Good morning, Kalispell.

Today in Columbia Falls, the 40th Night of Lights Parade will start at 6 p.m. with floats lining up at 5 p.m. and judging at 5:30 p.m. Sponsored by the Lions Club, registration is $15 or a donation to the Food Bank (forms are online and around town).

A cow elk was shot and left on private land 2 miles south of Polebridge near North Fork Road early Monday; state wildlife officials are asking anyone with details to call Game Warden McKenzie Clark at 406+249+6231.

Flathead Avalanche began posting daily forecasts on Dec.

2 covering 1.2 million acres across the Whitefish, Flathead and Swan ranges (and parts of Glacier National Park). The forecasts use the avalanche danger scale and field reports to help backcountry travelers plan safe trips.

Nearly 60 primary care providers at Logan Health clinics in Kalispell filed a petition with the National Labor Relations Board to form a union amid ongoing staffing challenges and heavy workloads.

Logan Health responded by planning to hire 10 full-time employees by Jan. 15, 2026 to address these concerns.

A new workforce housing complex funded by an $8.3 million grant will begin construction in April with completion set for 2027.

Developers Mach LLC and TE Miller are building 24 affordable units at 40 Appleway Drive for locals earning 50 to 60% of area median income.

Whitefish Mountain Resort opened yesterday with over two feet of snow at the summit as skiers and snowboarders welcomed improved conditions following December storms that eased November concerns.

Handel's Messiah

3-9 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — Ticket required — Experience the timeless beauty of Handel’s Messiah performed by the Glacier Symphony Orchestra and Chorale.

Elegant Holiday Dinner Experience

5-9 p.m. — Arts & Technology Building — $225 per person — Celebrate the season with an exquisite à la carte dinner showcasing culinary student artistry.

The Nutcracker Performance

2:00 – 3:30 PM — McClaren Hall, Wachholz College Center — Get Tickets — Experience the magic of live orchestral music with the Glacier Symphony Orchestra and the San Diego Ballet Company.

Christmas Celebration with Wai Mizutani

7-9 p.m. — McClaren Hall, Wachholz College Center — Check for entry fees — Celebrate the Christmas season with music and dance performances from Wai Mizutani and local talents.

New Year's Eve Dueling Pianos

6:30 PM - 12:30 AM — Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell — Dinner included — Experience an interactive night of music where two pianists compete and collaborate for your requests while you celebrate the New Year.

Southern Spain

Join us for an incredible journey to Southern Spain! Featuring 8 nights in a resort on the Mediterranean!