Christmas

This holiday season's snowfall in Montana is up for debate. Discover which towns have a higher chance of snow and preparation this Christmas.

What's the verdict on Montana's Christmas spirit? New data ranks each state from first to worst.

As long as kids across Southwest Montana secured a letter in the mail to Santa or at least told their parents, aunts, teachers, or siblings their desired wish list, then it's certain that Ol' St. Nick has "gotten word" and will be making a trip to their homes in record time late this evening with many presents in hand. Even if "stockings aren't hung by the chimney with care," Santa will definitely be making his rounds, especially since he knows not everyone has a chimney. He's magical that way and has his own system of ensuring each boy and girl receives something special this Christmas! They just have to believe! With a jolly laugh like his, you know he wants only the best for everyone on his list. Naughty or nice, Santa cares about each child around the globe and here in Southwest Montana!

Good ol' CANDY CANES... It's a toss-up. People either love to hate them or view them as delightful peppermint treats that signify everything decent about humankind. Haha! Okay, so maybe it doesn't go that deep, but their existence does raise the curiosity of many. Once upon a time, and even today, these sticky sugar-filled candies are known to keep kids quiet in the grocery store when "the adults" are trying to shop. However, the end result at check-out is a child covered in sticky goodness from head to toe. Luckily hand wipes were invented and helped with the problem to a point. Traditionally candy canes have also been used as decorations to adorn Christmas Trees and an easy treat to hand out at school functions before the holiday. So, with that, it's no surprise that History online researched and listed candy canes as the number one selling (non-chocolate) candy in November and December annually. In fact, it is estimated that 1.76 billion candy canes are produced each year!

To completely fulfill the holiday season, local theatre is a nice added touch! Since early December, Cutler Brothers Theatre in Deer Lodge has brought to the stage the production of Home Alone II, Lost in New York. Cutler Brother's presentations know how to "bring it", and you may even recognize an actor or two during the performance. According to Cutler Brother insiders, after a successful run of the original Home Alone in December of 2021, theatre directors and producers knew the stage adaptation of John Hughes' Christmas comedy sequel would be a hit on the Cutler Brothers' stage. As a result, many of the same scenes and characters portrayed in the film are front and center for the LIVE theatre version in Deer Lodge.

The holiday season is action-packed, and Saturday, DECEMBER 10th, is twofold! Here's a list of festive events to check out all in one day on the 10TH in the surrounding area, or choose your top two or three favorites!

Christmas time means a lot of things, ‘quality’ time with family and friends, gifts, great food, and even better treats! I am beyond blessed to be surrounded by incredible bakers, people who turn out some of the finest treats known to mankind. (Yes, I am...

Butte's Toys For Tots program is in the homestretch and could use your help. The I Don't Know Cafe has the information.

The holiday season just wouldn't seem complete without taking in a local Christmas play, right? The Open Theatre Project of Anaconda has the remedy! Under the guidance of Creative Director Sue Konicek, local students will take to the Anaconda Little Theater Stage on December 9th, 10th & 11th to perform in "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever". As described in Good Reads, This Christmas classic by Barbara Robinson follows the chaotic lifestyle of the Herdman siblings, who take over the community Christmas Pageant in the most outrageous and harried way! In the UK, New Zealand, and Australia, the tale is widely known as "The Worst Kids in the History of the World". This hilarious play will have you in stitches as 'Three Wise Men' intertwine with frightened shepherds, a ham, and a hand full of mischievous rascals!

This Saturday (December 3rd), and for the first time since 2019, the Women's Club in Anaconda will have just that; a Christmas Store designed specifically for children "only" to shop for their loved ones. It's an exciting experience for the kiddos. Volunteers will be on-site to help these young shoppers pick out up to 8 items priced at ONLY $1 each. Community members over the past month brought in donations and gifts, so the selection is expected to be great! Volunteers will also be there to wrap all chosen gifts. Here's where to bring your youngster for a shopping experience like no other this Saturday: Ancient Order of Hibernians Hall at 106 Cherry in Anaconda. The Christmas Store will be open from 9 a.m. until noon. Proceeds will go towards AJHS Women's Club Scholarships. Let the shopping begin!