Bozeman is charming on an average day, but the level goes up substantially when the holidays roll around. And when it snows? We’re talking Hallmark material. One upside of winter’s early darkness is that it's perfect for perusing local holiday lights. If you want to feel the magic, here are a few places you should visit.
City Center
Downtown Bozeman
For nearly 50 years, downtown Bozeman’s holiday exhibition has held a place in resident's hearts. Long strands of tinsel are draped across each intersection, coming together in the center and connecting to a tree that stands seemingly suspended in the air. Each one is a different color, lighting up Main Street with an inspiring holiday glow. On Dec. 2, you can meet Santa, participate in the lighting ceremony, and judge some gingerbread houses during the annual Christmas Stroll.
902 W. Babcock
Whether you love or hate the holidays, this display is for you. Located just behind Bozeman’s Community Food Co-op and known locally as the “Bah Humbug house,” well⸺you really just have to see it. We promise you won’t be disappointed.
Emerson Cultural Center
At the Emerson on 111 S. Grand, a towering pine on the corner of Grand and Babcock lights the sky each year, and the result is stunning: don’t miss it.
Willson Avenue
One of Bozeman's most majestic and historic streets, the homes on Willson are grand, and many residents go all out to make them festive. Old-fashioned street lamps line the way, and the city adorns them with lights, garlands, and bows.
Montana Hall at Montana State University
One of the University’s most iconic and lovely buildings (since 1896!), Montana Hall is situated at the heart of campus and is home to the registrar's office. Each year, on the Wednesday before finals, students, faculty, and alumni gather to celebrate, knowing that this beautiful building will stand illuminated in the center of campus during the darkest nights of the year.
Outskirts of Town
Westridge Subdivision
On Christmas Eve, swing by the Westridge subdivision on the southeast corner of Kagy and South 3rd for an illuminating experience. Each year, the neighborhood unites to create a gorgeous luminaria display encompassing the whole neighborhood. The tradition began in 1967 with Donna and Bill Beasley, a local couple who wanted to remember a young man they knew who loved luminaries and was hit by a car in 1962. This painful memory is tempered by the poignant sight of these gorgeous lanterns.
313 Powder River Avenue
You’ll find an impressive display of lights and inflatables at this house, keep your eye out for the Grinch!
4486 Shadowglen Drive
This house is affectionately known by locals as “Christmasland.” Featuring lights, decorations, inflatables, and even a hot cocoa station, it’s easy to see why.
Baxter Meadows
Baxter Meadows subdivision off of Baxter Lane is a great place to see many brightly decorated homes. From there, take Davis Lane toward Belgrade or head down Baxter toward Gallatin Heights.
Gallatin Heights
Located off Jackrabbit Lane between Hulbert and E Valley Center Road, the Gallatin Heights subdivision has a variety of decked-out homes that will make you say everything from oooohhh to WOW! After winding around the loops of this neighborhood, take Jackrabbit over to Belgrade to catch a few more spots.
Belgrade
185 W Cameron Bridge Road
This lighting display dances to music! Need we say more?
527 Red Barn Drive
Another dancing light show! Tune your radio to 103.9 when you drive up and enjoy the show!
Belgrade Senior Center
Located at 92 E Cameron Ave, the Senior Center offers a walk-through display that feels like a winter wonderland.
For more places to experience holiday magic, check out this list of decorated homes, streets, and businesses.
It’s wonderful to drive around Bozeman at any time of year. Ready to stay with us? Find out about lodging options at VisitBozeman.com/lodging-in-bozeman.
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