23 Best Things to do in North Dakota During Christmas

North Dakota is a place where the Christmas spirit is alive and well. From enchanting light displays and festive parades to winter outdoor adventures and historical celebrations, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to experience the state’s rich culture, explore its winter beauty, or simply enjoy some family-friendly fun, you’ll find plenty of reasons to celebrate the season in North Dakota. So, bundle up, enjoy the holiday cheer, and make this Christmas season one to remember!

23 Best Things to Do in North Dakota During Christmas: A Winter Wonderland Awaits

North Dakota may not always be the first place that comes to mind when planning a Christmas getaway, but this underrated gem is packed with festive activities and winter wonderlands that will leave you in awe. From charming small towns to sprawling nature reserves, the state offers a variety of experiences that will make your holiday season feel extra special. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, festive light displays, or cozy holiday traditions, North Dakota has it all.

The holiday season in North Dakota brings out a warmth in its people and an undeniable charm in its landscapes. Imagine walking down a snow-covered street lit up with twinkling lights, sipping hot cocoa by a crackling fire, or taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride through a winter forest. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie ready for winter sports or someone who enjoys browsing Christmas markets for unique gifts, there’s something magical waiting for everyone.

North Dakota is home to spectacular Christmas festivals, outdoor adventures, and cozy, hometown holiday experiences. Explore festive parades in Minot and Fargo, take part in charming winter traditions in Grand Forks, or get lost in the twinkling lights of the International Peace Garden. For nature lovers, the state’s national parks and scenic byways transform into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering peaceful, snow-covered landscapes perfect for reflection or outdoor activities.

In this guide, I’ll take you through the 23 best things to do in North Dakota during Christmas from the best Christmas lights displays to thrilling outdoor adventures. I’ll show you how this beautiful, often overlooked state can become your ultimate holiday destination, filled with Christmas cheer, breathtaking winter scenes, and festive fun. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends, North Dakota will surely surprise you with its holiday spirit. Let’s dive in!

1. Explore the Holiday Lights at the International Peace Garden

A dazzling display of over 70,000 lights
Stunning lights on trees, sculptures, and pathways
Located between North Dakota and Canada

The International Peace Garden comes alive with a breathtaking display of lights during the holiday season. You can wander through the paths illuminated with thousands of lights that give the garden a magical holiday feel. It’s a peaceful escape that highlights the beauty of North Dakota’s winter landscape.

2. Visit the Christmas Village at the North Dakota Heritage Center

Experience a festive holiday village
Miniature buildings, holiday displays, and traditional decorations
Educational and fun for all ages

At the North Dakota Heritage Center in Bismarck, you can step into a Christmas village that brings the state’s holiday history to life. It’s a wonderful mix of education and holiday cheer, where you can learn about Christmas traditions while enjoying the stunning decorations.

3. Attend the Holiday Lights Parade in Minot

Annual event with beautifully lit floats
Marching bands, festive characters, and community spirit
Lighting ceremony to mark the start of the holiday season

Minot’s Holiday Lights Parade is a major event that kicks off the Christmas season. The streets are filled with lighted floats, carolers, and festive music. It’s a fun event that brings the entire community together to celebrate the season.

4. Experience the Magic of the Christmas Tree Lighting in Fargo

Downtown Fargo is transformed with festive lights
Live music, carolers, and hot cocoa
A festive atmosphere to start the season

Fargo’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony is one of the most anticipated holiday events in the city. The giant tree is illuminated in the heart of downtown, and the surrounding area is filled with live music, food, and warm drinks, creating a joyful atmosphere.

5. Shop at the Christmas Craft Fair in Bismarck

Handcrafted gifts, jewelry, and festive decorations
Support local artisans and vendors
Find unique gifts for everyone on your list

The Christmas Craft Fair in Bismarck is the perfect place to find unique, handmade gifts. With local vendors offering everything from pottery to jewelry and holiday decorations, it’s an ideal shopping destination to find something special for loved ones.

6. Take a Scenic Drive to Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Snow-covered landscapes and rugged terrain
Peaceful winter beauty and wildlife sightings
Ideal for those who appreciate nature and solitude

Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a fantastic winter destination, offering peaceful winter drives through snow-covered terrain. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the quiet beauty of the park and catch sight of wildlife like bison and elk.

