2026 Downtown Kalispell Holiday Stroll
Whether you're checking off your holiday shopping list, creating memories with family, hunting for hidden yetis, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, Holiday Kickoff Weekend is the perfect way to welcome the season.
FRIDAY: DECEMBER 4TH 5-8PM
SATURDAY: DECEMBER 5th: ALL DAY
Come downtown, support local businesses, discover festive activities around every corner, and be part of one of Kalispell's favorite holiday traditions.
Holiday Kickoff Weekend
📍 Downtown Kalispell
🎄 Holiday Stroll Friday Evening
✨ Family Activities Continue Saturday Throughout Downtown
Shop Local. Celebrate Together. Make Holiday Memories. 🎄✨
Friday
5-8PM
Experience the magic of the season as Downtown Kalispell transforms into a festive holiday wonderland for the annual Kalispell Holiday Stroll. Bring the whole family and enjoy an evening filled with holiday traditions, sparkling lights, local shopping, entertainment, and community spirit.
Stroll through beautifully decorated downtown streets, browse unique gifts and seasonal specials from local businesses, and enjoy festive activities around every corner. Throughout the evening, holiday music and Christmas carols will fill downtown as local performers help create the perfect soundtrack to kick off the season.
Children and families won't want to miss the opportunity to meet Santa Claus, share their holiday wishes, and capture a memorable holiday photo. Downtown merchants and community organizations will also host special activities, treats, and festive experiences for visitors of all ages.
The highlight of the evening is the beloved Community Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7:00 PM, when the downtown Christmas tree comes to life in a dazzling display of holiday lights. Join thousands of community members as we count down together and officially welcome the holiday season in true Kalispell fashion.
Saturday
All Day
The celebration doesn't end on Friday night! Holiday Kickoff Weekend continues throughout downtown on Saturday with even more seasonal activities and family adventures.
Enjoy special programming hosted by Kalispell Parks & Recreation at Depot Park and take part in the downtown "Find the Yeti" Challenge, where hidden yetis can be discovered inside participating downtown businesses.
Families can also enjoy holiday-themed activities and programs at the Hockaday Museum of Art and Kalispell Public Library, while exploring local shops, seasonal specials, festive displays, and holiday entertainment throughout downtown.
St. Matthew's Holiday Carnival & Pancake Breakfast
A Saturday favorite returns at St. Matthew's School with activities for the whole family:
🥞 Pancake Breakfast & Brunch
8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
🎪 Starlight Market Carnival
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Enjoy carnival games, face painting, photo booths, prizes, candy, and holiday fun for children of all ages. After breakfast service concludes, festive carnival foods such as corn dogs, popcorn, deep-fried pickles, and more will be available for purchase. Visitors may also find local vendors offering handmade arts, crafts, candles, jewelry, holiday décor, and unique gift items.