$20 get a gift card for only $25
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The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds, and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkle of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking, or cherished family traditions.
This month, we’ve curated a gift guide to help make your holiday shopping easier while support ing local businesses. We’ve also highlighted the best of what Bozeman has to offer during the holidays, from events and entertainment to opportunities for giving back.
While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely, or in need. In the spirit of the season, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering your time, or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference.
May your holidays be filled with love, peace, and the joy of giving. Happy Holidays,
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Maggie Hebron | maggie.hebron@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Rachel Jackson | rachel.jackson@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Mila Azcona | mila.azcona@citylifestyle.com
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
Anna Minnick
QUALITY
Tinsley House and Planetarium
$10/adult, $5/child age 5-17, $0/child up to age 4
Registration is required; limited capacity.
Celebrate the season with festive fun while enjoying carolers, crafts, treats, a planetarium show, storytime, and a visit from St. Nick!
As the year comes to a close, finish strong with a Totally Free Checking Account. No fees, no minimum balance, just easy, stress-free banking for the holidays and beyond. Start the new year with your best financial foot forward.
The holiday season is here, and there's no better way to make your festivities unforgettable than by indulging in a Graze Craze® Holiday Board. Carefully crafted with the spirit of the holidays in mind, this board is a tempting array of flavors that will take your family gatherings, event planning, and catering to the next level. Now accepting pre-orders. Order your Holiday Board while supplies last!
One of the largest artistic collaborations in the region, MBC’s The Nutcracker with the Bozeman Symphony and Opera Montana’s Youth Chorus, will be held during Christmas Stroll weekend at the Willson Auditorium on Saturday, December 6th at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., and Sunday, December 7th at 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Photography by Lauren Brown Photography
Bundle up and enjoy a magical ride around the Gallatin River Lodge's property in a horse-drawn sleigh, complete with the jingle of bells. Winter weather is unpredictable in Montana, but don’t worry—the sleigh converts to a wagon if the snow is light, so the ride goes on! Whether you’re celebrating the holidays with family or planning a romantic evening activity, sleigh rides bring the spirit of the season to life! Tickets available at the door.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LC PHOTOSTYLE
Top left: INTRIGUE INK
12 E Main St, Bozeman intrigue.ink
Bottom: PURE BARRE
34 E Mendenhall St # R-6, Bozeman purebarre.com/location/bozeman-mt
This spread: TREELINE COFFEE
624 N Wallace Ave, Bozeman treelinecoffee.com
Spread on page 16: VELVET STUDIO
107 E Oak St suite 1B, Bozeman thevelvetstudio.com
Spread on page 17:
Top: GLO LUXURY OILS gloluxuryoils.com
Bottom left: MUSEUM OF THE ROCKIES
600 W Kagy Blvd, Bozeman museumoftherockies.org
Bottom right: CARTER’S BOOTS AND REPAIR 1662 Bobcat Dr, Bozeman cartersboots.com
CONTINUED >
Spread on page 21: SALCHICHA 730 Boardwalk Ave Unit 6, Bozeman shop-salchicha.com
With the holidays quickly approaching, here are some tips from a local grazeologist guaranteed to make your holiday charcuterie board a showstopper.
From fanning your salami to folding it into fours or making a rose, the more folds you have on your board, the more pleasing it is to the eye.
Don’t forget to wash your fresh produce! A simple mixture of 1 part distilled vinegar to 4 parts water will do the trick.
Spread out vibrant ingredients like berries, pickles, peppers and bright cheeses to keep it visually balanced.
ARTICLE BY JAIME NICOLE MARTINEZ
Some amazing accoutrements to add to your board are dips, jams, and mustards. Think outside the box with sauces like chimichurri, beer cheese and bourbon jam. Use a mixture of sweet, savory and spicy flavors.
Don’t forget to garnish with your favorite dried fruits like cranberries, apricots or cherries, and something crunchy like corn nuts, popcorn or mixed nuts.
Garnish your board with aromatic sprigs of herbs like Rosemary, Thyme or Mint, or edible micro flowers.
As much as possible, shop local to support small businesses and farms in your community!
Most importantly: have fun! Every board is a blank canvas ready to become a beautiful creation. And if you don’t have the time to make one? Graze Craze has you covered for a holiday gathering of any size!
A FRESH TAKE ON THE TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS STORY
ARTICLE BY BETH ANN KENNEDY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FELIX A. MARQUEZ/FMFP
‘Tis the season to recognize the incredible gifts that we offer and receive throughout the years. This season makes me think about Bending Towards the Light...a Jazz Nativity!, the traditional Christmas story told in a thoroughly fresh new way, through the medium of jazz. In 2023, the Jazz Nativity had its Montana premiere in Bozeman. It was received as a gift to the community, and received glowing responses, including:
• “It was truly memorable and an unforgettable experience.”
• “Such a beautiful show! So thankful for this gift.”
• “I had chills from how phenomenal it all was! Thank you for bringing it to us!”
• “Wow! I am not sure that I have the right words to describe how powerful that performance was last night. I felt goosebumps & was literally shaking when the show was over. The pacing was breathtaking.”