7. Visit Santa at the West Acres Mall in Fargo

A chance for kids to meet Santa and share their Christmas wishes
The mall is beautifully decorated for the holidays
Offers festive shopping and dining options

West Acres Mall in Fargo is a festive hub where families can visit Santa and enjoy the holiday displays. With beautiful decorations, a large Christmas tree, and plenty of shopping options, it’s the perfect place to kick off your holiday shopping.

8. Ice Skating at the Civic Center in Bismarck

Public skating sessions available during the holidays
Perfect for both beginners and experienced skaters
Great way to enjoy the winter season with family and friends

The Civic Center in Bismarck offers a classic winter experience with its public ice skating sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just learning, it’s a fun and active way to embrace the Christmas spirit with family or friends.

9. Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride at Sleepy Hollow Farms

Cozy sleigh ride through snow-covered woods
Hot cocoa to enjoy while you ride
A peaceful and magical way to experience North Dakota’s winter

Sleepy Hollow Farms in Fargo offers a magical winter experience with horse-drawn sleigh rides. Gliding through snow-covered woods while sipping on hot cocoa is the perfect way to relax and take in the beauty of North Dakota’s winter landscape.

10. Attend the Dickens Village Festival in Garrison

Victorian-era village with carolers, street performers, and re-enactments
Based on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol
An immersive holiday experience for the entire family

Garrison’s Dickens Village Festival transports you to Victorian times, bringing A Christmas Carol to life with street performers, carolers, and re-enactments. It’s a charming event that offers a unique way to celebrate the holiday season.

11. Explore the North Dakota Winter Show in Valley City

A fun, festive event with an indoor market, live entertainment, and more
Carnival rides and games for the whole family
A great way to enjoy holiday fun while supporting local businesses

The North Dakota Winter Show in Valley City is a cherished tradition that brings together local vendors, entertainers, and holiday festivities. It’s a fantastic place to shop, eat, and enjoy live performances in a festive atmosphere.

12. Visit the Bismarck Christmas Market

European-style Christmas market with food, drinks, and handmade crafts
Support local and international vendors
A perfect spot to do some holiday shopping

The Bismarck Christmas Market is a European-inspired shopping experience where you can find unique gifts, sample delicious foods, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to get into the Christmas spirit and shop for those hard-to-find presents.

13. Enjoy a Winter Wonderland at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds

Spectacular light displays and ice sculptures
Holiday-themed entertainment for families
A perfect way to experience the season’s magic

During the holiday season, the North Dakota State Fairgrounds in Minot transforms into a winter wonderland. With dazzling light displays and ice sculptures, this is a great destination for families looking to get into the holiday spirit.

14. Take a Winter Hike at the Pembina Gorge

Scenic winter trails through beautiful terrain
Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts
A peaceful winter hike with stunning views

For those who enjoy the outdoors, a winter hike through Pembina Gorge offers breathtaking views and a chance to experience the state’s natural beauty. The crisp air and snow-covered trees make this a serene and invigorating way to spend your holiday season.

15. Go Skiing at Bottineau Winter Park

Offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing
Beautiful scenery in the Turtle Mountains
A winter wonderland for outdoor adventurers

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Bottineau Winter Park is the place to be. With opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, it’s a perfect spot to embrace the snow and enjoy the beauty of North Dakota’s Turtle Mountains.

16. Celebrate Christmas at the Norsk Høstfest in Minot

Enjoy Scandinavian food, music, and arts and crafts
Celebrate Norwegian heritage with holiday flair
A festive way to enjoy the season with Nordic traditions

While not strictly a Christmas event, the Norsk Høstfest in Minot celebrates the season with Scandinavian traditions. Enjoy Nordic food, music, and arts, and immerse yourself in the culture of North Dakota’s Norwegian heritage.

17. Take a Winter Drive Along the Sheyenne River Scenic Byway

Snow-covered fields, rolling hills, and small towns
A peaceful and scenic way to enjoy North Dakota’s beauty
A tranquil holiday drive

The Sheyenne River Scenic Byway offers one of the most beautiful winter drives in North Dakota. This route takes you through picturesque landscapes and charming towns, offering a peaceful way to appreciate the state’s beauty during the holiday season.

