A Festive Guide to Spokane and Coeur d'Alene: Must-Attend Holiday Events for 2024

November 22, 2024

The holiday season is upon us, and the Spokane and Coeur d'Alene areas offer a rich lineup of winter festivities and holiday events that are perfect for celebrating with family, unwinding, and embracing the joyful spirit of the season. From glowing lights to enchanting lake cruises, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here's your guide to some of the year's best holiday events. So, mark your calendar and prepare for some festive fun!


Spokane Holiday Events


There’s no shortage of events taking place in Spokane this holiday season. With so much to see and do, it may be hard to choose! 


  • Merry & Magical Lane

Kick off your holiday season on November 23, 2024, from 3:00 to 7:30 PM, as Merry & Magical Lane transforms Post Street into a holiday wonderland. This event features live entertainment, seasonal treats, and special deals from local businesses.


Highlights include Santa's arrival and the tree lighting at River Park Square at 5:00 PM, Wheatland Bank's horse and carriage rides, a cocoa station sponsored by Visit Spokane, and a roaming photo booth.


  • Winter Glow Spectacular at Orchard Park

Just a short drive from Spokane, Liberty Lake’s Winter Glow Spectacular is a must-see holiday tradition that lights up the night from November 23, 2024, to January 1, 2025. Orchard Park transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland, featuring a dazzling display of lights, festive decorations, and whimsical scenes that delight visitors of all ages.


This free event is perfect for a family outing, offering plenty of photo opportunities and a cheerful atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season.


  • Numerica Tree Lighting

On November 30, 2024, Riverfront Park hosts the annual Numerica Tree Lighting Celebration. Festivities begin at 4:00 PM near the Numerica Skate Ribbon, featuring food trucks and live entertainment, culminating in the tree lighting countdown at 6:00 PM. This event marks the start of the holiday season in Spokane and is a cherished tradition for the community.


Even if you can't make the tree lighting celebration, you can still enjoy winter activities all season long. This unique 650-foot skating path winds through downtown Spokane and offers a great way to enjoy a winter day. If ice skating isn’t your thing, you can enjoy a ride on the skyride or carousel.


  • Northwest Winterfest

Running from November 29 to December 31, 2024, Northwest Winterfest is the Pacific Northwest’s largest illuminated lantern display and cultural celebration. Held indoors at the Spokane County Fair & Expo Center, this self-guided walking tour showcases dozens of handcrafted lanterns representing winter traditions from around the world. Attendees can also enjoy live cultural entertainment, children's activities, and a variety of food and beverages.


  • Christmas Tree Elegance

From December 3 to December 15, 2024, the Spokane Symphony Associates present Christmas Tree Elegance, a cherished annual event featuring the raffle of themed and beautifully decorated trees.


Located at the Historic Davenport Hotel and River Park Square, attendees can purchase $1 raffle tickets for a chance to win a tree and its accompanying gifts, with values up to $4,999. This free event attracts over 100,000 visitors each year and supports the Spokane Symphony. 


  • Manito Park Holiday Lights

Manito Park’s annual holiday lights display is a serene yet enchanting option for families looking to experience the holiday season at a slower pace. Bundle up and take a leisurely stroll through beautifully lit gardens, with twinkling lights illuminating pathways and trees.


Known for its seasonal elegance, Manito Park offers a peaceful setting where you can appreciate the natural beauty of winter — and it’s an ideal stop for those looking for a relaxing way to celebrate the season. The lights are on display from December 14 to 22 from 4:30 - 8:30 PM each night.


Coeur d’Alene Winter Activities


Coeur d'Alene brings the magic of the holidays to life with its unique blend of lakeside charm and festive traditions. Known for its breathtaking views and welcoming community, the town offers a variety of activities that capture the wonder of the season.


  • Annual Lighting Ceremony Parade

Nothing signals the start of the holiday season in Coeur d’Alene quite like the Annual Lighting Ceremony Parade held on November 29, 2024. The evening kicks off with a festive parade along Sherman Avenue at 5:00 PM, followed by the tree lighting and a spectacular fireworks show.


  • Journey to the North Pole Cruises

From November 15 to January 2, 2025, you can embark on an unforgettable holiday adventure as you embark on the Journey to the North Pole Cruise. You’ll be treated to a scenic ride across Lake Coeur d’Alene to Santa’s waterfront workshop.


  • Mudgy, Millie & Santa Sing-Along

Families with young children will love the Mudgy, Millie & Santa Sing-Along at the Coeur d’Alene Library on December 14 at 11:00 AM. This interactive event features the beloved characters Mudgy the Moose and Millie the Mouse, who, along with Santa, lead a festive sing-along.


  • Travolta Christmas Show

Don't miss "The Sound of Christmas," starring the Shotwell Family this holiday season. Running from November 29 to December 22, 2024, every Thursday through Sunday, this heartwarming performance blends music, storytelling, and cherished local traditions, offering a magical experience for audiences of all ages.


  • Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt

The Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt in downtown Coeur d'Alene is the ultimate holiday adventure for families and kids of all ages! Every weekend, from November 29 to December 22, 2024, brings the thrill of hunting for mischievous Scout Elves hiding in local shops and businesses. Grab your scavenger passport, collect stamps as you uncover their hiding spots, and unlock the chance to win prizes from Santa.


  • Christmas Markets, Live Nativities, and More

Check out the CdA Insider website for some unique holiday activities. You’ll find exciting events such as Christmas markets, live nativities, tree lighting, parades, and more to help get you in the holiday spirit.


Skiing and Snowboarding at Nearby Resorts


For those who crave outdoor adventure, nearby ski resorts like Lookout Pass and Silver Mountain offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Both resorts are easily accessible from Spokane and Coeur d'Alene, making them ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway.


Hit the slopes, take in the stunning mountain views, and let the fresh air revitalize you. Skiing and snowboarding are perfect winter activities for families or anyone looking to celebrate the season with a bit of adrenaline.


Live Holiday Entertainment


There are plenty of live performances to enjoy during the holiday season. Here’s a list to get you started:


First Interstate Center For the Arts

  • Cirque Dreams Holidaze - December 4
  • Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical - December 10 & 11
  • Snow Queen Ballet - December 13
  • The Jinkx and Dela Holiday Show - December 27
  • A Magical Cirque Christmas - December 28


Bing Crosby Theater

  • Adriano Ferraro: A Christmas Concert - December 1
  • Spokane Jazz Orchestra: Christmas Music of Ray Charles - December 14
  • ABBA Holly Jolly Christmas - December 20



The Fox Theatre

  • The Nutcracker - December 5 to 8
  • Glen Miller Orchestra: In the Christmas Mood - December 10
  • Christmas with the Celts - December 13
  • Spokane Symphony: Christmas at the Movies - December 21


Plan for More than Just Holiday Cheer


As you enjoy these festive holiday experiences, it’s a good time to think about setting plans for the year ahead. While the holiday season is a joyful opportunity to celebrate with family and friends, it’s also a valuable moment to reflect on financial goals, future dreams, and ways to protect the things that matter most to you.


So, before the hustle of the holidays sweeps you away, reach out to Five Pine Wealth Management and start planning for a prosperous, joyful future. We’re only a phone call (877.333.1015) or email away. 


Remember, the best gifts are the ones that last a lifetime.


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