Make the Trip to Stevi this First Friday

Stevensville never disappoints during the holidays, and this year is no exception. The quant farming town, Montana’s first settlement, located about 30 miles south of Missoula on Highway 93 boasts half a dozen festivals, picnics, and parades throughout the year. But the ultimate event is Country Christmas, held on the First Friday in December.

Sometimes I compare Stevensville to Stars Hollow, the fictional town in Connecticut featured on the hit television show Gilmore Girls. It’s like taking a step back in time, where the old-fashioned soda fountain is a fixture of the pharmacy, Bible study groups meet over coffee at the cafe, and everyone knows everyone else at the grocery store. High-end restaurants are sandwiched between antique shops, salons, and boutiques. It’s not uncommon to see the town’s mayor and his wife pushing their toddler and newborn in a stroller from door to door.

During a normal year, Country Christmas festivities include a live nativity, lighting of the Christmas lights over the street, and a chance to meet Santa.

But 2020 isn’t a normal year, and like other activities, organizers had to pivot to make this event more Covid-friendly.

In addition to the lighting of the street festivities, this year businesses and individuals in town have decorated Christmas trees for the Parade of Trees. Individuals can view trees all night, touring the town at their leisure, and can even vote on their favorite. At the end of the night, the trees will be auctioned.

Christmas lights will illuminate the street at 6:30, led by a parade, but this year residents are encouraged to BE the parade by decorating their vehicles with lights and other ornaments.

2020 was a year of transition for several Main Street businesses, and two businesses will be re-opening: The Montana Distillery, which is relocating from downtown Missoula, and Grains Of Grace Café. To celebrate, there will be drinks, food, and a live band in the courtyard adjacent to Grains of Grace (formerly Morning Star Caffeine and Cuisine). Tiffany Photography will be offering Christmas portraits for $35 in studio. Browse holiday decor, furniture and wearables at Lydia Rae. Plus, you could win a basket worth $500, including items from several businesses on the block, just for stopping by and shopping!

It’s worth making the trip from Missoula to Stevensville for a night of family-friendly, Covid-safe fun.