Prepping for the Holidays in Salmon, Idaho

Here we are in the last weeks before winter descends, and the recent time change has rearranged a crucial hour of evening daylight. For me, November is a month of planning and preparing my home and mindset for the coming holidays and winter months in general. For my household, this means stocking the woodpile, the freezer, and the wine cellar. For my mindset, it mostly just means preparing to watch the sunset before 6:00 PM for the next three months. November brings several exciting events to Salmon that will help prolong the looming onset of cabin fever.

Paulettes Crafts

November brings the beginning of the holiday frenzy. Whatever you celebrate, there are several opportunities to get out and participate in some spirited winter gatherings. After the complications of last winter caused several cancellations, I’m sure Salmonites are more than ready to enjoy some of the events that have come to define early Salmon winters.

One of my favorite ways to get in the winter spirit is a trip to Paulette’s to check out the magical winter scenes Dylan has created. Whether you’re looking for gifts, decorations, or crafting supplies, Paulette’s has you covered. Make sure to check out the Winter Wonderland open house on November 19th starting at 5:00 PM. 

Annual Holiday Marketplace at the Elks’ Lodge: 11/19 - 11/20

Next, head over to the Elks’ Lodge for the annual Holiday Marketplace on November 19 and 20. There will be multiple vendors present offering holiday decorations, gifts, and crafts. If you miss the Marketplace, make sure to check out the annual cheerleaders’ Holiday Bazaar on November 27, from 9:00-3:00, at the high school gym. The event will feature food, gifts, and carnival games!

Despite all this talk of preparation, I know that sometimes the best preparation is that done by somebody else. This is where Twin Peaks Guest Ranch comes in—let them do the cooking for Thanksgiving this year. The newly renovated lodge is located 20 miles south of Salmon, and they are hosting their third annual Thanksgiving dinner in the restaurant. Go up for the afternoon, or reserve a cabin and relax for the entire weekend.

Parade of Lights in Salmon

Wherever you have your Thanksgiving dinner, be sure to rest up for Friday. The Parade of Lights is back this year, starting at 6:00 PM on Friday, November 27. Adding to the festive atmosphere, local businesses will hold extended hours so you can dip in to browse and knock out some of your holiday gift list.

Whatever the arrival of winter means to you, I hope you have all you need to celebrate and find time to relax. If you’re still out there preparing, I understand because I think I might be chopping wood for the foreseeable future. Make sure to wave when you pass me on the ridge road.

For information on Twin Peaks and other lodging options in Salmon Valley go to www.visitsalmonvalley.com