Be a part of something magical in downtown Coeur d’Alene this year during the much-anticipated official start to winter holidays, a time-honored tradition going on 32 years!
The festivities start at 5 pm the day after Thanksgiving, so pack a thermos and bundle up as you cheer on marching bands, festive floats and Santa himself, as they make their way down Sherman Avenue in the HOLIDAY PARADE. With 45 entries, this year’s winter wonderland-themed parade presented by Idaho Central Credit Union is one of the biggest yet. Better yet, make an evening of it: park and do some early holiday shopping throughout downtown, where you’ll find a delightful array of locally owned, independent stores. Many shops, like ALL THINGS IRISH, up the charm with complimentary hot cider and cookies, in addition to offering black Friday sales. Have dinner, then find your spot along Sherman Avenue for the best view of Santa on his vintage fire truck!
Make your way towards the Coeur d’Alene Resort by 6 pm, when organizers flip the switch to light up the 1.5 million HOLIDAY LIGHTS so carefully strung on downtown’s tree-lined streets, along the marina boardwalk and up to the top of the resort’s spectacular 70-foot tree. Oh, what a sight!
And on any other night you might lament that it gets dark so soon in winter, but on Nov. 23, you’ll be happy to know the FIREWORKS commence right after the lighting ceremony.
Can’t make it downtown on Nov. 23? That’s OK. There’s a lot of magic to go around, including JOURNEY TO THE NORTH POLE LAKE CRUISES, which continue through Jan. 2 (tickets: Adults ages 13+ $22.25; seniors ages 55+ $21.25; children ages 6-12, $7.50; under 5, free). Choose from three departure times: 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 pm and book early to reserve your spot on this popular family-friendly tour of the lake, and a special visit to the North Pole, where Santa is waiting to call every child’s name.
Upcoming Events
Christmas Unwrapped
NOVEMBER 23-DECEMBER 16
Each season, The Coeur d’Alene Resort features a timeless original holiday theatre production by Ellen Travolta, capturing the spirit of the Christmas season. This year’s production, Christmas Unwrapped, promises a night of music, laughter and stories brought to life by Ellen and Margaret Travolta, Molly Allen, Abbey Crawford and more. Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 pm; Sundays 5 pm; Coeur d’Alene Resort.
Opening Day at Silver Mountain
NOVEMBER 23
Work off all of those Thanksgiving calories on the slopes at Silver Mountain. Conditions permitting, the mountain will open for skiing, boarding and tubing, plus scenic rides on the gondola, if you simply want to get your holiday guests out of the house.
It’s a Wonderful Life
NOVEMBER 27-DECEMBER 19
Enjoy a clever take on the beloved holiday classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” The Coeur d’Alene Inn is presenting the uplifting story as a staged live radio broadcast. Tickets $20 general; Ages 6-12, $15; Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 7:00 pm, through Dec. 19; Coeur d’Alene Inn.
