Madison Long
Staff Writer
We stuffed ourselves with turkey, relaxed on family couches, and finally took a break from homework. There’s only two weeks left of school, and everyone is itching to be released for Christmas break. Before we go, how can students who might be staying over the break do some holiday celebrations without spending a lot of money?
December 14
Teton Honda is hosting their second annual free Christmas Carnival. From 1 to 4 p.m., enjoy carnival games, cookie decorating stations, a hot chocolate bar, and pictures with Santa and Olaf. For those driving, it’s about 15 minutes away from campus, at 1921 Hurley Drive.
The Pocatello Elk’s Lodge is also hosting a carnival from noon to 4 p.m. Head to Santa’s Winter Wonderland to compete in a free ugly sweater contest, decorate cookies, and explore their holiday market.
Celebrate the ISU African Student Association’s rich cultural heritage with traditional African dishes and heartfelt Christmas stories from 6 to 8 p.m. Head to the Wood River room of the Pond Student Union Building!
Join the Pocatello Elk’s Lodge $5 Krampus party to learn about European tradition and century-old folklore. Krampus, the “Naughty” list handler, will even stop by for pictures! Dress up, grab vintage Krampus greeting cards, eat, and enjoy the music.
December 21
Support the local businesses with their handmade gifts and delicious treats to celebrate the holidays at the Portneuf Valley Farmers Market Christmas Market. Find them at 1800 Garrett Way from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
If you want some more glitter, glitz, and glamor in your holiday celebrations, drive to the Red Lion Hotel to watch the Little Miss Christmas Beauty Pageant! At 10 a.m., these young girls will be competing for the Christmas crown as they showcase their beauty, talent, and Christmas spirit! Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online.
Anyone celebrating Yule can join the Ray of Hope Reiki’s free event at 5 p.m., where they will be reciting the sacred prayers, dancing around a fire, and praising the elements and blessings of Yule. Come bundled with a lawn chair to 12643 W Tyhee Rd, Pocatello!
More Events
Another annual tradition is the Christmas Lights Hayride Tour, with this year’s special guest, Roscoe, the big, friendly rescue goat. Spend 15 minutes exploring the light displays on the East Side of Pocatello while singing along to your favorite Christmas tunes. The cost is only five dollars per person. Make sure to meet at the corner of Hiskey and Butte near Gate City Elementary from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. any day from December 20 to December 24.
For those celebrating Hanukkah, the Idaho Falls Shilo Inn will be hosting a free, public menorah lighting. There will be music, treats, latkes, and donuts. Head up on December 25 at 5:30 p.m. for this annual event! Although it is free, please register at Jewishidaho.com/IFChanukah.
If you’re looking for some more relaxed events, look for the various times and dates of Cookies and Cocoa with Santa, Coffee, Cocoa, and Crafts at the Chubbuck Starbucks location, or Donuts with the Grinch at the Red Lion Hotel!
Remember to stay bundled up for the season, stay close to your friends, and celebrate the good times you have at college. Check out some of these amazing budget-friendly community events and relax this winter break!
For more information, directions, and tickets, see here:
Christmas Events in Pocatello 2024
