Since 1999, the Downtown Holiday Window Decorating Contest has played a part in bringing beauty, light and joy to Downtown Missoula. All can vote for their favorites either online or by paper ballot. New this year, public voting ha been extended for three weeks. Voting began Friday, Dec. 6 and will end Friday, Dec. 27. The winners will be announced New Years Eve. Paper ballots can be picked up at participating businesses and returned to the MSO Hub (140 N. Higgins), Noteworthy Paper & Press (219 S 3rd) or the Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce (825 E. Front). Voting can also be found online.
All Missoulians are encouraged to view and vote for their favorite holiday windows throughout Downtown Missoula. For those who enjoy the holidays, the Downtown Holiday Window Decorating Contest showcases the most beautifully-decorated and unique window displays throughout the year.
To coincide with the 2019 Parade of Lights, this year’s theme was “Lights Around the World”. The contest is open to all businesses located in Downtown Missoula. Holiday Displays can include light displays on the entire building, and/or window decorations.
Prizes will be awarded to the three businesses with the most votes. Last year La Stella Blue claimed Best Overall, while The Roxy Theater and Berkshire Hathaway claimed Most Festive and Best Use of Small Space, respectively. A&E was the Kids Choice, while Noteworthy Paper & Press won Most Elegant.
Businesses participating in the 2019 contest include:
The Artists’ Shop (127 N Higgins)
A&E (222 N Higgins)
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Montana Properties (314 N Higgins)
Betty’s Divine (509 S Higgins)
Butterfly Herbs (232 N Higgins)
Fact & Fiction (220 N Higgins)
Frame of Mind (1706 Brooks)
Hazel & Fawn (612 S Higgins)
Jeannette Rankin Peace Center and The Olive Branch (519 S Higgins)
Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce (825 E Front)
The Montana Scene (170 E Front)
Mood Boutique (208 N Higgins)
Noteworthy Paper & Press (219 S 3rd)
In addition to the beautifully-decorated windows, Downtown Missoula continues to offer the gift of choice: Downtown Gift Cards. Accepted at 200 local businesses, Downtown Gift Cards are the perfect gift for all ages and can be purchased at the Downtown Missoula Partnership (218 E. Main), the MSO Hub (140 N. Higgins), or online. Last year, the DMP sold over 7,700 cards valued at nearly $330,000, an increase of 14% from the previous year. The only multi-merchant program available in Missoula, Downtown Gift Cards are truly Missoula’s Gift Cards.
The 20th Annual Festival of Trees is currently taking place at Stockman Bank at 321 W Broadway. The 10-day festival features events and activities for all ages, including a public display of over 30 beautifully-decorated trees, wreaths and holiday items. The top floor of Stockman Bank has been transformed into an enchanted forest. Everyone is encouraged to stroll through the Tour of Trees overlooking the city of Missoula. New this year admission is FREE and the tour includes a fun scavenger hunt.
On Sunday, Dec. 15, the Festival of Trees will feature two Teddy Bear Teas. This popular children’s event includes visits with Santa Claus, crafting, treats and “tea”. The Teddy Bear Teas are at 10 am and 12 noon. The cost is $5 per person, and reservations are required.
Adults are encouraged to celebrate the holidays at the final Merry Mimosa Brunches on December 14. Starting at 10 am this event will feature mimosas and a delicious brunch provided by A Moveable Feast in a gorgeous holiday setting. The cost is $25 per person, and reservations are required.
Reservations are required for the Teddy Bear Teas, Mimosa Brunch, and can be made online at or by phone at 406-543-4238. The daily Tour of Trees does not require reservations. For more information on each event www.missouladowntown.com/festival-of-trees/.