Bundle up for a free wagon ride. Pop a hot roasted chestnut in your mouth and stroll down Central Avenue with the music of Christmas in the air.
For one evening in December, the streets of downtown Whitefish close to cars. Shops stay open late, and vendors line sidewalks for the annual holiday street party—the Christmas Stroll.
On Friday, Dec. 14, the annual Christmas Stroll takes place from 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. Spread over three blocks of Central Avenue, food vendors and craft stalls hawk wares. Christmas cookies line plates in almost every shop, and Santa poses with kids for pictures.
Crowds gather for wagon rides from Bar W Guest Ranch and Gaynor Ranch. Pews pack out in the First Presbyterian Church to hear holiday tunes from the Alpine Ringers and Bell Choir. Dragging their parents in tow to see items on their wish lists, kids swarm the local toy store–Imagination Station.
Santa Claus makes his appearance at 6 p.m. at Second and Central. Following his arrival, he’s available for photos at 131 Central Avenue.
While throngs of celebrants wander down the middle of Central Avenue chit-chatting with neighbors, the stroll is far from holiday frenzy. It’s just a fun night in town.