First Presbyterian Church, setting the perfect tone for the festivities. Following this, the sounds of harp music and the North Valley Music School Christmas Recital will fill the air, adding to the holiday atmosphere.

A Musical Extravaganza

At 6 PM, the Flathead Valley Community College Vocal Jazz and Chorale Ensemble will perform outside the O’Shaughnessy Center, offering a selection of beloved Christmas carols. The ensemble’s voices will undoubtedly captivate all who gather in Depot Park, creating a memorable musical experience.

The Lighting of the Tree and Menorah

A highlight of the evening is the Tree Lighting Ceremony and Menorah Lighting at 6:15 PM, hosted by the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Stockman Bank. This moment, symbolizing unity and the start of the holiday season, is a must-see event for every attendee.

Santa’s Grand Entrance

At 6:30 PM, the excitement builds as Santa Claus arrives in style via a Bar W Guest Ranch Wagon. Accompanied by the Alpine Theatre Project Elves, Santa will lead the way down Central Avenue to Huck’s Place, where he’ll be available for selfies and greetings with the children.

Diverse Performances

Throughout the evening, attendees can enjoy various performances, including a dance showcase by Whitefish & Bigfork Dance at 7:10 PM and the Vocal FVCC Ensemble at multiple times. Additionally, Merie Productions presents a selection from their “Winter Wonderland” show, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.

Activities and Entertainment

The Christmas Stroll is not just about performances. Visitors can enjoy:

  • Wagon rides by Bar W Guest Ranch
  • Fire pits for warming up along Central Ave
  • Ornament making at Stumptown Art Studio
  • The Great Whitefish Gingerbread Contest
  • Tap dance performances by Feat by Feet
  • Vendors offering crafts and delicious food
  • Turkey Bowling with exciting prizes
  • Stores decked out in holiday décor, many offering refreshments
  • The Whitefish Winter Carnival Float and Royalty
  • Encounters with gentle giants from Clydesdale Outpost

A Night to Remember

The Whitefish Christmas Stroll is more than just an event; it’s a testament to the community’s spirit and a celebration of the holiday season’s joy. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this event promises to fill your evening with wonder, joy, and the true spirit of Christmas.

Join us in Whitefish, Montana, on December 8th, 2023, from 5-9 PM along Central Avenue, and immerse yourself in a festive experience that you’ll cherish for years to come. The Whitefish Christmas Stroll is not just an event; it’s a memory in the making.

Thanksgiving in Flathead Valley, Montana: A Time for Tradition and Togetherness

Thanksgiving in the Flathead Valley, Montana

Thanksgiving in the Flathead Valley, Montana: A Time for Tradition and Togetherness

Nestled amidst the panoramic vistas of Northwest Montana, the Flathead Valley comes alive with the spirit of Thanksgiving. This cherished holiday is a time for Flathead Valley residents and visitors alike to embrace the warmth of community, the richness of tradition, and the bounty of the harvest season.

The air is crisp, the leaves have turned, and the majestic backdrop of snow-capped mountains reminds us of the upcoming winter. Yet, before the snow fully blankets the valley, Thanksgiving provides a golden moment of pause—a time to gather, reflect, and give thanks.

Flathead Valley’s Thanksgiving is characterized by its unique blend of traditional festivities and local flavor. The day might start with a community turkey trot, where laughter and light-hearted competition pave the way for a day of indulgence. Families and friends gather around tables laden with local produce—huckleberry pies, fresh-baked sourdough, and, of course, the star of the day, turkey, perhaps even a local wild one, prepared with time-honored recipes handed down through generations.

The community’s closeness is mirrored in the events of the day. Local churches and organizations host free dinners, ensuring everyone has a place to go. Volunteers spend their mornings preparing and serving meals, embodying the spirit of giving.

As the day unfolds, outdoor enthusiasts might take advantage of the Valley’s natural beauty with a scenic hike or a family stroll along the shores of Flathead Lake, working up an appetite or walking off the feast.

The evening brings a sense of serenity as the sun sets behind the peaks, and families gather around fireplaces. Stories are shared, memories are made, and gratitude is expressed for the simple joys and the spectacular setting that is Flathead Valley.

As the stars begin to twinkle in the Montana sky, one can’t help but feel a deep sense of connection—to the land, to the community, and to the timeless tradition of Thanksgiving.