• “The talent in your huge cast was simply amazing. It was impossible to pick a favorite cast member; they were all great!”
• “My expectations for this Montana premiere were very high, but it went far and above.”
• “What a special evening. Bringing all those performers together and in sync with each other is a major feat. Wonderful experience for Bozeman.”
• “The show was a blessing and made me smile and lifted my spirit. It was a magical evening of music.
• “You gave Bozeman a wonderful gift of joy. I brought in a bunch of friends, and they left in amazement. A big thank you and hug for your courage and vision to bring this totally unexpected piece of creativity to our city.”
It is my supreme pleasure to be working with Hope Lutheran Church to produce Bending Towards the Light...a Jazz Nativity again this year. Showing on December 4th at 7:00, December 7th at 4:00, and
December 11th at 7:00, Grammy Award-winning artist Ryan Matzinger will conduct the cast of 85 musicians, singers and dancers from our community as they bring the gift of their talent to the stage.
Montana State University President Dr. Brock Tessman and First Lady Kristin Tessman will serve as the hosts of the opening night performance, bringing their own interpretive gifts to the words CBS journalist Charles Kuralt wrote and delivered at Lincoln Center when he steered the same position: “Light serves as a symbol of truth, love and hope. Hope that even in a dark season, we may begin to see the world bending towards the light.”
The cast and crew will honor the following Montana organizations that continue to encourage and support our community to live in the light.
• December 4th: Montana PBS and Yellowstone Public Radio
• December 7th: Warriors & Quiet Waters
• December 11th: Bozeman Art Museum, Eagle Mount, Greater Gallatin United Way, Montana Mindfulness, Montana Shakespeare in the Schools, Shane Lalani Center for the Arts, and Thrive
We are so grateful for these organizations who daily give our community the gifts of their passion for healthy, inspired, valuable living.
The Jazz Nativity was written, by singer/composer Anne Phillips, celebrating its 40th Anniversary in New York City as it has become “A new New York tradition“, per New York Magazine.
The show has been staged and directed by Beth Ann Kennedy since 1995. I have the joy of working with Maren Haynes Marchesini at Hope Church.
Join us! For more information, go to jazznativity.org/Bozeman .
"Such a beautiful show! So thankful for this gift."
TEN UNIQUE MONTANA EXPERIENCES TO WOW YOUR LOVED ONES
Sometimes the best gifts aren’t things; they’re moments. Whether it’s adventure, connection, or calm, give your friends and family an experience they’ll never forget this holiday season.
LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH
Whether it's skiing, fly fishing, or simply getting time away and relaxing in one of their cozy cabins, escape the hustle of everyday life and take in the views at this gorgeous ranch outside of Big Sky. Learn more and book at lonemountainranch.com .
MELT HEAD SPA
A tranquil retreat where traditional Japanese-inspired techniques meet modern wellness. Let your stress melt away and experience inner and outer renewal with massages, facials, and more. Book at vagaro.com/meltheadspa .
GALLATIN RIVER LODGE
With an award-winning wine list, delicious food, and Montana ambiance, this local mainstay is the perfect closeto-town getaway. Learn more at grlodge.com
Empower yourself and your loved ones with self-defense and leadership style courses. Learn more at tacticmt.com .
BOZEMAN HOT SPRINGS
Just outside of town, this hot springs facility offers a luxurious spa experience that is perfect for a romantic date or the whole family. Learn more at bozemanhotsprings.co
Known as Bozeman's community art studio, Studio Wheelhouse is an affordable and welcoming space for makers of all kinds to create art and gather together. Choose from their long list of class options or come in for open studio and let your creativity run wild. Learn more at studiowheelhouse.com
A modern esthetics studio offering custom facials, brow and lash services, elite skincare, and more. Book at sagebeautycompany.com.
Take an army truck ride through the backcountry for their Big Sky Yurt Dinner, a cozy feast served in a traditional yurt surrounded by breathtaking views. Learn more and book at bigskyyurt.com
Based out of Moonlight basin, this unique opportunity with experienced guides will have you coasting through a winter wonderland, listening to nothing but the swishing of the snow and the pants of happy dogs. Learn more at huskypower.com .
Get out of town for a soak and stay at this popular Paradise Valley hot spot, with perfect mountain views and activities for the whole family. Book now at chicohotsprings.com
EMBRACE THE SEASON WITH THESE HOLIDAY PARTY TIPS AND TRICKS.
ARTICLE BY SYDNEY KATE LEWIS
Just like that, it’s officially the most wonderful time of the year. And while you may still be stuffed from all the turkey, it’s time to start planning the ultimate holiday party. I’ve included some tips and tricks to make sure it is the absolute best time for your guests.
SETTING THE ATMOSPHERE IS CRUCIAL.
The mood is subjective to the type of party you’re having, though. This could include a tree in the corner, an advent wreath on the table, a menorah on the counter, or other decor aligning with your celebration. Either way, I personally recommend lighting a fire in the fireplace or playing a looping video of one on your television to create a festive and cozy ambiance.