18. Shop at the Fargo Holiday Bazaar

Unique holiday gifts, handmade crafts, and gourmet foods
Live entertainment and festive treats
A great way to support local artisans

The Fargo Holiday Bazaar is a great destination for anyone looking for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. With hundreds of vendors and a lively atmosphere, it’s a fun place to shop and enjoy the festive spirit.

19. Attend the Holiday Train Show at the Dakota Prairie Museum

Intricate model train displays
Christmas-themed decorations and exhibits
A family-friendly event for train enthusiasts

The Dakota Prairie Museum hosts a Holiday Train Show that features detailed model train displays and Christmas decorations. It’s an interactive and fun event for kids and adults alike.

20. Visit the Turtle River State Park for a Winter Escape

Winter hikes, cross-country skiing, and cozy cabins for rent
A quiet retreat surrounded by nature
Perfect for a peaceful holiday getaway

Turtle River State Park near Grand Forks is an excellent winter escape. With opportunities for hiking, skiing, and renting cozy cabins, it’s a quiet place to reconnect with nature during the holiday season.

21. Attend the Christmas Concert at the Fargo Theatre

Live holiday music performances
A vintage venue with a festive atmosphere
A beautiful way to enjoy Christmas music

The Fargo Theatre hosts a Christmas concert each year, featuring holiday music in a beautiful historic setting. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy live performances and get into the holiday spirit.

22. Tour the State Capitol Christmas Displays

Festive decorations inside and outside the North Dakota State Capitol
Educational holiday displays and exhibitions
A great way to learn about the state’s history while celebrating Christmas

The North Dakota State Capitol in Bismarck features festive holiday decorations and displays. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore the history of the state while enjoying the holiday atmosphere.

23. Experience Christmas at the North Pole in Williston

A Christmas-themed park with lights, decorations, and Santa visits
A fun, family-friendly destination to create lasting holiday memories
Perfect for families with young children

Williston’s North Pole park is a Christmas wonderland filled with lights, decorations, and the chance to meet Santa. It’s a family-friendly spot where children and adults alike can enjoy the magic of the season.

What are the best Christmas events in North Dakota?

North Dakota offers a variety of Christmas events that cater to different interests. Some of the best events include the International Peace Garden’s holiday lights, Minot’s Holiday Lights Parade, Fargo’s Christmas Tree Lighting, and the Dickens Village Festival in Garrison. Each event offers something unique, from festive lights and street performances to shopping and family-friendly activities.

What are some outdoor winter activities in North Dakota during Christmas?

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, North Dakota has plenty of winter activities to offer. You can enjoy skiing at Bottineau Winter Park, snowshoeing or hiking through Pembina Gorge, or taking a scenic winter drive along the Sheyenne River Scenic Byway. For a more relaxing experience, you can take a horse-drawn sleigh ride at Sleepy Hollow Farms or visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park for winter wildlife sightings.

Where can I find unique holiday gifts in North Dakota?

For unique holiday shopping, North Dakota has plenty of craft fairs and markets. The Christmas Craft Fair in Bismarck and the Fargo Holiday Bazaar are great places to find handmade gifts, jewelry, and festive decorations. You can also visit the Bismarck Christmas Market for European-style gifts and treats or explore local shops for one-of-a-kind items.

Are there any family-friendly Christmas activities in North Dakota?

Absolutely! North Dakota offers many family-friendly Christmas activities. You can take the kids to see Santa at the West Acres Mall in Fargo, enjoy the Winter Wonderland at the North Dakota State Fairgrounds, or visit the North Pole in Williston. Additionally, the Dakota Prairie Museum’s Holiday Train Show and ice skating at the Bismarck Civic Center provide fun for all ages.

What is the best way to experience North Dakota’s winter beauty during Christmas?

The best way to experience North Dakota’s winter beauty is by participating in outdoor activities like hiking at Turtle River State Park or visiting the snow-covered landscapes of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, enjoy a scenic winter drive along the Sheyenne River Scenic Byway or take a sleigh ride through the peaceful woods at Sleepy Hollow Farms. The state’s winter beauty will leave you in awe regardless of the activity.

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