Christmas with the Clydesdales

Clydesdale Outpost Christmas

Are you looking for something fun to do with the family on the weekends? The Clydesdale Outpost has created something magical for the entire family with the Inaugural Christmas with the Clydesdales. Gather your friends & family for the inaugural Christmas With The Clydesdales. Visit Santa’s Barn with local artists, specialty cocktails & mulled wine a the BRR… BAR with benefits going to Big Brothers Big Sisters NW Montana and hosted by Treasure State Hospitality, Life size Nativity, Photos with Santa (sold separately) and a Clydesdale decorated by Home Consign and Design… and of course our Clydesdales! Join us for a holiday spectacular unlike anything else in the Flathead including VIP Igloos, furnished by Empress Tents & Events, & 300 ft ice skate trail (weather dependent)!

Christmas With The Clydesdales

Christmas With The Clydesdales – Schedule & Experience Details

Christmas with the Clydesdales Main Event | 4pm – 8pm Saturdays & Sundays | $15 admission, Children under the age of 3 receive complimentary access. Admission includes Santa’s Clydesdale Barn where families can experience local artisan vendors, food for purchase from Swift Creek Cafe, drinks at the Brrr… Bar for purchase benefiting Big Brother Big Sisters NW Montana and hosted by Treasure State Hospitality, VIP Igloos (sold separately) & Photos with Santa (sold separately). Admission Tickets include free cookies and hot chocolate in Welcome Center.

Photos with Santa during Christmas with the Clydesdales Main Event | $25, pre-booked online. Admission tickets still required in addition to photos with Santa.

VIP Igloos sponsored by Empress Tents & Events | Saturdays & Sundays | 4pm-6pm & 6pm-8pm – Have a space for your friends and family at the event! Book your exclusive and private igloo with electric fireplace. Includes Admission for 6 people, 6 Ice Skate admission ticket & rentals (weather permitting) Artisanal S’mores Board, Champagne or Sparkling Cider Bottle | $300/ 2 hours. (please note, Main Event tickets outside of 6 tickets and photos with Santa must be booked separately).

Learn more – CLICK HERE!

406 Buzz Montana News

Are you in the Buzz?

406.Buzz is your best resource for the latest events happening around the Montana Flathead Valley area. From Kalispell and Whitefish to Eureka and Columbia Falls, we’ve got the hottest events, best outdoor activities, restaurant lists, and so much more.  From farmers’ markets and breweries to festivals, music events and family fun entertainment, we know all the buzz happening around town.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, we have all the insider information on the best places to check out every day of the week. Check out our  Events Calendar – HERE –  and get in the buzz!

Dueling Pianos

Dueling Pianos Live

Dueling Pianos – Boys & Girls Clubs of Glacier Country Fundraising Event New Years Eve. 

Are you ready for a little bit of fundraising fun to ring in the new year? There will be dancing, there will be singing, and there will be comedy all to benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Glacier Country. The 4th Annual Dueling Pianos fundraiser takes place on December 31, 2022, at the Kalispell Eagles Montana. The doors open at 7:30pm…..hope to see you there!

“Join us for a fun night of singing, dancing, comedy, and outrageous piano playing as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Glacier Country hosts its 3rd Annual Dueling Pianos fundraiser! The Dueling Pianos Event is an amazing variety show, mixing humor with classics like Billy Joel and Elton John to contemporary hits and country.”

Boys & Girls Clubs - Dueling Pianos

Dueling Pianos Details

Ring in the New Year on December 31st, 2022 through January 1, 2023.

Location:
Kalispell – Eagles- 37 1st St. W., Kalispell MT 59901

The funds raised at the Dueling Pianos show will benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs after school program, which runs year round.

Mandy Anderson says the program helps students who need mentorship and structured activities while their parents are at work or if they don’t have a guardian. Program activities include homework help, art, cooking, outdoor and fitness activities and Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) projects. “Kids come and they have the mentorship of our staff during those crucial hours of the day,” she said.

406 Buzz Montana News

Are you in the Buzz?

406.Buzz is your best resource for the latest events happening around the Montana Flathead Valley area. From Kalispell and Whitefish to Eureka and Columbia Falls, we’ve got the hottest events, best outdoor activities, restaurant lists, and so much more.  From farmers’ markets and breweries to festivals, music events and family fun entertainment, we know all the buzz happening around town.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, we have all the insider information on the best places to check out every day of the week. Check out our  Events Calendar – HERE –  and get in the buzz!

