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Dec 13, 2019

When the temperatures start to drop and snow begins to fall, Great Falls, Montana, comes alive with a variety of exciting things to do. If you’re looking for some of the best events and activities to enjoy this year in Great Falls, check out a few of these top options.white and green 18 wheeler with christmas hat

Parade of Lights

The official kickoff to the holiday season in Great Falls begins on November 30 with the Parade of Lights. During this annual event, a parade that features a procession of beautifully decorated floats will start on Sixth Street before traveling down Central Avenue. The parade will then end with Santa Claus lighting the town Christmas tree located at the Civic Center. While you’re at the event, you’ll also have an opportunity to enjoy food, music, gift vendors, and more.

Christmas Stroll

The festivities don’t stop with the Parade of Lights. On December 6, head to downtown Great Falls to take part in the Christmas Stroll. This annual event brings memorable fun, great food, and plenty of holiday cheer to Central Avenue. Some of the special events during the Christmas Stroll include the Polar Plunge, pictures with Santa, Showdown Rail Jam, and KMON Ball Drop. You can also take the kids to Santa’s Village so they can write a letter to Santa, decorate cookies, and make crafts.

Banff Mountain Film Festival

The Banff Mountain Film Festival brings exciting films to 550 communities around the world, and Great Falls is always the first stop on the tour. This year, the festival will occur on November 8 at Mansfield Theater. Although the Great Falls Ski Patrol presents the festival, the films aren’t always about skiing. Instead, you might have a chance to watch everything from profound adventures to humorous stories. Plus, not only will you get to enjoy some great films, but you’ll also help support a good cause since proceeds of the festival go to the all-volunteer Great Falls Ski Patrol.

Showdown Montana

If you’re looking to get outside and enjoy all the snow that accumulates in Great Falls, there’s no better place to do it than at Showdown Montana. This alpine ski area is located south of the city in the Little Belt Mountains. The ski area has a total of 36 trails that range from easy to difficult. You can also stop by the Skier’s Edge Pro Shop to get all the equipment you need and head to King’s Hill Grille to warm up with hot food and drink.

Silver Crest Trails

The Silver Crest Trails are another great option when you want to get outside and enjoy nature. These trails are also located south of Great Falls near Showdown Montana. Here, you’ll find around 8 miles of groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing and 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. The gently rolling terrain and forest setting make these trails good for all skill levels.

When you’re ready to have some fun in Great Falls this winter, you know you’ll have a great time when you check out these top activities and events.

Image by mendo_video_productions via cc by 2.0