'Tis the Season; Holiday Markets in Montana's Yellowstone Country!
Holiday markets and celebrations in Montana's Yellowstone Country are getting underway soon with festivities kicking off the weekend after Thanksgiving!
Our region is full of makers, creators, curators and entrepreneurs; their talent never fails to amaze — from jewelry and paintings to clothing, accessories, woodwork, leatherwork and furniture, the list goes on and on. You'll find their work in locally owned shops and seasonal markets, and the holiday season is a fantastic reason to get out and explore.
Small Business Saturday takes place the Saturday after Thanksgiving (which is next Saturday), and Montana's Yellowstone Country is ready. Studies show that every $100 spent at a local, independent store generates $45 in local spending, compared to $14 if the money were spent at a big-box chain store. Plus, I can't say enough about the unique quality and craftsmanship you'll find.
In Livingston, pick up a Saturday Passport, shop at eight local retailers, and enter to win prizes from the merchants! At 5:30, head over to Depot Park for Light Up Livingston, where Santa will magically light up the park with thousands of lights. The following week is the annual Historic Christmas Stroll with another chance to shop local and win great prizes!
Down the road in Big Timber, Crazy Mountain Christmas kicks off Nov. 28 and 29 with their winter market — and they carry the festivities throughout the month with a lighted parade and fireworks, plus a Christmas Cruze, featuring a home decorating contest.
In Bozeman, the Gallatin Valley Farmers' Market has a Holiday Edition on Nov. 29, followed by the annual Christmas Stroll on Dec. 6 and a Yule Festival and Christmas Market Dec. 19-20. Belgrade hosts its annual Christmas Convoy on Dec. 6, and the following week, a Holiday Market takes place.
Big Sky goes big for the holidays with three days of events from Dec. 12 to 14, including a winter market at The Wilson, a Pray for Snow Party at Fire Pit Park, a tree lighting, wagon rides, and fireworks!
In West Yellowstone, the Christmas Parade and tree lighting take place on Dec. 19. If you still have some shopping to do, the Holiday Procrastinator's Vendor and Craft Fair in Columbus is scheduled for Dec. 20.
You'll find a list of all the holiday strolls, events and festivities here, and while we will attest to the top-notch shopping, what we love most about this time of year are the opportunities to spend time with community, to feel the connection of family and friends, and to celebrate how special our Montana towns truly are.
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