It’s Christmas Tree Time!

Montana Christmas Tree

It’s the most wonderful time of year, especially in Montana, when the first flurries of snow start to fall down from the sky. The weather is not too cold and definitely not too hot, but perfect for a hot cup of cocoa with marshmallows on top. Now that Thanksgiving has past, for many households it is time to put up the Christmas Tree. Pull out the Christmas Tree stand, find the tree skirt and all of the ornaments and of course purchase some more of the ornament hooks, where they go we’ll never know. So, in Montana, the real question is do you purchase a Christmas Tree or do you go and get your own?

Christmas Tree

Christmas Tree – Cutting Down Your Own

Before you head out to the parks and find the perfect Christmas Tree, you actually will need to get a permit. You can actually cut down up to three trees from Thursday, October 13, 2022 through Saturday, December 31, 2022, if you get a Flathead National Forest Christmas Tree Permit. You can get your permit online – HERE – but it will cost a service fee of $2.50, but if you go to any National Forest Office, you can get a permit without the service fee. In Kalispell, you can go to the Flathead National Forest Supervisor’s Office located at 650 Wolfpack Way, Kalispell, MT 59901. Click HERE to see all locations.

It is very important to make sure that you go to the right place to select your Christmas Tree. If you are unsure of the Forest boundary, maps showing ownership are available at Flathead National Forest offices – Click HERE. Do not cut on private land, in wilderness areas, designated campgrounds, or existing tree plantations.

Did you know that you can actually help the forest by cutting down your own Christmas Tree? “Christmas trees cut to thin overcrowded stands can be beneficial. As young stands of trees mature, they are constantly competing for more space. By cutting your Christmas tree from dense groups around the more vigorous trees, the remaining trees will grow faster to make our future forest,” according to the Forest Service.  Tree species that are prohibited from harvesting for Christmas trees: whitebark pine, white pine, western red cedar.

Recreation.gov
https://www.recreation.gov/

Need to Know
Where to Cut Your Tree

  • Your permit allows you to cut Christmas trees on National Forest land in Montana and Northern Idaho.
  • Do not cut on private land, in wilderness areas, designated campgrounds, or posted timber sales.
  • Please cut your Christmas tree from an overcrowded stand of trees in meadows.
  • Do not cut trees within 100 feet of main roads, streams, or recreation sites.

Selecting Your Tree
Each forest has limitations on the size of the tree you can cut and the species of trees that are permitted. See below to help you measure and choose a tree that meets your permit’s guidelines.

  • Tree Height: 12 feet maximum.
  • Stump height: 6 inches maximum. Remove and scatter all limbs from the portion of the tree you leave behind.
  • No cutting of 5 needle pines. (i.e. 5 needles in one cluster)
  • Take the whole tree. Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down the entire tree.

If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height.

Learn more – HERE.

406 Buzz Montana News

Are you in the Buzz?

406.Buzz is your best resource for the latest events happening around the Montana Flathead Valley area. From Kalispell and Whitefish to Eureka and Columbia Falls, we’ve got the hottest events, best outdoor activities, restaurant lists, and so much more.  From farmers’ markets and breweries to festivals, music events and family fun entertainment, we know all the buzz happening around town.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, we have all the insider information on the best places to check out every day of the week. Check out our  Events Calendar – HERE –  and get in the buzz!

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

the rocky Horror picture show

Dammit, Janet! The cult classic comes to Whitefish in this limited showing on screen – and live on stage!

Join us as we show the outrageous 1975 classic film while performing its music live on stage. Get ready to yell, laugh, sing, throw things, and do the Time Warp again!

PLEASE NOTE – This is Rocky Horror. It’s loud, it’s raunchy, it’s not for the kids.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is renowned for its audience participation roles at different times and scenes during the film.  There will be ATP-appropriate props available for purchase online or at the theatre the night of the show for purchase as a $5 kit.  To encourage the safety and enjoyment of the film by all in attendance, any bags brought to the theater could be subjected to a search for inappropriate/non-allowable items.

The $5 kits include:

  • Balloon, Glow Stick, Newspaper, Time Warp Flier, Rubber Glove, Noisemaker, Confetti Popper, Toilet Paper, Party Hat, Sponge, Cards, Instructions, Bag.

