November brings a little extra sparkle to Sandpoint and Coeur d’Alene – the start of the holiday season, when our towns come alive with lights, gatherings, and generosity. From favorite community events to small-town traditions and meaningful ways to give back, here are a few ways to enjoy the season of magic this month.
Festival Of Trees: A Beloved Sandpoint Tradition
The Festival of Trees, hosted by the Community Resource EnVision Center (CREC), is the heart of Sandpoint’s holiday season. For over a decade, this beloved tradition has brought together thousands of residents to celebrate, connect, and give back.
The fun begins after the downtown tree lighting on November 28 with the Charity & Cheer Window Walk, where local businesses showcase dazzling decorated trees that benefit area nonprofits. The Friends and Family Day on November 29 invites kids and parents alike to meet Santa, enjoy treats, and take part in holiday crafts and contests. The celebration builds to the elegant Gala Night on December 6, featuring dinner, entertainment, and the live auction of beautifully decorated trees – including one from our Sotheby’s team. Every ticket and donation helps CREC continue its mission of supporting local families and connecting them with vital community resources.
Events Of The Season
November 2 – Sandpoint Nordic Club Winter Welcome
Kick off ski season from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Pine Street Woods Outdoor Rec Center. This family-friendly event includes a scavenger hunt, hot drinks, and a raffle supporting youth skiing. Learn about local programs, reconnect with your ski community, and meet the team who grooms Sandpoint’s favorite trails.
sandpointnordic.com
November 21 – Schweitzer’s Anticipated Opening Day
All eyes are on the mountain as Schweitzer prepares to open for another year of powder days. Opening day festivities depend on weather, so check Schweitzer.com for the latest updates and early-season mountain fun.
schweitzer.com
November 28 – Tree Lighting and Santa’s Arrival
Downtown Sandpoint glows with holiday spirit as the community gathers at Jeff Jones Town Square to light the town tree and welcome Santa. Enjoy music, cocoa, and the magic of the first lights of the season.
November 29 – Shop Small Saturday
One of Sandpoint’s most cherished holidays-within-a-holiday, Shop Small Saturday is your chance to explore the town’s unique shops, meet local makers, and pick up special gifts while supporting small businesses. Visit the Cedar Street Bridge Public Market and festive downtown storefronts for exclusive photo backdrops, treats, and local hospitality.
November 30 – Christmas Jubilee Concert
Close out Thanksgiving weekend with the sounds of the season as the Bonners Ferry Orchestra takes the stage for a special holiday concert from 3 to 5 p.m. at The Hive (located at 207 N 1st Ave). Hosted by CREC, the event is a joyful celebration of community and music.
Ways To Give Back This Season
Community Resource EnVision Center (CREC) connects individuals and families in need with hundreds of local partners and nonprofits. Donating through the Festival of Trees or online at crecidaho.com helps them continue serving neighbors facing hardship and isolation across Bonner and Boundary Counties.
Bonner Community Food Bank combats food insecurity with the help of community donations and volunteers who contribute more than 1,000 hours each month. You can donate nonperishable food, fresh produce, or funds year-round at bonnerfoodbank.org to help local families gather around the table.
Better Together Animal Alliance (BTAA) protects and supports pets and the people who love them. Donations, pets sponsorships, or monthly contributions at bettertogetheranimalalliance.org help provide shelter, food, and adoption support for animals across North Idaho.
Our Favorite Thing To Do: Skate The Pond
Back for another season, the rink offers open skate sessions, private rentals, and festive events – making it the perfect setting for families to create lasting winter memories. See public skate times and rentals at skatethepond.com.
Winter Wonderment Awaits
From the lights of the Festival of Trees to the first snowy mornings on Schweitzer, November in Sandpoint captures the spirit of the season. Whether skating at The Pond, shopping downtown, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, it’s the perfect time to celebrate, give back, and enjoy the magic of the holidays.
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