December in North Idaho feels like stepping into a holiday postcard. The snowy mountains, glowing lakeside lights, and family-friendly events create a festive atmosphere that invites both residents and visitors to slow down and enjoy the season. Whether you already call this place home or you’re considering a move and exploring North Idaho relocation resources, December is the perfect month to see the community come alive.

This guide covers the best holiday events, Christmas light shows, winter markets, and family-friendly activities happening across North Idaho in 2025.

CDA Resort Holiday Light Show & Journey to the North Pole Cruise

Location: Coeur d’Alene Resort, Coeur d’Alene
Dates: Mid-November 2025 – Early January 2026
Times: Cruises typically depart between 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM

The CDA Resort Holiday Light Show is one of the most iconic Christmas attractions in the Pacific Northwest. Millions of lights transform the lakeside into a glowing winter wonderland that draws families year after year. The resort’s Journey to the North Pole Cruise is especially magical for kids—Santa personally calls out each child by name as the boat approaches the floating North Pole display.

Local Tip: Evening cruises book fast—weekdays are less crowded and perfect for photos along the resort boardwalk.

Hayden Lights Winter Parade & Festival

Location: City Center, Hayden
Date: First Saturday of December 2025
Time: Parade begins late afternoon; tree lighting follows

Hayden’s annual holiday parade is overflowing with small-town charm. Decorated floats, glowing light displays, and local youth performers bring festive energy to the city center. After the parade, families gather for the city’s official tree lighting ceremony, complete with hot cocoa and caroling stations.

Post Falls WinterFest & Community Tree Lighting

Location: City Hall Plaza, Post Falls
Date: Early December 2025
Time: Afternoon to early evening

Post Falls hosts one of the most family-friendly winter celebrations in the region. WinterFest includes kid-friendly activities such as:

• Horse-drawn carriage rides
  
  
• Artisan booths
  
  
• Warm fire pits
  
  
• Holiday food trucks
  
  
• Photos with Santa
  
  
• Caroling and musical performances
  
  

The event wraps up with a large community tree lighting that makes for perfect holiday photos.

Sandpoint Christmas Market & Holiday Streets

Location: Downtown Sandpoint
Dates: Throughout December 2025
Times: Daytime to early evening

Sandpoint offers one of the most picturesque holiday experiences in North Idaho. Its downtown Christmas Market hosts dozens of artisan vendors selling handmade gifts, décor, baked goods, and one-of-a-kind winter crafts. Pair your shopping with a snowy stroll along the Cedar Street Bridge and a warm drink at a local café.

Silver Mountain’s Santa at the Summit

Location: Silver Mountain Resort, Kellogg
Date: Mid-December 2025
Time: Typically mid-morning through afternoon

Where else can you meet Santa at the top of a mountain? After taking the world’s longest gondola ride to the summit, families can enjoy snow play areas, hot drinks, and photos with Santa—followed by a trip to the indoor waterpark.

This is one of the most unique holiday experiences in North Idaho and perfect for families who love adventure.

Schweitzer’s Holiday Events & Torchlight Parade

Location: Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Sandpoint
Dates: Mid-December through New Year’s Eve 2025
Torchlight Parade: December 31, 2025
Time: Evening

Schweitzer hosts several festive events throughout December, including:

• The iconic torchlight parade
  
  
• Skiing with Santa
  
  
• Holiday fireworks
  
  
• Cookie decorating
  
  
• Live music in the mountain village
  
  

The torchlight parade is breathtaking—skiers glide down the slopes holding red torches, creating a glowing ribbon of light against the mountain.

CDA Makers Market Holiday Bazaar

Location: Coeur d’Alene
Dates: Select weekends in December 2025
Times: Daytime to early evening

If you love local craftsmanship and artisan shopping, this indoor holiday bazaar is a can’t-miss event. You’ll find handmade gifts, pottery, artwork, jewelry, and festive décor—perfect for supporting local small businesses while holiday shopping.

Spirit Lake Christmas Stroll

Location: Spirit Lake
Date: First weekend of December 2025
Time: Evening

Spirit Lake’s Christmas Stroll is a hidden gem. Expect bonfires, treats, giveaways, small-town music, and cozy storefronts offering holiday activities for families. It’s simple, warm, and captures the true essence of small-town Idaho living.

Holiday Events Showcase the Best of North Idaho Living

The magic of December highlights exactly why so many people are moving to this region. Whether you’re enjoying lakeside lights in Coeur d’Alene, family parades in Hayden, or snowy mountain events near Sandpoint, these celebrations reveal the heart of the community.

To explore more seasonal activities and upcoming community events, visit our North Idaho Events Calendar and Seasonal & Winter Activities Guide.