So now we know what the kit will include, we’re new to this thing.  How do we use them, which ones that aren’t in the kit are also allowed OR are not allowed, and at what point in the movie do we use them?

This movie is all about participation but we also want to make sure the theater isn’t damaged, wrecked, or burned down (under NO circumstances should an open flame ever be used within the theatre).  People are absolutely encouraged to dress up and have fun, but there are just a few things we cannot and will not allow and they are listed below along with the items included in the $5 kit, as well as when to use them.

Another thing we ask is to please not throw things at the screen, it’s not new for sure, but it is functional and we want to keep it that way.  Besides, throwing things at the screen is pretty much just not cool.

PERFORMANCE INFO

October 31 – Halloween Showing at 8pm

LOCATION INFO

Alpine Theatre Project at the Mountain Center
(formerly Mountain Cinemas)
6475 Hwy 93 S, Whitefish (parking in rear)

PRODUCTION INFO

Screenplay by Richard O’Brien & Jim Sharman
Songs by Richard O’Brien
Film Produced by Lou Adler & Michael White
Film Distributed by 20th Century Fox
Film Directed by Jim Sharman
Production Conceived by Tracy McDowell & Jeremy Reinbolt
Stage Directed by Tracy McDowell & Betsi Morrison
Musical Direction by Jeremy Reinbolt

406 Buzz Montana News

Are you in the Buzz?

406.Buzz is your best resource for the latest events happening around the Montana Flathead Valley area. From Kalispell and Whitefish to Eureka and Columbia Falls, we’ve got the hottest events, best outdoor activities, restaurant lists, and so much more.  From farmers’ markets and breweries to festivals, music events and family fun entertainment, we know all the buzz happening around town.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, we have all the insider information on the best places to check out every day of the week. Check out our  Events Calendar – HERE –  and get in the buzz!

Flathead Valley’s Premier Halloween Fall Festival

Flathead Valley's Premier Halloween Fall Festival

Halloween is such a fun time…for everyone of all ages. So, why not have even more fun at the Flathead Valley’s Premier Halloween Fall Festival?

Come enjoy bounce houses, laser tag, games and crafts, pumpkin carving and costume contests with cash prizes, professional fall photos, maze, hay rides, petting zoo with goats and highland cows and much more! Concessions on site including a hot chocolate bar, apple cider, coffee, fresh cotton candy, fresh popped popcorn, hot dogs, chili, nachos and assorted other cold drinks and packaged snacks and treats. Open from 4-7pm Friday and 10am-7pm Saturday and Sunday each weekend – October 21-23rd and 28-30th. See more details – HERE

Flathead Valley's Premier Halloween Fall Festival

406 Buzz Montana News

Are you in the Buzz?

406.Buzz is your best resource for the latest events happening around the Montana Flathead Valley area. From Kalispell and Whitefish to Eureka and Columbia Falls, we’ve got the hottest events, best outdoor activities, restaurant lists, and so much more.  From farmers’ markets and breweries to festivals, music events and family fun entertainment, we know all the buzz happening around town.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, we have all the insider information on the best places to check out every day of the week. Check out our  Events Calendar – HERE –  and get in the buzz!

Halloweentime at Clydesdale Outpost

Halloweentime at Clydesdale Outpost

What are you doing on Friday and Saturday Nights? Why not head over for spooky fun at Clydesdale Outpost. Halloweentime at Clydesdale Outpost will be lots of Halloween fun including a haunted hayride, photos with our Clydesdales, pumpkin patch, live music + more.
Halloweentime at Clydesdale Outpost Clydesdale Outpost Whitefish

Halloweentime at Clydesdale Outpost

Join friends and family for a suspenseful tractor-pulled hayride through our haunted forest… but beware… for the creatures of the night lay in wait and they are just dying to meet you. $18 per person of any age, non-refundable and 100% due up front online. Price will increase for walk ups and space is limited. Highly encouraged to book early.

SPOOKeasy
Hauntingly fun drinks await you at our SPOOKeasy bar with revenue supporting Flathead Warming Center who provide a warm, safe, low barrier facility for those in need.