HOLIDAY GAMES ACT AS ENGAGING ENTERTAINMENT.
I once played a game where little trinkets from the Dollar Tree were wrapped in a massive ball of plastic wrap, and guests had 30 seconds to unwrap as much as possible before passing it to the next guest, claiming the unwrapped trinkets as their prize. It definitely gets the adrenaline up and provokes quite a few laughs at the random items wrapped inside.
03
Whether a simple apple dip (8 oz cream cheese, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup toffee bits served with apple slices) or a festive drink, such as a cranberry Moscow Mule (2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, ginger beer, and fresh cranberries with a sprig of rosemary for garnish), serving holiday-themed food and drinks amplifies the atmosphere.
THE PLAYLIST IS, IN MY OPINION, THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF ANY HOLIDAY PARTY.
04 FOOD AND DRINKS PLAY A MASSIVE ROLE IN THE HOLIDAY PARTY SCENE.
While everyone is mingling, it is crucial to have some festive background noise. And, while the classics are well, classic, here are my go-to, more modern song choices for some great holiday fun!
• “Christmas Isn’t Cancelled (Just You)” - by Kelly Clarkson
• “Drummer Boy” - by Justin Bieber
• “Fancy Like Christmas” - by Walker Hayes
• “Hot Chocolate” - by Tom Hanks (From the Polar Express soundtrack)
• “It’s Not Christmas Till Somebody Cries” - by Carly Rae Jepsen
• “Naughty List” - Liam Payne featuring Dixie
• “Redneck 12 Days of Christmas” - by Jeff Foxworthy
• “Stretchy Pants” - by Carrie Underwood
• “Text Me Merry Christmas” - by Straight No Chaser featuring Kristen Bell
• “The Chanukah Song” - by Adam Sandler
Now go create your own, special playlist, pour yourself a mug of eggnog, and dance the night away!
DECEMBER 4TH, 7TH, AND 11TH
Bending Towards the Light … A Jazz Nativity
Hope Lutheran Church, 2152 W Graf St, Bozeman, MT | 4:00 PM
Performed by the top musicians, singers and dancers of the Montana community, "Bending Towards the Light … A Jazz Nativity" is the traditional story told in a thoroughly fresh way, through the medium of jazz. 12/4 at 7pm, 12/7 at 4pm and 12/11 at 7pm.
Tickets available at www.jazznativity.org/bozeman
DECEMBER 5TH
Holiday Noir
Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture, 111 S Grand Ave, Bozeman, MT, 59715 | 7:30 PM
With a cast of over 60 local artists, this holiday variety show thrives on individuality and creative expression from all types of performers. It’s part comedy, part cabaret, and all heart; a fully immersive experience designed to entertain and electrify in equal measure. So hitch up your reindeer, cause it’s time to sleigh! Tickets at www.eventbrite.com/cc/holiday-noir-2025-4630593
DECEMBER 6TH
45th Annual Christmas Stroll
Downtown Bozeman | 4:30 PM
Be a part of Downtown Bozeman's greatest holiday tradition - the Christmas Stroll. Starting at 4:30 PM, Santa Claus will work his way down Main Street, singing Christmas carols and lighting the downtown holidays lights with festive friends in tow. Bring the whole family down to enjoy merry activities and traditional holiday treats until 7:30 PM.
TIME SLEIGH RIDES AT GALLATIN RIVER LODGE IN BEAUTIFUL BOZEMAN, MONTANA
This December, bundle up and enjoy a magical ride around the property in a horse-drawn sleigh, complete with the jingle of bells. Winter weather can be unpredictable in Montana, but don’t worry—the sleigh converts to a wagon if the snow is light, so the rides goes on!
SELECT SATURDAYS AND & SUNDAYS BEFORE CHRISTMAS December 7th • December 13 & 14 • December 20 & 21 Special New Year’s Eve Ride: Wednesday, December 31 (406) 388-0148 GRLODGE.COM
DECEMBER 6TH
Santa Run for Education 5k
Willson Auditorium, 404 W Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715 | 9:00 AM
Dress up in your jolliest red & green, and join the Bozeman Schools Foundation for the 11th Annual Santa Run. Walk, jog, or run this 5k for cash prizes and a good cause.
DECEMBER 12TH
Winter Art Walk 2025
Downtown Bozeman | 6:00 PM
The Downtown Bozeman Association and participating businesses invite you to a special “Winter” Art Walk in December from 6-8 PM. Many shops will feature local artists and often provide hors d’oeuvres and complimentary refreshments. This is a wonderful chance to stroll Downtown Bozeman, take in some art and culture, and knock out some holiday shopping!
DECEMBER 21ST
Santa at Sage Lodge
Sage Lodge, 55 Sage Lodge Dr, Pray, MT 59065 | 9:00 AM
Celebrate the magic of the season with Santa at Sage Lodge! Don your holiday best and bring your camera (or cell phone) for photos with Santa. Afterward, pop on over to the Fireside Room for brunch paired with bottomless mimosas and the snow-capped views of Emigrant Peak.