Wicked Treats
Swirl will be whipping up some Halloween fun! With warm apple cider with caramel cotton candy toppers, themed cupcakes, gingerbread, pumpkin spice, and vanilla glow in the dark cotton candy.​ ​@swirlcottoncandy

Bonfire & Scary Stories

Live Music
All co-hosted by TOPOGRAPHY Team brokered by eXp Realty, Flathead Valley Mortgage and Treasure State Hospitality.
Check out our website for more information!
www.clydesdaleoutpost.com

Pumpkin Patch
Pick a pumpkin at our patch and get a picture for your insta feed.
100 Outpost Drive Whitefish, Montana 59937
‭(406) 285-1165‬ | howdy@clydesdaleoutpost.com

Directions from Downtown Whitefish:
Heading North on US Hwy 93 head into Whitefish, once in downtown take a left on E Second St and continue for just over 8 miles. Clydesdale Outpost Whitefish will be on your left with street sign that reads Outpost Drive.

406 Buzz Montana News

Are you in the Buzz?

406.Buzz is your best resource for the latest events happening around the Montana Flathead Valley area. From Kalispell and Whitefish to Eureka and Columbia Falls, we’ve got the hottest events, best outdoor activities, restaurant lists, and so much more.  From farmers’ markets and breweries to festivals, music events and family fun entertainment, we know all the buzz happening around town.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, we have all the insider information on the best places to check out every day of the week. Check out our  Events Calendar – HERE –  and get in the buzz!

Independence Day Festivities

Indendence Day Festivities

The fourth of July has been a federal United States of America holiday since 1941 that celebrate American independence. We celebrate with our families and friends with BBQ and Fireworks, and we remember all of the heroes that have made our freedoms possible. So, whether you are at home or heading out to join others, take a moment to remember those heroes.

If you are interested in heading out to see parades and fireworks, there are a lot of wonderful events all over the Flathead Valley Area. The 406.Buzz team has created a great list of Independence Day Festivities for everyone to enjoy.

Independence Day Festivities

Bigfork Fourth of July

Bigfork Fourth of July

This year’s 4th of July Parade theme is Community First. Bigfork knows how to throw a party. And when it is our country’s birthday, Bigfork really knows how to celebrate. Centerpiece of the celebration is the annual parade through Bigfork which begins at noon. Bring your whole family to view our great parade to celebrate the birth of our country. The 4th of July Parade in Bigfork is a Flathead Valley favorite. Learn more – HERE.

Fourth of July in Kalispell

Kalispell Fourth of July Parade

The 4th of July Parade in Kalispell is a wonderful experience for everyone in the community to enjoy and this year it is organized by the Flathead Marines. It is the perfect way to celebrate America’s Independence Day with family, friends and lots of fun. The theme of the parade will always be patriotic proudly promoting and supporting America’s Red, White and Blue. The parade features horse clubs, beautiful floats, color guards, antique vehicles, stilt walkers, fire trucks, veteran groups, youth groups and bands….all dressed in the colors of the day. One of the most exciting elements, especially for the kids, is that many of the float riders and participants will hand out candy and other treats. The parade starts at 10am and head down Main Street.

The Conrad Mansion Logo

The Conrad Mansion Museum – Annual Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social

Every year, the Conrad Mansion hosts a wonderful 4th of July Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Social after the Kalispell Parade from 11am until 2pm. The ice cream is donated by the Kalispell Kreamery and is sure to be a big hit with both kids and adults. There are also several food trucks and even self-guided tours for $5 per person of the Conrad Mansion Museum. Guests will also enjoy live music performed by Artist Robinson from 12-1pm. Learn more – HERE.

4th of July celebration at Whitefish City Beach

Whitefish Beach 4th of July Celebration

The City of Whitefish Parks and Recreation Department is preparing for another fun-filled 4th of July celebration at Whitefish City Beach with fireworks and food vendors to celebrate the occasion. There will be numerous vendors at Whitefish City Beach on July 4th including shaved ice, mini-doughnuts, kettle corn, ice cream, corndogs, and barbecue. Vendors will open in the early evening and stay open until the fireworks start. Learn more – HERE.

406 Buzz Montana News

Are you in the Buzz?

406.Buzz is your best resource for the latest events happening around the Montana Flathead Valley area. From Kalispell and Whitefish to Eureka and Columbia Falls, we’ve got the hottest events, best outdoor activities, restaurant lists, and so much more.  From farmers’ markets and breweries to festivals, music events and family fun entertainment, we know all the buzz happening around town.

Whether you are a local or a visitor, we have all the insider information on the best places to check out every day of the week. Check our calendar – HERE – and get in the buzz!